Will you ever get another job?

We’ve all felt a bit like this at one time or another – you have been sending out CVs and job applications, but to no avail. Sometimes you’re not even sure that your prospective employers have even seen or read your application, as it’s usually submitted electronically these days and simply vanishes off into the ether. As a result, some of my clients – and I completely understand this – feel that they’re never going to get another job.

A guiding hand

But although job hunting can seem to be a slog sometimes and there are no rewards, there will always be hope at the end of the tunnel. So, my answer to anyone who is getting downhearted is simple: “If one of their friends lost their job, would they agree with the same sentiment?” And the answer is always a resounding ‘no’.

No matter how long you are left waiting, it’s absurd to think you are going to be unemployed for the rest of your life. However, it can be hard to listen and apply our own advice that we would freely give others to our own situations. In this way, as Consultants, we’re here to ensure that we become that voice and supporter of your situation. We can offer guidance, but also support to keep morale up during times when you may be doubting yourself.

A measured approach

A measured approach is always best when searching for a job. Set realistic objectives and also define timescales and effort to be expended too. Time spent on applications should not become all-consuming. Time is valuable and can be better spent on other areas of career development.

You might need to ask yourself whether you are being realistic in the roles you are applying for and if this is the reason you are not finding a new role as quickly as you’d like. Or, are the roles you are applying for very popular ones that are attracting too many applicants? Many people want to pursue the dream of working from home full-time now, while others seek a hybrid model. Some jobs simply won’t offer a ‘work from home’ option – if the role is carried out at a public-facing premises, for example, such as health or care scenarios. Decide the work-life balance you’d like to strike and ensure the roles you’re looking at truly reflect that.

Time is the essence

Time not expended on over-tuning applications and overthinking career choices can be better spent on honing your CV profile, practicing your interview technique – or even expanding your horizons and knowledge with new training or learning. The job market is a highly-competitive area and it’s important to stand out from the crowd. You know you are the ideal candidate for the role, but does your CV spell this out? It’s often worth tailoring your CV to each individual role. Sometimes, that little bit of extra effort will make all the difference in the long run – and make sure that you don’t get into a lengthy cycle of anxiousness and self-doubt on your journey to your next role.