By Megan Boone

“Searching for a job is essentially a full time job.”

While this may not always be technically true, it often can feel this way.

Let’s face it, searching for a job can be overwhelming, challenging, and exhausting. Depending on the current job market and current trends of hiring, the job search process can sometimes be more extensive and take longer than originally expected. Throughout the process, it can be easy to want to shut down and stop your search at times if you aren’t getting the results you initially had expected. 

Let’s discuss five different tips and methods for managing burn out and moving forward during a job search:

Set goals for yourself. It seems simple, however, at times of frustration, it can be easy to shut down and stop your search. Consistency is key. Setting goals for yourself can provide structure and organization within your search. Specific goals can vary person to person, and you should set goals that are attainable and achievable for you. As you start brainstorming goals for your search, you may start with developing a schedule for yourself. Whether this is a certain time you check in each day, few days, or every week, having a set schedule can provide structure within your search. Once you’ve developed a schedule, consider quantifying the amount of jobs you would like to apply to in your designated time period, (i.e. I want to apply for x amount of jobs per week). Remember, though you will have a set schedule for your search and a goal of how many jobs you would like to apply to, keep in mind your values and interests in your search. Your goals may adapt and change based on the current market and trends. If you aren’t interested in a role, don’t just apply to it to meet your goals, it’s okay to adjust your goals to adapt to the market and your interests.

Chase the demand of the job market and current trends in your desired industry. The job market and each industry are constantly changing and evolving. It’s important to keep these things in mind throughout your job search. Consider exploring new areas based on the current trends and needs of the market and chase the demand. Looking to upskill in a specific industry or area? Check out LinkedIn Learning courses to expand your knowledge on certain topics and skills. Another key thing to keep in mind throughout your search is being mindful of the time of the year you’re applying for roles. For example, the end of the year in December typically is a slower time of hiring as budgets are due and staff are in and out of the office for the holidays. If you’re applying during this time, consider taking a step back from your search and actively sending out applications, to re-evaluate your goals, upskill, and create a target employer list to be ready for when the market picks back up in January. 

Expand and utilize your network. Throughout your job search process, networking can be vital in connecting to a specific opportunity. First, make sure you are reaching out and notifying your personal network that you are actively searching for a role. Catch up and reach out to old and new contacts in your network. Next, start expanding your network by utilizing LinkedIn’s various networking tools or potentially joining a professional organization in your field of interest. Once you’ve connected with new individuals, consider reaching out to set up informational interviews to learn more about what they do, the company they work for, etc. Especially in a technology focused world, maintaining and building your connections and network can make all the difference in securing a new opportunity.

Give yourself grace. The job search process can be extensive, exhausting, and frustrating. Throughout your process of securing a job, it’s important to give yourself grace and maintain balance outside of your search. While a job search can consume a lot of your time, make sure you are using your time outside of your search to take care of yourself and do the things that bring you joy. Once you’ve hit your goals you’ve set out for, reward yourself by engaging in the hobbies you love, catching up with your friends and family, and overall maintaining your general well being. The reality is, burn out can feel extremely frustrating and difficult at times. It’s important to make sure you are taking care of yourself and maintaining balance in your life outside of your job search.

The fact is, the job search process can oftentimes feel exhausting, overwhelming, and draining leading to burn out or even stopping the process altogether. If you are feeling burnt out from your job search, start by trying to implement a couple of these tips into your routine. Know that you aren’t alone in this feeling of being burnt out or in your job search.

Meet with an Advisor or an Ambassador in the Career Center to develop a plan together to move ahead in your search and land your dream job. Schedule an appointment today on Handshake or by calling our front desk at (773) 325-7431.

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Need more guidance on placing those shadowing opportunities in healthcare, whether you are a current student or an alum? Book an appointment with Megan or another member of the advising team through Handshake or by calling the Front Desk Loop (312) 362-8437 or Lincoln Park (773) 325-7431.