How to stay positive during your job search

A positive mental attitude can support success and happiness in many areas of life, and I believe a constructive outlook is helpful when searching for a job.

But staying positive is not always easy. It can be particularly challenging if you have lost your job through no fault of your own. Busy recruiters and potential employers can also be brusque or unthinking in the way they manage their part of the recruitment process.

Making room for understandable disappointment while maintaining hope may help you stay engaged until the right opportunity comes along.

An essential part of searching for work today is being ready to learn and adapt. How people find jobs changes over time. For example, many recruiters use professional networking sites such as LinkedIn to find candidates.

Do some research to understand how people are being recruited in your chosen sector. You can also use organisations’ websites, industry publications and online platforms to research employers and the skills they need. Where possible, see this as an interesting challenge rather than another barrier.

Here are my tips for staying positive during your job search

1. Acknowledge how you feel

First, acknowledge any grief, disappointment or anger you feel about having to look for work. These are not ‘bad’ feelings, and you do not need to pretend they are not there.

However, if bitterness about what happened begins to dominate your job search, consider what might help you process it and focus on the present. Working with a coach or counsellor may help, depending on the kind of support you need.

2. Create a sustainable routine

Treat your job search as an important project. Establish a routine with a regular starting and finishing time, but remember that you do not necessarily need to spend an entire working day applying for jobs.

Organise your time into manageable tasks and include breaks. Looking after your health is also an important part of the process. Take time to go for a walk or move in a way that works for you, eat regularly and get enough rest.

3. Approach opportunities with an open mind

Be prepared to consider a range of suitable opportunities and remain flexible about the work you might explore. A change of direction could be interesting and stimulating.

However, flexibility does not mean ignoring your needs, values, financial circumstances or boundaries. Think about what you are willing to compromise on and what remains essential.

4. Understand and develop your value

Work on understanding the experience, qualities and skills you can offer an employer. If you identify a genuine skills gap, consider whether study, volunteering, professional development or practical experience could help.

You may find free or low-cost learning through platforms such as OpenLearn, edX, FutureLearn and Coursera. Access arrangements and charges for assessments or certificates vary, so check the details before enrolling.

If you don't hold a professional qualification and one would meaningfully improve your prospects, now is a good time to explore your options.

5. Build professional relationships with recruiters

Treat recruiters and potential employers professionally. Read the job description carefully and make it easy for them to understand how your experience relates to what they have requested.

It is not only about pleasing them. Recruitment should also help you decide whether the role and organisation are right for you. Be positive and courteous, but ask questions and pay attention to how you are treated throughout the process.

6. Build and use your network

Network where you can, both in person and online. Learn how to use LinkedIn effectively and keep your profile up to date.

Some opportunities are filled through professional contacts, recommendations or direct approaches before they are widely advertised. Networking can also provide human connection during what may otherwise feel like an isolating process.

Approach networking as a two-way relationship rather than simply asking people for work. Be curious about others, share useful information and let trusted contacts know what kind of opportunity you are seeking. You may be surprised by how willing people are to help when they understand what you need.

A constructive attitude can help you communicate confidently, recover from setbacks and remain open to opportunities. It may also help you stand out from another equally well-qualified candidate.

However, positivity alone cannot guarantee employment, and rejection does not mean that you have failed. Put the points above into action, focus on what you can influence and give yourself credit for continuing with a process that can be demanding.