Staying Positive When Time Drags On

Let’s face it, the economy is way down and news reports tell us every day how bad the outlook is. Unemployment is up here and there (although reportedly not quite so bad in the D.C. area as in many other U.S. regions). Companies are doubling up the workload on the employees they kept after laying off others and hiring fewer temps. I could go on and on.

It’s easy to get sucked into the gloom and doom scene, which can drag you down so that your job search becomes a perceived exercise in futility. Once that happens, your low mood will sabotage your efforts and show on your face and in your voice. I know. I’ve had a few days since my March layoff when the job hunt seemed hopeless, but it’s not. For example, I heard from a recruiter the other day that he’s seeing some action on the hiring front. Things are beginning to stir.

Also, if you get out and meet people in and out of your own field at local networking or learning events, you will find a great community of helpful professionals, willing to offer tips, support, leads and comfort. The main thing is to stay active in your professional arena. You may be on the outside now, but it could be your door to getting back inside. For me, it has been a lifeline to keeping a positive outlook and continuing on.