Back on August 26, the St. Louis Cardinals were 10.5 games out of the Wild Card spot and nearly everyone considered them all but finished for a chance in the playoffs.  What they accomplished to get to the playoffs and ultimately become the 2011 World Series Champions is a great example of perseverance!  

According to HRMC, the definition of job perseverance is “staying persistent in a course of action despite difficulties, obstacles, and discouragement.”  As your job search duration turns from several weeks to several months, it’s hard not to wonder if your career will make it to the “post-season” anytime soon.  You’ve developed a strong campaign plan and worked hard at your job search, so when jobs continue to elude your grasp, staying motivated and demonstrating self-confidence can be quite challenging.  

Sustaining perseverance in a job search is extremely important, yet some job searchers seem to be naturally resilient and “bounce back” from rejection.  So, how do you keep going?  First, you have to determine if you are the type that sees the glass as half empty or half full!  Being optimistic and developing a positive demeanor is your “fuel” for continuing through any job search obstacles.  Secondly, review your job search activity and results and determine what changes, if any, need to be made regarding your approach, direction, and overall strategy.

Knowing that the job market is extremely competitive, make sure your job searching skills are sharp and current, especially when it comes to technology.  Even if you are at the top of your game relative to your career, you may be missing opportunities due to your lack of sophistication as a job seeker!  So, do whatever it takes to give yourself that competitive edge…and hang in there!