4 ways to stay motivated during your job search
Searching for a job or internship can be stressful, especially if you鈥檙e not hearing back from employers. When you don鈥檛 get responses from your applications, it can feel like being ghosted. It is completely normal to want closure even if that closure is just a simple 鈥渘o.鈥听
There are many reasons you might not hear back. Recruiters may not have time to review every application, they may not be able to respond to every candidate or your application may not have made it past the applicant tracking system (ATS). Whatever the reason, it鈥檚 important to remember a lack of response does not define you or the quality of your work.听听
If you鈥檙e struggling with the uncertainty of the job search process, here are a few ways to prioritize your mental health and stay motivated.听听
Maintain perspective听听
The internship and job application processes take time and involve multiple steps, including searching for open positions, updating your resume, writing cover letters and creating online profiles. Depending on where you are in your career journey, you may feel the pressure to secure a job or internship quickly. Remember, there is no definitive timeline for how long it should take you to secure a job.听听
The best practice is to start your search six to nine months ahead of time. Create a plan from these recommended action steps and decide what you want to prioritize. You can also use this to streamline the process. Planning your approach to applying for jobs in advance can help with stress and make the process more manageable.听听
Create balance听听
Pursuing interests and hobbies outside of the application process can boost your morale. Incorporate activities into your routine that keep you motivated to work towards your personal and professional goals.听听
- Volunteering: Volunteering is a great way to build new skills while also getting involved with initiatives you care about. is an online platform where you can find volunteer opportunities from campus and community organizations.
- Learning: As a student, you have access to resources to help you learn new skills or explore topics that excite you. Enhance your skills with video courses on LinkedIn Learning, simulate what it鈥檚 like to work in different job roles with The Forage or earn a free Google Career Certificate in a field that interests you.
- Networking: Networking is about building connections. It can help you learn about different industries, meet mentors who can support you in your job search or lead to job opportunities in the future. Check out these networking tips from Career Services.听听
Prioritize well-being听
It鈥檚 important to give yourself grace throughout this process. Searching for a job or internship should not consume your entire life. Make time to hang out with friends, relax, go outside and enjoy your favorite pastimes. Taking a break can refresh your mindset and help you reenergize.听听
Tip: Take the time to celebrate small victories along the way, whether it鈥檚 updating your application materials, applying to a certain number of jobs or attending a networking event.听听
Find support听
Although you cannot predict or control when an employer responds to your application, Career Services offers several tools to help you maximize your chances in the application process.听
Artifical intellegence resource guide听听
Most employers use an ATS to manage the volume of applicants, often reducing the number of candidates by 70%. Use this guide to tailor your documents to ATS, increasing your chances of making it through the initial screening stage.听听
Assessments and activities听
Gain confidence in yourself by better understanding your interests, values and personality through assessment tools and activities.听
Career help on demand听
Utilize online tools designed to help you explore different majors, prepare for your job search, discover different career paths, build professional skills and more.听听
Job search resources听听
Access a variety of resources, tools and tips on networking, salary negotiation, interviews, resumes and more.听
Career fairs, workshops and industry events听
Career Services helps you position yourself for success through workshops, events, panels and more. There is support you every step of the way. If you have questions about the first or next step in your job and internship plans, schedule an appointment to meet with a career advisor.听