It can take time to find a new job. The e-commerce industry has plentiful opportunities, but this can be just as overwhelming as too few job options from which to choose. You may have begun your search with all the energy and motivation in the world, but as time moves on, you might begin to feel like you’ve had enough, already.
How to beat the job search blues
It happens to the best of us, but you can take steps to stay positive and in focus when it comes to finding a new job. Consider the following:
- Treat your job search like a job—with breaks. That means you work on in for a finite amount of time, and then you “punch out,” walk away and take a break. No one can work endlessly, and that includes searching for your next job. Even if you’re amped up to start something new, your mind needs a rest throughout the process.
- Don’t rely on the “perfect resume.” Yes, you should update your resume and cover letter, tailoring them to each job to which you apply. But aside from grammatical or content errors, a hiring manager isn’t expecting a perfect resume. Add the information that’s needed, make sure everything is accurate, and consider it complete. Remember that potential employers skim plenty of resumes looking for key information—whether you have the necessary skills and experience to do the job. If they can easily find that information, you’re all set.
- Get out and talk to people. Spending too much time behind your computer can make anyone a little stir crazy. Instead, take some time to get out of the house and make human connections. Go to job fairs, networking events and industry conferences. This can do just as much for your job search as scrolling through online listings.
- Have human conversations. Plenty of emphasis has been placed on the “elevator pitch,” but it’s not always necessary—or appropriate. Sometimes it’s much easier and more fun to just have a conversation. Introduce yourself to industry contacts, chat and establish common ground. This can make you just as memorable as hammering home your memorized introduction, plus you don’t run the risk of putting the other person on edge.
- Do things you enjoy. When you hit the “pause” button on your job search process, you shouldn’t always proceed to immerse yourself in additional work-related activities. Instead, do something you enjoy—even better if it has nothing to do with work. Go on a hike, hit the beach, see a movie, meet up with friends, take your dog for a walk or read a book. You’ll help your mind relax, and you can return to your search renewed and refreshed.
- Volunteer. To stay busy, choose a cause you hold near and dear, and volunteer your time. You’ll meet people, learn new things (possibly even skills you can add to your resume?!) and feel good about giving back to the community around you.
- Join a professional organization. You can meet like-minded individuals, connect and learn about job openings. Face-to-face interaction can be much more valuable than sending off job application after job application.
- Work with a recruiter. As an expert in the art of the job search, a recruiter is a valuable ally in your mission. Recruiters work directly with clients and have the inside scoop on job openings, even those that haven’t been advertised. If you are a great fit for an open job, your partnership with a recruiter makes it more likely you’ll score an interview.
- Try a temp job. If you’re having a hard time finding something new, you might consider temporary work in your field (or even in a related field). You’ll make money, which can take the edge off your job search. You may learn new skills, and you just may discover more about your working self, what you enjoy and what might be next in your career path.
- Try not to get impatient. Remind yourself that it’s a process, and every step you take gets you one step closer to your next job. The right job for you is out there, and it’s only a matter of time before you find it.
Interested in working with a recruiter?
Your recruiter can help make your job search faster, easier and more productive. And it helps to work with a staffing professional who specializes in e-commerce. At Jarvis Cole, we’re experts in the e-commerce space and we’re looking for qualified candidates around the globe. To learn more and get started on the next step towards your future, contact us today!