Top Tips for Staying Positive: A Recruiter's Perspective

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One of the cool things I get to do in my job is to meet with groups of people who are “in transition” which is to say, looking for their next role.

We talk about how to work with recruiters and job search strategies in general. I usually talk a little bit about my background and approach, and then invite the participants to talk about what they are looking for. Then I open the floor for questions.

Last week, I worked with a great group of human resource experts. It was so interesting to hear about their journeys and challenges. Of course, they had lots of questions about key words, resume formats and job requirements, but the best one came near the end of the session.

“I am just going to put this out there” she said. “How do you all stay positive in your job search? I am finding it pretty hard”.

Lots of bobbing heads and knowing looks in the room meant that her question really struck a chord.

So we went around the room. Everyone was asked to suggest a technique that they either had used or were planning to put into practice.

Here is the list:

  1. Have faith
  2. Try new things
  3. Focus on family and friends
  4. Offer to help/Volunteer
  5. Go to the gym
  6. Take breaks
  7. Chocolate
  8. Keep focused on the long goal
  9. Let people help
  10. Ignore self-doubt
  11. Go with the flow and keep an open mind

There are some real gems here. I have a lot of respect for anyone who is willing to share their ideas and this group did not hesitate. They were an inspiring bunch – I wish them all well.