Tips for Adapting Mindset During a Job Search

Looking for a job can become a full time job. When doing so during this tough job market, it can add additional mental strain. Sharing job search tips can be helpful, but I’d like to take a slightly different approach today. Why? Because maintaining mental strength during challenging times, especially in a tough job market, is crucial. Here are some strategies to help you stay mentally resilient during your #jobsearch: 👉🏿Broaden Your Perspective: Life is a mix of good and tough times, happiness and pain. Remember that setbacks are temporary, and they don’t define your entire life. Try to see the bigger picture and focus on long-term goals. 👉🏿Practice Resilience: Face difficulties head-on. Building resilience involves learning from setbacks and adapting. It’s like a mental workout that strengthens your ability to bounce back. 👉🏿Prioritize Physical Health: Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet contribute to mental well-being. Physical health directly impacts our mental state, so take care of your body. 👉🏿Set Healthy Boundaries: Establish personal boundaries in all aspects of life. Learn to say no when necessary and protect your mental energy. Boundaries help prevent burnout. 👉🏿Build Belief in Yourself: Cultivate self-confidence. See challenges as opportunities for growth rather than threats. Believe in your ability to overcome obstacles. #theBOLDjourney #hiring #opentowork

There's no perfect science to landing a new job. You can do everything right, but too many factors creep in. The only constant that will set you apart from the applicants? Your mindset. It is an area a lot of us don't think about. Resume, LinkedIn profile, Applications, Networking/Referrals - but where during the #jobsearch process were you thinking about *how to stay resilient?* Staying resilient during uncertain times is not only key, it is going to be what gives you the extra fuel to make it over the finish line - even if you don't know WHERE the finish line is! ⚡ Job searching, or even *job stability*, right now is so unknown. We are operating in a place of unpredictability. So here are 5️⃣ ways you can build a mindset of resilience during this time of uncertainty: 1. Focus on what you can control VS. what you cannot control. There are so many decisions made in your career that are not because of you* (Budgets, Internal politics, other candidates, org structure, etc). Be aware of what you can control and focus on those changes. All the rest, is out of your hands. 2. Remain Curious. Every detour in our career right now is an opportunity to learn. What other information can you gather to help you gain more perspective? What have you learned and what can you adjust for the future? 3. Know your strengths...and watch out for your blind spots. There is a fine line between what we're good at and what we WANT to be good at. It takes a lot of awareness and some self assessment (Try the Clifton Strengths Assessment) to understand your lanes. But knowing where your key strength lies is absolutely your superpower in helping you forge ahead. And you need to be clearly aware of blind spots, because they are there. You just can't get lost in giving your weaknesses ALL your energy! 4. Focus on Impact - during a long job search or uncertainty of a job, My advices is to shift away form title and focus on the impact of the role. It is amazing how many people miss out on an opportunity because they are overly focused on the title. YOU are the one to make an impact, not a position. 5. Keep Moving through the mud. Did you know a lotus flower thrives in blooming through mud without stains? 🌸 Yep. And so can you. There's a point where you might give up looking, or might think I will never succeed, but I promise if you keep going, there is going to be a point when you rise. Thats my weeks insights! Happy Friday!

I understand the challenges of job hunting as it's not easy or fun. Yet, there's something that needs to be remembered: The mental and emotional aspects of such journey is as crucial as the practical steps. In the headaches of updating resumes, networking, and attending interviews, it's easy to overlook our mental well-being as that is why thos headaches show up. Here's something to ponder: "The road that is built in hope is more pleasant to the traveler than the road built in despair, even though they both lead to the same destination." This insight reminds us that our attitude and mental state significantly influence our experiences. Embrace hope over despair. It doesn't mean ignoring the difficulties or pretending they don't exist, as they do. Instead, it's about acknowledging the challenges and choosing to approach them with a positive, hopeful mindset. With this approach, you can make the journey more bearable, even enjoyable at times as you start seeing your potential with confidence and what you will not settle for. Job seekers...please remember: 👉 Take Breaks: It's okay to step back for a moment and breathe. Your health matters. 👉 Seek Support: Whether it's friends, family, or professional help, don't be afraid to reach out. 👉 Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Your journey is unique, and your well-being is paramount. Keep hope as your companion, and let it light your path forward. #JobSeeking #MentalHealth # #YouHaveaThePower #YouHaveAPurpose #HereToHelp

If I were job searching right now, I would get rejected. A common misconception in job searching is that you should not be getting rejection emails.But that's simply not true.There are a million reasons why you can get rejected from a job that have NOTHING to do with your qualifications or fit for the role. Here are a few examples: 🏻 The hiring manager decided they were looking for a different skillset. 🏻 The role was put on hold because of budget or hiring freezes. 🏻 They already had a candidate in mind when the job was posted.🏻 They hired an internal candidate for the role. 🏻 You didn't display your direct or transferable skills for the role. 🏻 Your resume was not reviewed. 🏻 The interview process had already started when you applied.The list goes on and on…So this means that rejection can mean NOTHING about you. Even accomplished CEOs get rejected when they apply to be CEOs at other companies. Big well-known celebrities get rejected from acting jobs all the time. Now yes, of course, rejection could mean you applied for a role that was not a fit for you. But more often than not, I find that it is one of the reasons listed above. So if rejection is an inevitability in job searching right now, the question is not “how do you avoid rejection?” The question is, “how will you move through rejection in a way that serves you?” For me and the clients I coach in the Career Clarity Booster, what helps them is always: Mindset work (subconscious reprogramming) 🤝 Nervous system regulation 🧠 When you work on your mindset and reprogram your subconscious beliefs, you start to shift from making rejection MEAN something about you and rather look to what you can LEARN from rejection to help you get what you want. 🧘 When you work on regulating your nervous system and connecting to your body, you shift from feeling that gut-punch to the stomach when you receive a rejection email to calming the body. Instead of falling into a downward spiral and derailing your job search, you stay focused on the outcome and peaceful in the body. Not only does this lead to your job search FEELING better, it allows you to have more sustainable energy in your job search. Rejection while job searching is going to happen (and I know it sucks)But HOW you move through it is inevitably going to serve you better AND get you the results you actually want. Trust that.

Are you resigned or resilient?⁣ ⁣ When it comes to job seeking, your mindset can mean the difference between success and stagnation.⁣ ⁣ The job search can be brutal, and it’s excruciatingly frustrating when it feels like so much is outside of your control.⁣ ⁣ But often, a successful search relies on how you react to challenging moments.⁣ ⁣ So how do you flip the script to empower yourself and make progress?⁣ ⁣ Here are 6 examples of reframing your internal dialogue from resigned to resilient:⁣ ⁣ 1. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “I’ve applied to hundreds of jobs and no one wants me. There’s no point in trying in this competitive market.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “My application-to-interview ratio is low. I need to seek feedback on my resume and my application approach.”⁣ ⁣ 2. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “I was rejected from that job. I must not be qualified enough.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “That opportunity didn’t work out. What other opportunities can I pursue?”⁣ ⁣ 3. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “Networking hasn’t helped me so far. It’s a waste of time.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “Building relationships takes time. I’ll focus on adding value and staying consistent.”⁣ ⁣ 4. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “I don’t have enough experience for the jobs I want.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “I can highlight my transferable skills and seek opportunities to gain relevant experience.”⁣ ⁣ 5. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “I really bombed that interview. I’ll never get the job.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “Each interview is a learning experience. I’ll review my performance and improve.”⁣ ⁣ 6. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝: “I’m stuck in my current job because there are no better opportunities.”⁣ ⁣ ↪️ 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓: “I can develop my skills and explore avenues for growth and advancement.”⁣ ⁣ By shifting your mindset from resigned to resilient, you empower yourself to take control of your job search and move closer to your goals.⁣ ⁣ Remember, resilience is not just about bouncing back, but about moving forward with purpose and confidence.⁣ ⁣ Your next opportunity is just around the corner.⁣ ⁣ ………………………………………………………………⁣ ♻️ Repost & share this with a job seeker who needs to hear it.⁣ ⁣ 🔔 Ring my bell for more real career talk & never miss a thing.⁣ ⁣ #careercoach⁣ #careeradvice⁣ #jobsearch⁣ #careerdevelopment⁣ #EmpoweredByAnne

Have you read "Atomic Habits" by James Clear? It's one of my all-time favorite books, and I've read it multiple times. Each time, I uncover a few new nuggets of information. As I read it the last time, I couldn't help but think about how it applies to job seekers (because helping people find jobs is my passion). Here’s what I've learned: 🔄 1. The Power of Tiny Habits: Clear emphasizes that small daily actions lead to significant changes. Dedicate 30 minutes daily to job hunting activities—whether it's networking on LinkedIn, refining your resume, or researching companies. 📝 2. Create a System, Not Just Goals: Instead of only focusing on getting hired, establish a job search system. Assign specific days for different tasks, like "Networking Mondays" or "Application Wednesdays." This keeps you organized and motivated. 🤝 3. Habit Stacking: Combine job-hunting activities with your existing routines. For example, review job postings while enjoying your morning coffee or send follow-up emails right after your daily workout. This makes the habits easier to maintain. PS, Habit Stacking is one of my favorite tricks. 🔍 4. Focus on Identity: Adopt the identity of a proactive job seeker. Viewing yourself as someone who is consistently improving and growing encourages positive habits and persistent action. 🚀 5. Track Your Progress: Use a habit tracker for your job search activities. Monitoring your daily efforts boosts motivation and provides a clear picture of your dedication. Celebrate small wins, like landing an informational interview or receiving feedback on your resume. If you need a tracker, feel free to reach out. I’ve created one and would happily send it your way. 🌱 6. Continuous Improvement: Always seek ways to enhance your job search strategies. Learn from each application, interview, and networking event. A mindset of continuous improvement keeps you resilient and adaptable. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with the book in the comments! 

Are you burnt out from job searching? From the endless applications and rejections to the rollercoaster of emotions during interviews, it can quickly become overwhelming and draining. I shared some tips to avoid burnout in our #WealthWednesday newsletter a few weeks ago, and I thought I'd bring them to LinkedIn! 1. Set achievable goals for yourself such as submitting a certain number of applications per week or networking with a specific number of industry professionals. In this competitive market, aim to submit 5-10 applications a day and try to reach out to at least 1 person on LinkedIn a week. Progress may vary from week to week, and that's okay! 2. Break the process into smaller, actionable steps to maintain a sense of control and progress. Start by updating your resume, optimizing your LinkedIn, creating a list of target companies, and scheduling coffee chats. Focus on one step at a time and celebrate each milestone you achieve. 3. Establish a routine and maintain work-life balance. Allocate specific hours for job searching, networking, and personal time. Set boundaries to ensure you're not spending every waking moment on job-related activities. Make time for hobbies, exercise, relaxation, and spending quality time with loved ones. 4. Practice self-care and make time for movement. Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as meditation, yoga, or reading. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce stress and contribute to your overall well-being. Make sure you get enough sleep and take breaks from social media to recharge. And most important, be compassionate with yourself and shift your mindset from “I’m not doing enough” to “I’m doing the best I can.” 5. Seek support from your network. Letting people know about roadblocks in your job search can be humbling, but don't underestimate the power of your personal and professional network. Reach out to mentors, friends, and family for emotional support. Share your concerns, frustrations, and successes with trusted individuals who can provide encouragement and advice. Consider joining Facebook groups or online communities where you can connect with others going through similar experiences. 6. Mentally prepare and manifest for your dream job. The job search process is emotional and comes with plenty of ups and downs. Prepare yourself to handle rejection and setbacks by developing strategies to bounce back and maintain a positive mindset. Also, manifest your ideal job by envisioning the position you want and setting your non-negotiables. Stay true to your goals and values, and the right opportunity will come in due time. Remember, job searching can be a challenging journey, but it's crucial to remember that you are not alone in this process. Keep pushing forward, stay focused on your goals, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your dream job. Wishing you all the success in your job search journey! 🖤

Regardless of whether you're happily employed or looking for your next job, consider adopting a "marketer mindset" that's anchored in this truth: You're a business (employee) who sells a service (your work) to a customer (an employer) in exchange for compensation (salary and/or benefits). With that mindset, think about what your website landing page would look like. What would be the short, clear and compelling headline that would explain to a visitor, in 5 seconds, what value they would get from working with you? For example, if I was a designer, it might be something like "I design high-converting, high-engagement user experiences for startups in record time." Then think about the 3 big supporting pillars of that value proposition. In the above example, that might be something like: 1. Data driven: I deploy rapid, iterative testing to find the best design approach 2. Results orientation: My designs don't just look great, they deliver outcomes 3. Lightning fast: I deliver designs on or before the deadline Then think about how you would back up these claims with: 1. Examples from your work history 2. Proactive testimonials from past employers With this framework, you'll be empowered to do a few things: 1. Be ready at any time to communicate your value to a prospective customer (employer) 2. Proactively share content that relates to your value prop 3. Leave a lasting impression in interviews and follow up If the recent layoff waves have taught us anything, it's that you need to manage your career like a business of one. #marketermindset #interviewing #jobhunt #opentowork #jobinterviews #jobinterviewtips #jobinterviewprep #job2024 #interviews #interviewpreparation #jobseekers #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #jobsearchhelp

Maintaining patience during a job search can be challenging but here are some tips: 1. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that job searching takes time, and it's normal to face rejections. Set realistic goals to avoid unnecessary stress. 2. Establish a Routine: Create a daily routine that includes job searching, networking, and personal activities. This structure can help you stay focused and maintain a sense of purpose. 3. Diversify Your Search: Explore various job sources, industries, and roles. Expanding your options can increase the chances of finding a suitable opportunity. 4. Stay Positive: Celebrate small victories, stay optimistic, and focus on your achievements. Positive thinking can boost your resilience during the job search. 5. Seek Support: Connect with friends, family, or mentors. Sharing your experiences and receiving encouragement can provide emotional support and valuable insights. 6. Skill Development: Use the time to enhance your skills or learn new ones. This not only adds value to your resume but also keeps you engaged and motivated. 7. Stay Active: Physical activity can help manage stress. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to maintain a healthy mindset. 8. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to manage stress. This can include deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Remember, it's normal to face challenges during a job search, and your perseverance will pay off in the end.

Tips for your second academic job search. Recently, a senior scholar asked me for job search advice. While my friend had coached Ph.D. students on a first job search, they asked, given I had moved, what should they expect on their own search? A conversation followed about expectations, mindset, & negotiating. Three takeaways: Discretion, positive thinking, & confidence. Takeaway One: Show discretion. First, your university will not be delighted about your search. Administrators have difficulty sharing information or planning projects with faculty who may leave. Second, rumors of your departure will cause turmoil. Your search will become a talking point among your colleagues - for better or worse. Third, staying could cause reprisals. Administrators & colleagues will remember your attempt to leave, leading to outcomes such as skepticism about your motives or reluctance to invest in you. So, only tell your references about your search. The less you share, the less likely the news of your search will get out & the more likely you will have a pleasant stay (however long that lasts) at your current school. Takeaway Two: Build a positive mindset. First, find positives about your current job. Your search will take time. Focusing on positives will make it easier to navigate your current workplace. Second, underscore reasons that draw you to a new position. Emphasize positives, like curriculum, research opportunities, or location. Future colleagues want to know you are attracted to their school. Third, let go of the negatives.  Your new school will not have the same problems. Letting go helps you make unclouded decisions and makes it easier to fit in at a new place. Schools want to hire faculty that bring positive energy! Takeaway Three: Negotiate with confidence. First, you have a job. You don't have to take the offer. Ask yourself, does this job really afford the promised opportunities? At work? & in life? If the answer is no, don't go. Second, you have power. Take your time deciding. Rookies usually are under pressure to decide quickly. Mid-career faculty can ask for more time. Don't be afraid of asking for time to think an opportunity through. Third, you deserve a good offer. If you take a low offer, you will be unhappy. Take your time to learn what peer schools offer & demand a comparable one! Don't join a place that undervalues you. A final thought, before you apply, ask yourself, will you take an offer? If your answer is no, don't look. There is no rush. Take your time. I am confident that you will find the right job! Best of luck in the new year! A postscript: I would be remiss if I did not mention that your negotiation should focus on the nine-month salary. With a new dean, summer support, teaching load, & more can change. Salary does not. Maximize it. You don't get to #negotiate twice. #mentoring