Job hunting : Staying motivated

You may feel frustrated with your job search at times. Keep in mind that no one is successful with every job application - learn from each experience and move on. It is important to stay positive, especially when dealing with potential employers. Confidence and enthusiasm helps make a good impression, both in writing and in person.

To help stay motivated:

• build a support network of friends and family you can to talk to and ask for advice;
• always focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses;
• set written goals - the action plan will help get you started;
• continue to network while you look for a job - go to industry and careers events, network online and log the details of the hiring manager you have applied to for future reference;
• remember that knowledge is power - always make sure you fully research a job role and company before you fill out the application and apply for the role;
• always structure your time, ensuring you have breaks and make time for fun;
• challenge yourself - if you are not receiving positive feedback from your first few applications, try to change the way you tackle your job search;
• research, research, research - you can never over research when preparing for an interview: you don’t know what they are going to ask you, so prepare for every eventuality;
• follow up your interviews by asking for interview feedback - this is valuable information that will help you not to make the same mistake twice;
• stay positive, enthusiastic and never give up - there are lots of options out there - it’s about finding the right one for you.