167
How do you stay motivated?
Hi All! I am new to the group and happy to be here. I hope everyone is staying safe.
I was laid off from my job in early April and have been spending a lot of time and effort on my job search since. I have sent A LOT of resumes and haven't heard back from most. I am grateful that I've scored a few interviews so far. (Two I'm waiting to hear back from and I have another tomorrow.) Some days I feel frustrated and unmotivated to continue to apply for jobs. What do you ladies do to keep your motivation up for the long-term job search. (For example: I made myself a rule that I need to send out at least one job application/resume a day, M-F, and I'm taking some online courses to build skills I am lacking.)
Thank you in advance for your recommendations!!
Danielle Peterson, MBABrand Marketing Professional
167
05/14/20 at 3:04PM UTC
Thank you for your response! I like your schedule. It seems doable to chunk it out like that. I have more or less been following a similar schedule, but feel the need to mix it up a bit. Following the same routine over a long period feels stagnant to me. I just took on a pro bono client so I plan to work that into my daily schedule for a couple hours a day as well. Best of luck in your job search if you are also seeking employment right now!!
Rebeca EvantashStrategic integrated marketing leader
225
05/14/20 at 2:41PM UTC
As hard as it is, create a routine and stick to it. I have found that I was spending way too much time applying and not enough networking, reaching out to executive recruiters and upskilling.
Someone posted this schedule on Linkedin (sorry I can't link to the post). I think it's pretty intense, but there's some nuggets of good ideas:
1. Wake up/ breakfast
2. 30-60 minutes exercise/shower/breakfast
3. Go to a designated workspace at home.
4. 90 minutes Resume and LinkedIn Profile improvement, or keyword tailoring for online job applications (ATS).
5. 1 hour of LinkedIn activity to
enhance visibility (like, comment, share, like comments of others in a meaningful way).
6. 1 hour lunch break/ family time.
7. 2 hours job search via LinkedIn Jobs,
Indeed, and other job sites.
8. 1 hour skills improvement via LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, Udemy and other online courses.
9. 30 minute walk complying with social distancing, lockdown and curfews.
10. 1 hour interview prep: writing responses to sample competency-based interview questions, transferable skills identification, and C.A.R.L. technique.
11. 30-60 minutes of LinkedIn activity
and online networking.
End of Job Seeking “Work” Day!
Elissa UntonFinance, MBA, Founder. LongLA
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05/16/20 at 3:46PM UTC
I like that your schedule includes exercise and learning new skills and networking! We usually recommend 6-8 high-quality hours a week for our job-seeking clients, all in -- including conversations and research. More than that starts to be an energy drain > and makes it really hard to bring your best self to new conversations.
Anonymous
05/13/20 at 5:38PM UTC
Hi Danielle-- We're in the exact same boat. I was laid during my maternity leave. But applying for a job while taking care of an infant feels impossible and that's sapping my motivation.
I'm taking solace in the fact that about half of the workforce is unemployed and struggling to find another position. Everyone is fighting their own battle! We're not alone.
I'm focusing on jobs where I have a personal connection at the company (LinkedIn!) to help elevate my resume above the others.
Danielle Peterson, MBABrand Marketing Professional
167
05/13/20 at 6:23PM UTC
Thank you for your response. I am sorry you were laid off too, but you're right in that we are not alone in that. (I didn't think it was legal for companies to lay workers off while they were on maternity leave - but that's just my impression, not based on legal research.) Enjoy this time with your little one! It's a special time you won't be able to get back. Also, best of luck in your job search. The right one will come your way!!
Natalie RobinsonINNOVATIVE GLOBAL HUMAN RESOURCES LEADER
20
05/13/20 at 1:47AM UTC
Continue to do what you are doing with the search and skill development. I would also add that you join professional networks and volunteer your expertise with a few organizations to keep yourself "fresh" until you land your next opportunity. Good luck on your search!
Danielle Peterson, MBABrand Marketing Professional
167
05/13/20 at 6:20PM UTC
Thank you for your response! I did just signed on as a marketing volunteer with a non-profit to keep active and give back while I continue to search.
