Job hunting tips that will motivate you today

Stay motivated during your job hunt and you'll soon reap the rewards. (shutterstock)

Job hunting may be challenging, but it’s important to remember that nothing is impossible. Here's how to stay focused during your search.

Job hunting may be challenging, but it’s important to remember that nothing is impossible.If you’re feeling a bit despondent, it’s a good idea to start practicing ways to stay motivated. After all, the last thing you should do is stop your job search completely – the more you search, the better your chances of finding the right job. Here are a few top tips on how to stay motivated and focused during this crucial time.

Set up a timetable
If you have a job, but are looking for a new one, make time either before or after work to search online. If you’re currently unemployed, allocate an hour or three to job hunting, but don’t let it take over your entire day. Remember, finding the right job could take one day or sometimes months. Do something constructive with your spare time such as volunteering at a charity or upgrading your skills with an online course. Both will give you something more interesting to talk about when you finally get an interview.

Set time limits and stick to them
While it is important that you leave no stone unturned, it is also true that if you spend all your time looking for a job, you’ll end up exhausting yourself.Use the time you set aside to source jobs that are relevant to your skills and qualifications – choose your jobs wisely.

Follow up
After applying for a job, try not to dwell on the outcome too much. After one week phone the recruiter and ask if there’s been any progress with the application. If the application was unsuccessful ask the recruiter for constructive criticism. This will help you fine tune your CV or cover letter in order to make the next application a success.

Control your stress
Job hunting can take its toll on anyone, which is why it’s important to find ways to manage your job search stress levels. If you’re too stressed out, chances are your search won’t be successful. To stay motivated try to participate in activities that make you happy or releases good endorphins. Try exercising, eating healthy, learning something new or chatting to a friend to relieve stress levels. A positive attitude is sure to get you positive results.

Rejection is not an attack on you
It’s important to understand that there are candidates who are simply better than you. They might have more experience and their skills might be better suited for the job. It’s not personal; it’s just a fact of life. Instead of allowing it to get you down, rather see it as healthy competition and motivation to improve yourself. Learn a new skill or enrol for a course and soon you will be the better candidate for the job.

Visualise success
Picture your ideal job and remind yourself what success feels like. Make a vision board if you have to, but never lose sight of your goals. A positive attitude will see you succeeding again and again.

More top tips to keep you going
Get a mentor for advice and encouragement
Surround yourself with people who make you happy
Read biographies of successful people
Stay away from any kind of negativity
Take a break and do something you enjoy

Don’t let one job get you down – Careers24.com has thousands of vacancies available. Simply upload or create your CV – it’s that easy!