How to Stay Confident When You’re Unemployed

Maintaining confidence is critical when job hunting. Ironically, a job loss can pretty much destroy said confidence in the blink of an eye; and being unable to find employment over long stretches of months and years doesn’t help the situation. No, long-term unemployment can destroy confidence, and in it’s place fear, uncertainty and insecurity may begin to take root.

One of the main reasons maintaining confidence is so important for job seekers is that it keeps you motivated and taking action toward your goals. You know that you’re good at what you do; it’s just a matter of finding the perfect opportunity and fit for your talents. It’s not about being cocky or bragging; it’s about knowing you have the skill set to offer solutions to some very specific problems – problems that are costing companies lots of money the longer that job position remains unfilled. They’re searching for the right candidate and it just so happens that person is YOU.

Another benefit of a confident personality is that radiates so powerfully that others feel it too. In an interview, the confidence you project to the person doing the interviewing can make them feel good about inviting you to accept the job position. At networking events, that person asking “So, what do you do?” may be so impressed by your first impression that she offers to connect you with a friend who happens to be a senior-level manager at your dream company.  It could happen. The real challenge in a period of unemployment is keeping confidence levels steady and believing that the next big opportunity is just around the corner. These ideas may help:  

Work out daily. Yes, absolutely, work out to maintain or achieve optimum health and energy. Another benefit of regular exercise is the release of endorphins, the “feel good” hormones. According to WebMD, exercise has been associated with reducing stress, preventing anxiety and depression and increasing self-esteem (e.g. confidence).  

Maintain a routine. A daily routine helps you prioritize daily tasks and ensures that the important stuff gets done. Your job search should be a part of your daily routine. In and of itself, search for a job can become a time-consuming and overwhelming experience. Set aside a block of time daily for job search activities (networking online, face-to-face events, researching company websites, working on resume/cover letter, online profiles, conducting follow ups, etc.).  

Attend networking events regularly. These days it’s about who you know when searching for a job. You’re more likely to find your next gig through your network of contacts than trolling through job boards. Network online through social media; but make time to get out and in front of people at networking events. Networking events keep you socially active and engaged which fuels confidence.

Repeat confidence-boosting affirmations daily. Not to sound “new agey” or anything, but I am a believer in utilizing positive affirmations to build and maintain confidence and self-esteem. It’s based on a pretty simple concept really – if you repeat something enough times, eventually you’ll start believing it. So why not set aside time daily repeating positive affirmations, like “I am smart and competent?” Even if you’re skeptical, what do you have to lose by trying it out for a week or two?  If you need help getting started, check out theseaffirmations for confidence.

Remain up-to-date on news and information related to your industry. This information can arm you with topics of discussion at networking events, and keep you informed about how your profession/industry may be evolving. For instance, you may decide to pursue a specialized certification, take a course to continue your education/improve certain skills, or return to school to pursue a completely different career path.

Now be honest… is the resume and cover letter you’ve been submitting for jobs getting you noticed? Are you receiving invitations to interview? If you answered “no,” we should talk. Contact me by phone: 1-866-562-0850 or email: info@topresumewriting.com for a NO COST, NO OBLIGATION 15-minute consultation.