How to Stay Positive During a Job Search—and Why Doing It Matters
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A positive outlook is a proven contributor to career success and maintaining one is even more critical when seeking a new job
The search for a new position can be unsettling and stressful, even in the healthiest economy. Whether you lost your job or decided it was time for a change, conducting a job hunt during a pandemic and recession demands fortitude and resilience. The idea that putting on a happy face will help might even seem odd.
But it’s true. A positive attitude can be a powerful tool for working through this difficult experience. Perspective, confidence, and balance are characteristics that attract employers, and they are conveyed in subtle ways.
Here are some suggestions that can help with exuding positive energy through all stages of your job search, especially if you’ve been at it a while.
First: maintain a healthy perspective
If you lost your job because of the pandemic-related downturn, take solace in the fact that you were in good company—unemployment hit a record high last year. COVID-19 also caused many individuals to reassess their careers and decide that a change of position was in order.
You are also in the majority if your job search is making you feel stressed and depressed. In a January Pew Research Center poll, 70% of unemployed adults reported feeling more stressed because of their employment status, with 56% experiencing more emotional or mental health issues than usual.
Working provides not only economic security but also a sense of identity, which is why separation from a job feels so painful and may cause depression. It’s helpful to take a longer-term view and understand that you are not just your job or career. You are made up of a diverse set of interests, skills, talents, and experiences. Try to lean into other parts of your life for joy and confidence.
In the same Pew poll, 63% of the recently unemployed adults surveyed reported spending more time on hobbies and interests, and 55% said they enjoyed not having to work for a while—perfect examples of embracing the positive.
Be aware of what you’re projecting
Psychologists have a phrase for the effect one person’s attitude can have on others: emotional contagion. It’s a three-step process of nonconscious mimicry, a feedback loop, and sharing. It’s why frowning can solicit some negative vibes, faces, and maybe even words from the people around you. Similarly, a smile and laughter can have positive effects and even spread a bit of joy.
Remember this during your next job interview, whether it is virtual or in person. Online interviewing can be difficult and awkward for many reasons, without considering any nonconscious behaviors. It’s harder to communicate enthusiasm and interest through a screen, and you have less control over how another person perceives you.
For a highly anticipated, high-stakes interview, take a bit of control back by rehearsing online with a trusted friend. Giving your interview space and tech a test run will make you feel more confident and prepared for the real thing. Make sure the person you pick to critique you will provide an honest review.
Be prepared, curious, and flexible
Try to approach your job search with the same energy and enthusiasm you’d summon for your highest-profile work project. Putting in the time to become hyper-educated about an industry or a particular niche that interests you can pay off by differentiating you in an interview. Understand that it may take some “special sauce” to get noticed.
If you are not getting chosen to interview for what you considered “sure thing” opportunities, perhaps it’s time for a professional pivot. Investigate other uses for your specialization and experience. You may want to try new industries or apply your skills in a related field experiencing growth.
The business landscape may have changed considerably since you were last in the job market. It's best to acquaint yourself with the differences and model flexibility and willingness to change, if required.
Lastly, reach out
Also, do not hesitate to ask for help. Now is the time to contact people in your network for advice and support. It helps to stay connected and as social as you can. Chances are more people than you may think have experienced the same feelings you have now. There are strength and positivity in numbers.
Finally, take heart from possible employment trends. Many employers paused hiring amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, but many analysts believe we are on the cusp of a hiring boom as vaccines are distributed, and restrictions end.
Job searching can be draining and demoralizing, but dwelling in its negatives won’t move you further along the path toward a new position. That forward momentum comes from a healthy long-term perspective, resilience, and a positive attitude.
Carrington Legal Search is celebrating 20 years in business: we were in the trenches with our clients during 9/11 and 2008. We partner with our clients to identify leaders and mission-critical talent to shore up and grow companies even during the most challenging times. We are here for you! To make our nationwide network work for you, get in touch at 512-627-7467 or email carrie@carringtonlegal.com.time for a professional pivot