Ask a Career Advisor: How Can I Stay Motivated in My Job Search?

Searching for a new job is exhausting. If it’s going well, your head may be spinning from scheduling interviews and comparing multiple job offers. On the other hand, if you’re not hearing back after applying, getting rejection emails, or narrowly missing out after several rounds of interviews, it can be a challenge to stay motivated during your job search.

We asked Career Advisor Lori Cole, a source of inspiration for many of us here at iHire ourselves, for her tips on finding the motivation to apply to jobs and keep your search going.

How to Stay Motivated During Your Job Search

Remember Your “Why”

“If you’ve hit a dead-end in your job search and feel like giving up, remember why you’re looking for a new job in the first place,” said Cole. “For example, a new job could mean you get to relocate to your dream location, better support your family, or escape a toxic work environment.”

If you find yourself stuck in the motions and lacking purpose, recenter yourself on why you’re making a career move. If you’re not sure what your “why” is, check out our workbook for finding career clarity – an understanding of what you need in your next job to find meaning and fulfillment.

Set SMART Goals

You may feel defeated and frustrated with job hunting because you’ve set unrealistic or unspecific goals. SMART goals, which can be used for just about any endeavor, can help.

“SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound,” Cole explained. “For example, as a job seeker, you could set a SMART goal to apply to five jobs every week or dedicate one hour per day to your search. On the other hand, getting a job in one week is not a SMART goal. While that would be amazing, it’s not realistic or achievable and sets you up for disappointment.”

Find Inspiration From Your Network

When you’re feeling lost, consider finding job search motivation from people in your network – friends, family members, and colleagues who have recently succeeded in their own job searches.

“If you see an old friend has recently updated their LinkedIn profile with a new job, reach out to them to say congrats and ask for their advice,” said Cole. “They’ll likely be more than happy to share their tips and tricks for success in this job market.”

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Celebrate Wins – Even Small Ones

“When you’ve accomplished a SMART goal or important task, celebrate! Creating a rewards system for yourself is a great way to stay motivated during your job search,” recommended Cole.

Celebrate finishing a long application by spending an hour with your dog at the park or reading your favorite book. Make a stop on your way home from an interview to pick up your favorite treat. Acknowledging what you’ve accomplished with a well-deserved break, either alone or with a friend, will go a long way in boosting your job search motivation.

Your next great job is out there, and iHire is here to help you find it. For even more motivation for your job search, head to our Resource Center.