Navigating the uncertainty of job hunting.

Anonymous

September 26,2022 at 5:11AM UTC

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Navigating the uncertainty of job hunting.

It is 15 months that I have been job hunting unsuccessfully. Age and financial issues are not exactly on my side and I feel pressured by this. I find I am in limbo, I cannot make plans as I have to stretch my finances for, and this is the challenge, an unknown length of time.

What are tactics that you use to see yourselves through these very, very uncertain times?

Really need some positivity to keep myself positive through this mentally trying phase of my life.

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AnonymousSeptember 26,2022 at 11:07AM UTC
I also had an extended period of unemployment/ job search that lasted 18 months.
One of my saving graces was to get a part time job. It allowed me to extend my severance package and alleviated some of the financial pressure of being unemployed.
My part time job was waitressing and bartending, totally outside my professional field of government relations! I initially had concerns that I’d see people I knew…or be embarrassed running into colleagues but it turned out that waitressing and bartending provided great networking opportunities!
I know what a challenging time this can be, best of luck with your search.
AnonymousSeptember 26,2022 at 2:56PM UTC
Thank you for the feedback. Yes, I will look into some part-time work as it will help with the mental and financial anxiety.
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterSeptember 26,2022 at 4:44PM UTC
I would like to reframe your question: "What do I need to do to shift my mindset so I can conduct a successful job search?"
Here's my point: UNTIL you shift your mindset, you will continue to see dismal results because of the energy you are bringing into your job search. As I told a client just last week, please STOP job searching and focus your energy for a brief time on your mindset - otherwise, you are wasting your time.
Is HAS to start with your mindset. If you try to change your job search strategy (which I strongly suspect you need to do) before shifting your mindset, you won't be in alignment. You might try new job search tactics, but with the same energy that has failed you for so long.
Holly NunnallySeptember 26,2022 at 4:45PM UTC
My first thought was to ask if you have had a professional resume writer go through your resume. Sometimes they can advise a few tweaks that can really make a difference.
Do you exercise? I've found that when I am in a highly stressed state, walking or running really help. Walking is easy and can be done anywhere, with no special clothing/equipment. Some days when the weather is crappy, I do laps around my living room. Getting outside is better, but it works in a pinch.