Job searches are often stressful. If you aren’t getting the desired results, it’s easy to become disheartened. However, if family members, friends, or network members keep asking how your job search is going, it can be even harder to keep negativity at bay.
Fortunately, you can take steps to make navigating these conversations easier. Here’s what you can do.
Keep It General
If someone asks about your job search and you’d prefer not to dive into the matter, keep your response general. Let the person know that your job search is ongoing and that you’ll let them know when you land a solid prospect.
After that, pivot the conversation by asking how they’re doing in a general sense. You could also offer up a non-related story, preferably one that’s lighthearted and amusing. This allows you to answer the question and then steer the discussion in a new direction while remaining polite and pleasant.
Maintain Perspective
In many cases, people in your life aren’t asking about your job search to judge your progress. Instead, they care about your well-being and hope you’re on the path toward success. They’re asking simply to see if you have good news to share.
Understanding that their hearts are often in the right place can make dealing with the question easier. It helps you maintain perspective, ensuring you don’t read into it more than you should.
Keep It Positive
If someone presses you after you give an initial response, stick with short answers, but make sure they’re positive. By maintaining an optimistic tone, there’s less of a chance they’ll try to offer unsolicited advice.
For example, you could let them know that you have submitted applications and feel good about your odds of getting interviews. As you do, keep a smile on your face, as that makes it seem like the situation is under control. In many cases, that’ll be enough to reassure them, allowing everyone to move on to a new topic.
Ask for Help
In some cases, it’s better to be honest than to deflect, mainly if the person asking about your job search could be an asset. If they have a strong network that includes potential connections in your field or at a leading employer, you could let them know you haven’t landed a prospect. Then, ask if they know of any openings you should consider.
Since they care about your success, they’d likely happily send you information as it comes to them. In some cases, they may even be able to act as a referral or introduce you to a member of their network who could potentially help. That makes this a win-win, as they feel helpful, and you’re getting insights about roles.
Connect with a Recruiter
Often, the easiest way to end conversations about your job search is to land a new position. If your job search isn’t delivering results, working with a recruiter is a wise move. You’ll get a job search ally that can connect you with leading employers, give you access to unadvertised openings, coach you through the hiring process, and more.
If you’re ready for a streamlined job search, the staff at The Advance Group wants to hear from you. Contact us to speak with one of our recruiters today.
