Many people equate looking for a job with rejection and rightfully so. Job seekers often hear dozens of no's before they land a position. Repeated rejection can erode anyone's confidence and negatively affect a once-positive attitude.
Unfortunately, a positive attitude and a healthy dose of confidence are what will sustain a job seeker during a search. They are also the very qualities that will attract employers.
So, what can down-on-their luck and short-on-confidence job seekers do?
Don't Believe Everything You Think
Rejection comes in many forms during the job-search process. You send out a resume and no one responds. You have an interview and you don't receive a call back. You send a thank-you note and you don't receive a response.
It's only natural to feel insecure and unwanted. Acknowledge that and allow yourself a few minutes to mourn the loss of a particular opportunity. Then assess the situation logically and rationally.
Find a positive perspective that you can live with. ("The best job offer is yet to come," "I will use that situation to perfect my interviewing techniques," etc.) Whenever negative thoughts creep in -- and they will, refer back to that perspective. Say it aloud. Repeat as necessary.
Reach Out and Touch Someone
Looking for a job can seem like a lonely process. But it doesn't have to be. Join a local support group for job seekers. If you're not sure how to find one in your area, check with your local public library, church or synagogue, or your local employment office.
Professional organizations are also helpful and may offer advice, job leads, and a friendly ear or two.
Inform family and friends of your quest and ask for support. Be specific about the kind of support you want, too. If you don't want to be badgered about how your search is proceeding, tell them not to ask unless you bring it up. Or if you'd like encouragement, in the way of phone calls or e-mail, ask for that also.
Connecting with others banishes isolation -- a fertile breeding ground for negativity.
Try This at Home
You have the power to banish negative thoughts during your job search -- but you may not have the proper tools.
Daily meditation can help you start the day with a clear mind and a positive attitude. If you're not sure how to meditate, do a search on Yahoo! for "meditation." There are thousands of web sites that provide simple steps to help you get started meditating every day in the privacy of your own home.
Regular exercise can alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as boost self-esteem. Imagine what it can to do help shape a positive attitude during your job search. You might try yoga, which has meditative qualities, or even a daily twenty-minute walk.
Joining an exercise class or group, such as a running club, may also provide you with another level of support and allow you to expand your network at the same time.
