One of the first and most important aspects of the job search is motivation. If you lose motivation, the rest of the job search can seem hopeless. In order to maintain that motivation, you must have a positive attitude, according to Challenger Certified Executive Coach Paul Weldin at today’s Challenger Network event.
Last week, we gave some tips on things to do to stay positive. This week, we’re giving you some reasons why it’s so important.
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- Employers want to hire happy people. “If a hiring manager is looking at five candidates who can all do the job, she’s going to pick the person she likes the best,” said Paul. Indeed, if you’re up against a slew of qualified candidates, having a happy demeanor and enjoyable personality is what will win out.
- Your network is more likely to recommend you if you have a positive attitude. Similarly to employers who want happy employees, those you meet or connect with during networking will be more prone to help you if you project confidence in yourself.
- You can’t control anything else about this process except your attitude toward it. You may send out 100 resumes or go on 10 interviews and hear nothing back. This can be very demoralizing, but the truth is that you have to keep going. You should not expect hiring managers to feel obligated to return your calls.
In no way does this mean you need to be happy all the time. The job search is full of ups and downs, and it’s important you surround yourself with supportive loved ones to help get you through the downs. It also doesn’t mean you should not present your authentic self in interviews or networking meetings. It’s ok to feel down, but the important thing is to work through those feelings and refocus your energy into something positive.
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