Staying Upbeat During a Job Search

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. That oft-quoted directive is easier said than done. In fact, if you don't get angry, frustrated or depressed during a job search, you may blow off steam at the wrong time or place.

Assuming that your resume is finished and your expectations and skills are in alignment; the wait for the right job, in the right city, with the right boss can feel like "forever."

Keeping a positive attitude has little to do with reading motivational books or listening to the chorus of friends and colleagues reminding you to be patient. It's a matter of hard work and planning. It's like running a marathon, preserving a vital burst of energy for success around mile 21.

Finding a job is a full-time job. It requires discipline and comprise. You should also keep an open mind to serendipity and networking with "non-mainstream" sources (e.g., your yoga instructor or a neighbor…casual acquaintances who may have contacts or ideas for you).

Whomever you contact, it's critical that you maintain a good attitude. Your job search may lead you to ask for help and advice from someone who does not know you well. Keep in mind that he or she may be capable of referring you on to the perfect job. If you look like a beaten-down "sad sack," your contact will not be motivated to press forward with a recommendation or important introduction.

Timing is another critical factor in networking as it relates to recalling sources and following up. You may be surprised how often a recall turns out to be fortuitous.when a position may have opened up for someone with your skills and experience.

Use your best judgment when touching base with your networking sources: Contacting them once a week is too frequent; figure out a reasonable schedule and stick to it.

Staying positive We're often asked by job seekers, "How can I stay positive during a job search when all I really want to do is crawl under the covers?"

Here's what we recommend:

Keep your family and/or friends fully apprised of your job quest. Gain their support by telling how they can help you.

Stay active, whether in planned group exercise or trips to the health club. You will feel and look better. (However, note that this is probably not the time to start a new exercise activity; don't risk an injury, particularly if you are having a down day and feeling that nothing will ever go right. Remember, we want you to be building yourself up, not crawling back under the covers.)

Be honest about who you are. If you're 5'8", slightly balding and a little overweight, it's unrealistic to picture yourself at 6', with a full head of hair, at the perfect weight.

Set incremental goals within reach for your lifestyle and personality. For instance, by applying your will power and cutting down on junk food, you may be able to shed the 10 pounds you resolved to lose back in January. In addition, updating your business wardrobe can help boost your morale. Confidence and pride rise to the surface when you feel good about how you are presenting yourself. That's the image you want to portray.

Take time to laugh and experience joy in your daily routine. Don't keep pushing yourself if you feel that you're about to snap. Inject some fun to keep your life in balance.

Buy a pint of your favorite ice cream if that will help you through a particularly difficult day. Other options might include reading a book, watching a movie or TV show, or taking a walk. You may find that taking a break for a few hours — or an entire day — actually boosts your energy level.

Depending on your level of expertise, your desired position and your ability to relocate, a job search can take three to six months. Try to keep to a routine so you have a dependable rhythm. It's amazing how resilient you can be if you maintain the right frame of mind.

Ms. Hersher is founder and president of Hersher Associates, Ltd., a health care consulting and executive search firm located in Northbrook, Ill. She is an expert in organizational assessments, position design, and executive recruitment and retention.

Ms. Hodges is executive vice president of Hersher Associates, Ltd. She is also an expert in organizational assessments, position design, and executive recruitment and retention.

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