Looking for a job can be a frustrating and difficult process, especially as an introvert. Like many introverts, preparation is important to you. You have everything ready to impress a potential employer. You have an amazing college transcript you created with a free online transcript maker, a comprehensive resume, and references lined up to vouch for your skills.
Sadly, you’re still not getting any interview invitations or job offers. You may start overthinking, and worry that you’re just not qualified. Or perhaps you worry that employers are looking for someone more extroverted. After all, job advertisements often include words like “outgoing”, “team player” and “people person”.
You may feel like giving up, but don’t despair just yet. The worst thing you can do is to throw in the towel.
To help you stay motivated and keep moving forward, keep these tips in mind:
1. Keep your chin up.
Introverts have a tendency to be hard on ourselves. It’s easy to get down on yourself when you’ve been job hunting for a while with no results. But it’s important to stay positive and keep your chin up. If you start to feel like you’re not cut out for the job search, take a break to recharge and come back refreshed and ready to tackle it again.
Try to remember that everyone’s job search is different. Some people find their dream job within a few weeks, while others may take months or even years.
In addition, taking a break from the job search is an important part of the process. If you keep at it day after day without a break, you’ll quickly become burned out. For example, try reserving a day or two in the week when you don’t do any job search activities. Use that time to relax and do things you enjoy, such as reading, going for walks, or spending time with family and friends.
2. Be strategic about where you’re looking.
Without a strategy, you’ll waste time and effort applying to jobs that are a long shot, instead of concentrating on the ones that are more likely to result in an offer. In turn, this will lower your chances of landing a position, which can create a cycle of frustration.
Don’t just submit your resume to every job opening that comes your way. Take the time to research companies and positions that are a good fit for your skillset, goals and introversion. It might be tempting to apply for a job that you know would drain the life out of you, but consider what’s sustainable in the long run. Then, focus your efforts on applying to those types of jobs.
3. Use your network.
It may not seem like it, but job hunting is more efficient when you have a network of people to help you. In addition to providing moral support, your loved ones can also be a valuable resource when it comes to finding job openings and making connections.
Introverts often avoid asking others for help. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family if they know of any open positions or companies that are hiring. You may be surprised by how many people are willing to help you in your job search.
Feeling shy about asking for help? You can also try networking online. Social media platforms like LinkedIn are great for connecting with professionals in your field. Start by sending messages to people in your network, and see where the conversation takes you.
4. Be prepared for rejection.
The fastest way to get discouraged and give up is to not expect rejection in the first place. The truth is, you will likely face rejection multiple times during your job search. It’s a normal part of the hiring process. It’s nothing personal – businesses hire for their own self-interest, and in many cases, that means choosing the candidate who is the best fit for their needs at that particular time.
The best way to deal with rejection is to not take it personally. In fact, expect it. Once you’ve sent an application, forget about it and move on to the next one. This way, you’re not hanging around the phone waiting for it to ring and feeling like a failure when you see the post already filled.
Don’t forget that job hunting is a numbers game: The more applications you submit, the better your chances of getting hired, but it also means the rejection rate will go up. Keep this in mind, and don’t let a few “no”s get you down.
5. Be patient.
Patience is key when job hunting. Luckily it’s a virtue many introverts possess! The process takes time, and there will be ups and downs along the way. The most important thing is to not give up and keep plugging away until you find the right job for you.
It’s also important to remember that the job market ebbs and flows. There are times when there are more positions available, and other times when jobs are scarce. That’s just the way employment goes. In the meantime, focus on improving yourself – volunteer, take classes, or learn new skills. This way, you’ll be prepared when the job market turns around and there are more opportunities available.
Conclusion
Job hunting is a long and difficult process, but it’s important to remember that there are things you can do to make it easier on yourself. By following these tips, you’ll avoid falling into the trap of discouragement, overwhelm and frustration, and you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.
