How to Avoid Exhaustion in the Job Search Process

“The job hunt is exhausting. I felt energetic during the first few weeks. Now I hate applying.”

This is common feedback I hear from candidates who have been discouraged by the job search process.

I wish I could tell you that there is a magic formula for finding a job, but the truth is that the job search process has problems that create headaches for job seekers. Maybe you have experienced some or all of these before:

• Not hearing back from interviews

• Being misled about something (such as the compensation)

• Having interviews postponed or moved

The unfortunate reality is that these problems are likely not going to go away anytime soon. As a recruiter, I am doing everything I can to avoid giving headaches to candidates I work with. But I cannot change the minds of every hiring authority out there and how they operate.

For job seekers, the best thing I can advise is developing a system for applying to jobs. If you create a short list of To-Do items, you can help push yourself past the bad days.

So what does that system look like?

It is essentially a checklist. I know, not that exciting. However, a checklist will help you avoid the big picture scary thoughts like, “I have been looking for 2 months and I still have not found a job.” That is a scary thought that you do not want to clutter your thinking or judgement.

With a checklist, you can say, “I know I am scared about this job search process. But I have a plan. And all I must do is follow the plan, and the interviews will roll in.”

If you don’t have a checklist (a plan) that you are following, I suggest you make one. If you need help on a basic outline, check out our recommended list below:

Every Day:

1. Apply to at least 1 job. LinkedIn’s Easy Apply is a good way to increase this number.

2. Try new search criteria in job searches. LinkedIn has many options in their search filters.

3. Follow and connect with recruiters or recruitment agencies who hire in cities you are looking for work.

Every Week:

1. Follow-up with hiring managers regarding past applications or interviews.

2. Research and practice at least 1 new interview skill.

3. Reach out to friends and acquaintances to see if their company or a friend’s company is hiring.

Every Month:

1. Review your resume. What can be improved?

2. Review your LinkedIn profile. Are there critical skills missing from your page?

3. Review your applications, interviews, or communications. What could you improve?

As always, please feel free to reach out to me if you have any job search or career questions.

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