Restart a stalled job search

Those feelings are justified by the numbers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 36 percent of unemployed workers have been without a job for 26 weeks or more.

And, although there are lots of news flashes stating that the economy is in recovery mode, job candidates know it is still difficult to find work. Companies just aren’t adding jobs as quickly as candidates would like them to.

So it’s natural that job search frustration can escalate, and lead to a feeling of hopelessness.

If that occurs, it is important for job candidates to try new job search techniques that may help jump-start their search. Adding to the job search mix can be a major component to bring back the motivation.

Here are a few examples of job search techniques that may help reinvigorate a tired job search.

1) Write a script for improved effectiveness. Outline what important points need to get across to a hiring manager. Commonly known as an elevator pitch, the time limit for a script should not exceed one minute. An energetic and enthusiastic script that highlights job skills can make a lasting impression.

2) Start a blog. Job candidates can start a blog that deals with the trials and tribulations of the job search, then add items like job skills and accomplishments. Mix in job openings that others may not know about. When other candidates in the same boat start to add, there may be new job search techniques and job openings that help secure a position.

3) Expand the horizon. Applying for jobs that are not in a specific field can have positive impact. Interviews, even if they don’t pan out, can help keep communication skills sharp. Thinking outside the box also shows a hiring manager that the candidate has flexibility.

4) Attend chamber of commerce meetings. Almost every local town or city has an official chamber of commerce. The chambers consist of members in business, education, and government who focus on economic development. A job candidate can learn what’s going on locally, and can pick up pointers about where jobs might be available.

5) Volunteer. Many job candidates can keep their skills sharp and meet new network sources by volunteering part of their time. Volunteers share a passion for the work they are doing, and job candidates may find that the person they are working with is a hiring manager at XYZ. Volunteering also helps fill in blanks between jobs, and that can make a resume look more meaningful.

6) Post to resume databases. Generally the posting is free, and this can be much more effective then blindly sending out resumes to companies. Hiring managers search resume databases looking for candidates to fill positions.

7) Use social media. These days, it is a social networking world. Build online connections on services like Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Use those platforms to make / find observations about work and job searching.

8) Cold call. There are few things job candidates dread more than making a cold call. But, a job candidate might just land an opportunity by cold calling a hiring manager and asking about job openings. Quality companies and hiring managers are always interested in talented candidates, even if they aren’t referred to them by a recruiter or human resources.

9) Focus on quality over quantity. Many job candidates feel guilty if they don’t look for a job every waking moment. That attitude is understandable, but also unrealistic. Spending quality time in a job search is more important than applying for a job that is unattainable.

10) Keep the spirit up. Job searching can seem endless, and make candidates feel worthless. Be aware of cynicism and negativity. Find one thing to do every day that accentuates the positive. It can be exercise, church, a walk with a spouse or friend, anything that clears the clutter from the mind and brightens the outlook.

In summary, engage in some of these or similar activities to help transform discouragement into hope. It is natural to have some discouraging times, but it is important to show courage in the midst of feeling fear. Keep a spirit of hope in the day.