Do you ever feel like you’ve been at your job search for too long? It can be frustrating to feel like you’re spinning your wheels and not knowing if your hard work will pay off. But before you decide to throw in the towel, it is important to understand exactly how long is too long and what you can do to improve your search. Looking for a job is a full-time job, so here are some things to consider:
- While you’re in college.
Of course, your goal once you graduate is to be able to get a job in your chosen field. So how soon should you start looking? Experts suggest that you need to work on your job search for about 10-20 hours a week in your last semester of college. Take this time to make connections in your industry, talk to your mentor, and narrow down the types of roles and companies you’re most interested in. This can help you talk to the right people and target your job search so you are more successful and, hopefully, can land a job once you graduate. - While you’re still employed.
If you are still employed but looking for something new, you need to be more careful about how you’re spending your time searching. Looking for a job while you are at work can not only cause big problems for you but for your employer. Instead, focus your time after work hours on connecting with new employers. Schedule interviews on days you’re not working so you don’t tip off your current employer. And never utilize office equipment to facilitate your search. - If you’re recently unemployed.
When you’re unemployed, the job search feels more urgent. Experts suggest that you spend 30-40 hours a week searching for a job. Focus on the search as if it were your actual job. Dress appropriately so you can spring into action at any time. Increased your networking opportunities, connect with others on social media, and customize your resume for each job. If you’re not having luck with these methods, take some time away to reconsider what you really want. - Take time for yourself.
In any and all of these cases, there comes a time when you need to set the search aside and focus on yourself. When you’re burned out from the job search, you’re not presenting yourself in the most positive way. Take a break. Don’t worry, the job search will still be there when you come back and you’ll be refreshed in a way that can help you look at it from a new angle.
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