How to stay motivated through a rough job search
Adaptation of images from Pixabay CC0
Months and months of going through a job search without results can take a toll on anyone. Not only is this a blow to one’s self-esteem but to one’s finances as well. Many newcomers go through this period and become demotivated, leading some to question the wisdom of their decision to move to Canada.
If you are going through this rough patch, let me tell you that you are not alone. Many people, not only newcomers, have gone through this emotionally draining process. To rise above this phase, here a few things you can do to refresh and renew your strength:
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Take a step back
Take a moment to stop and evaluate the situation. If you have been sending out hundreds of resumes but no calls for interviews, there may be something wrong with your resume or the type of jobs you are applying to. But if you do get invited for interviews but never hear back, then you may need to hone your interview skills. Aside from a generic resume and poor interview skills, other common mistakes are not following up and having no digital presence.
One good way to know exactly where you are stuck is to ask for feedback. Ask friends or family to read your resume and comment. Better yet, call the HR personnel of the company you applied to and ask how you may improve. This practice is common in Canada, so don’t be afraid. The insight that you will be getting may just be the key to your success.
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Relax
Give yourself some time to relax. Exercise, meditate, walk in the park, or do whatever activity that calms you down and makes you happy. Allow yourself to do the things you love and don’t focus on negativity. Getting yourself re-energized is necessary to enable you to convey your passion about work when you resume your job search.
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Don’t take it personally
There are many factors outside of yourself that go into getting a job. It can be the current demand, the state of the economy, your timing. Rejection is hard, but not getting the job does not necessarily mean that you are not qualified. Also, as a newcomer, you are just starting to learn the ropes in this totally new job market. Give yourself time to learn.
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Go about your search strategically
If you haven’t yet, explore many other ways to get job leads. Instead of focusing on online job postings, why not try informational interviews? Informational interviews, like networking and volunteering may not get you a job right away but they are efficient ways of getting out there and having a feel of the market. These help you become a more proactive job seeker. Read the article Surefire ways of finding a job in Manitoba to learn more about these approaches.
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Explore outside help
There is no shame in asking for help. There are many free employment support services available to newcomers to Canada. Manitoba Start, aside from providing skills workshops, also offers job coaching and job matching services. You can also ask for help from Manitoba Jobs and Skills Development Centres all over Manitoba. Your nearest Immigrant Serving Organization can also provide assistance like Success Skills Centre.
English Online has a Career e-mentor program which connects you to a professional in your field. Through 10 sessions over Skype, you and your e-mentor can discuss things like how to get your foot in the door, networking, and other ins and outs of your profession.
Community Resources
Success Skills Centre is another organization that provides support services for internationally-trained professionals and highly skilled workers.
Why work free? The value of volunteering and 5 best places to volunteer in Manitoba to know more about volunteering.
Want to learn how social media can help you in your job search? Read Social media basics and 3 ways a good digital presence can get you a job.