This article on how to stay inspired during a job search is part of the Coaching Collective series, featuring tips and expertise from Flatiron School Career Coaches. Every Flatiron School graduate is eligible to receive up to 180 days of 1:1 career coaching with one of our professional coaches. This series is a glimpse of the expertise you can access during career coaching at Flatiron School.
Are you tired of your job search routine? Feeling stuck and unmotivated? Have the endless rejections and delays in finding your next opportunity started to affect your outlook? If so, it’s time to re-energize your job search and regain the enthusiasm you had when you first began.
Think back to when you first started applying for jobs. Remember the excitement, optimism, and enthusiasm you had? If those feelings have faded, don’t worry, it’s normal and even expected if the experience is taking longer than expected. But, you don’t have to stay stuck. It’s time to leverage everything you’ve learned up to now and take positive actions to refresh your search.
Why Is Staying Inspired During Your Job Search Important?
Feeling uninspired can affect multiple aspects of your job search.
A lack of inspiration can be reflected in your actions, attitude, creativity, and energy levels. You might start to find yourself going through the motions without genuine enthusiasm. This can affect your progress and prevent you from taking the necessary steps to stand out among other applicants.
It can also affect your ability to think creatively and present yourself in the best light to potential employers. Employers are drawn to candidates who are enthusiastic, passionate, and have innovative thinking, so re-energizing your job search is key to leaving a lasting, positive impression.
How Do You Get Re-Inspired?
While there is no time machine to take you back to the beginning of your job search, there are practical ways to help get your inspiration (and motivation) back. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Remember Your Why
Recall your reasons for pursuing a new career. It’s an opportunity to find your passion, discover your potential, and start a journey that brings excitement, purpose, and a greater sense of fulfillment. It allows you to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and grow, leading to greater happiness and satisfaction in life. Refocus on the deeper reason behind your choice to pursue a new field, and use it to propel you forward.
Talk to people in your target field
Engaging with professionals in your target industry can help reignite your job search. They can provide industry tips, insight, knowledge, and motivation. They may also share job leads, give referrals, and make resume suggestions.
Attend industry events or job fairs
These events gather professionals such as industry leaders, experts, hiring managers, and recruiters all in one place. Use them to gain industry knowledge and stay informed about current trends. There are also opportunities to learn about companies and what they are looking for in candidates, network, discover job leads, and even have on-the-spot interviews.
Find an accountability buddy or create a group
Regular check-ins, whether virtual or in person, can help you stay motivated and accountable for your progress. Job search partners can offer encouragement, help you set goals, and keep you on track through the ups and downs of your search.
Explore different types of jobs
If you’re having trouble finding openings with a specific title, don’t limit yourself to one type of role. Look for adjacent positions that align with your long-term goals, offer growth opportunities, and give you the chance to develop additional skills. These roles can expand your network and help you pivot into your target role.
Engage in hobbies
It’s easy to get entirely sucked into the job search and neglect the other parts of your life. It’s important to make time for things outside of looking for a job, so try scheduling time for activities you enjoy. Hobbies allow you to relax, provide stress relief, and are opportunities to learn new skills. They can also provide a chance to expand your network in a relaxed way and connect with other professionals.
Make time for self-care
Throughout a long job search, it’s critical to take care of your mental and emotional health. Job searching has highs and lows, so it’s important to practice self-care. Find things that rejuvenate you, such as taking walks, spending time with loved ones, or exercising. Incorporating self-care into your job search will improve your focus and productivity.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to stay inspired during a lengthy job search is necessary to maintain the enthusiasm and motivation needed for success. Remember, finding the right opportunity is a process. By taking intentional steps to re-inspire yourself and your search, you can move past challenges, and achieve your career goals.
About Aimee Thompson
Aimee Thompson is an ICF Certified Coach with Flatiron School. Her background is in coaching, human resources, recruiting, and training and development. Her passion is partnering with her clients to help them thrive outside of their comfort zone and create a life they love.
