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Prepared
by:
Larry Jacobs, Career Services Counselor
Jewish Family & Vocational Service of Middlesex County,
NJ
The more things change, the more they remain the same. The
workplace has certainly changed. The rules of job hunting
have changed, but getting hired is still the goal.
Being unemployed or losing a job is certainly not easy.
While stress is part of the job search, there are many ways
to cope with it in order to move forward. During stressful
times such as these, it is important to find ways to relieve
tension, "lighten up" and recognize the value of
humor and optimism. You need to present a positive attitude
while networking and interviewing.
Think about this: If you don't feel good about yourself,
can you really expect other people to feel good about you?
You cannot fool anyone. Impression is so important. A good
rapport brings good chemistry. Enthusiasm is contagious!
Try these pointers with your job search:
- Speak with a smile on the telephone. Your smile will
be seen by the employer/recruiter.
- Focus on the present.
The past is done. Learn from your mistakes,
and don't let them block your progress. Use your past
experiences as a bridge to future opportunities.
- Surround
yourself with winners. Their attitude is contagious.
- Be the problem solver, not the problem. Brainstorm ways
of solving problems and suggest them to others. People
will
be impressed by your handling of situations.
- Yesterday,
status quo was the norm. Today, flexibility to change
gears is the norm.
- Take care of yourself. Remember to eat
well, exercise and relax. Rejuvenate yourself.
- Do research
on job opportunities and market trends in your fields
of interest.
- Volunteer. Worlds of opportunity may arise
from offering your services.
- Prioritize! Design a To-Do
List. Write all the achievable tasks you need to do with
your job
search. Cross
off the tasks once completed. You will
feel better when
you see how
much you have accomplished.
- Be Creative.
It allows you to deal with barriers.
- Be Humorous. It
brings you healthy self-esteem, reduces stress, and fosters
friendships.
- Be Spontaneous. Expecting the unexpected
permits you to stay loose.
The job market is tough enough. Work with others in
your job search. Learn to ask for help. Join a job search
support
group with people who understand exactly what you're going
through.
For more information about this or other topics related
to your job search, contact
the IAJVS affiliate agency nearest you.
Would you like to suggest or contribute a column for job
seekers? Please contact us.
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