JON SEARCH: STAY POSITIVE

JOB SEARCH: STAY POSITIVE

Keeping a positive outlook while searching for a new job can be challenging in a bad economy, w here jobs are hard to find. They may not be any openings in your field that are qualified for or that pay well. It is important to remember, however, that maintaining a positive outlook is crucial for success. Your chances of getting hired if you come across as negative or desparate are much lower than if your approach job hunting in a positive way.

Job searching can quickly turn into an all-encompassing activity, taking up your entire day. If you are not actively seeking a new position, then you are worrying over your lack of job and how that may affect you or your family. Take a step back and remove yourself temporarily from the situation. Schedule a few hours each day for looking for work, and spend the rest of the day doing other things. This is also a good time to make some self-improvements. Pick up some new skills that might help you once your career is going again.

Focus on short-term goals. Set daily and weekly goals, and take small steps. Rewrite your resume, make new contacts, and put your name out there. Set up schedule of weekly goals, and stick to it.

Find a strong support system. This may be family, friends, or previous coworkers. The members of your support group should be positive, not people who will give you a hart time about being out of work. These should be people who help you keep a positive outlook while job hunting. Supportive friends can help distract you from the negative aspects of your job hunt.