Enduring a prolonged and sometimes painful job search is something that we have all experienced at one point in our lives. If you are anything like us, you find yourself punching the air when you make it to the other side and make a mental note to avoid this process for as long as possible moving forward.
While no one truly enjoys searching for a job, it is a position that many people find themselves in as of late. Irrespective of the reasons that have led you to this moment, you naturally want to maximise your chances of success in your job search; this includes understanding and being aware of what obstacles you might face on your journey.
Detailed below, you will find a compiled list of some common obstacles that job seekers face in the modern world and some helpful tips on how to overcome them. There is nothing to say that you will face all of these obstacles or even any at all – it is merely important to know how to proactively manage them.
Get yourself comfortable and read on for more!
Not Having Enough Time
Some people have ample time ahead of them to find a job they want. At the same time, others are on a bit more of a strict timeframe and need to find employment as soon as possible. When faced with the latter situation, you are sure to experience a great deal of stress, which in itself could have a knock-on effect on your job search.
Finding a solution for something like this can feel like a stab in the dark – you cannot extend time, despite wishing to be able to do so. When faced with this, it can be challenging to know where best to start. However, talent acquisition and hiring managers suggest that organisation is key.
Make a note of each job application you have filled out and keep track of them individually. Spreadsheets are often a useful way of doing this and can be colour coordinated to help. What’s more, setting aside a specific time in the day to job search is also recommended. This is also particularly useful if you are searching for a different job while still undertaking employment elsewhere.
Asking Employers For References
Suppose you are in the position where you have been applying for jobs and find yourself offered a job role on the condition you provide references from previous employers. Naturally, your first instinct is going to be to celebrate; you have successfully landed yourself another job after a time-consuming job search.
At the same time, you might also find yourself wondering how to ask someone to be a reference. Especially if this is something that you have not done before, you want to ensure that you go about this in the best way possible so as to not offend anyone but while also getting a glowing reference.
There are various resources available online that can help you tackle this sort of thing. Placement and other industry leaders provide helpful guides detailing the rules you should follow when asking someone for a reference. Utilising these in your job search will ensure you get the reference you need and get the ball rolling for your next term of employment.
You Are Unsure Where To Look
Taking things back to basics here, but when embarking on a job search, you naturally want to ensure you are looking in the right places for the job of your dreams. Some job listings often appear what you want on the surface, but beneath this lies a whole host of misinformation. At the same time, you do not want to be applying for a job that will not come to fruition or provide you with anything.
Online job forums are an excellent place to search for a job in this day and age. With a simple search, you will be able to narrow down the options out there based on your work experience, specific job roles, or even the salary you want.
On the other hand, nothing stops you from targeting specific companies should you wish to work for them. If there is a job opening at the establishment, consider finding the recruiter through LinkedIn and reaching out to them that way. This personalisation can make you stand out as a candidate and put a name to a face for recruiters.
You should expect to face many obstacles when job searching; this is entirely natural and happens to the best of us. Knowing how best to overcome these obstacles and keep going will ensure you are doing your best and will open up a plethora of opportunities in no time. Remain positive throughout, even during moments of adversity, and know that this is not forever!
Common Obstacles Job Seekers Face And How To Overcome Them
