Job searching can be grim! We all have been there at one point in our lives.  The amount of time, energy and research that we put into a single job application, only to receive the dreadful news that you were not selected for the position.  Hearing that news can make you feel like your whole world is crashing down around you and rightfully so.  After all, it’s your career that we’re talking about.  So how do we bounce back from that tidbit of news?

 (photo courtesy of Google)

Here are five suggested morale boosters to help guide you through your job search.

1. Self Confidence – As humans, we tend to forget ourselves in this process.  Any form of rejection makes us want to curl up in the corner.  At the end of the day, you can’t forget who you are as an individual, what skill sets that set you apart from another and what you’re able to bring to the table. Just because it didn’t work out for that particular company, doesn’t mean it won’t for another.  Trust in yourself to be able to walk away from a “no” and determined to get that “yes.”

2. Time – The key to a successful job search is doing your part.  Try to dedicate a set amount of time each day to it.  Create yourself a job searching calendar and make sure you adhere to it.  Do your research and apply to as many opportunities as you deem fit.  Step outside the box.  The feeling of being involved or engaged in the process will help boost your self worth.

3. Network – We tend to shy away from being around others during this time in our lives.  It’s really the opposite.  Going through this process, you should have as many people in your corner to help share experiences, resources and any guidance.  This will give you the best boost in your search.  I would suggest you join as many networking groups that you can.  Heavily rely on Linkedin for support.  I promise you will find many like-minded individuals who are just like you.  Building new networks will help you gain a new perspective on what the workforce is looking for.

4. Be YOU –  One of my favorite quotes that I’m always an advocate for is one by William E. Hickson, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try again.” William is certainly right.  We normally are our own worst critics and tend to give up on ourselves very easily. We start putting self doubt into our minds and that makes us lose focus.  Don’t dwell on your limitations, but more on what you’re passionate about.  Let that be your driving force.  If I were to share any advice, it would be to not compare yourself to others.  Don’t be someone you’re not just to try and land that job.  Be your authentic self and the right position will find you.

5. Resilience – Life can certainly try and knock you down, but it’s all about how you bounce back from it that matters.  If you see that you’ve applied to several opportunities and keep getting that “no” response, try to take a step back and review what you’re doing.  Being rejected doesn’t necessarily mean that your professional qualifications and personal characteristics aren’t good enough.  It just means, it wasn’t a great fit with that particular position.  At times, it may seem hard, but  don’t forget to keep a positive attitude.  It’s a big contributor to your success and it will show through your work.

Remember, you are your best salesperson.  No one knows you better than yourself.  Go sell yourself and don’t settle for anything but excellence!

**All opinions in this post are my own.**