Self talk sounds like the softer side of a job search, doesn’t it? After all what does self talk have to do with really finding a job? A lot.
Self talk affects all job seekers at some time in their search, and the longer the seach goes on, the more important self talk becomes.
Most job seekers know that a job search consists of developing technical skills such as creating resumes, branding statements, implementing marketing campaigns and sharpening those interview skills.
The internal side of your job search is the other half of the equation.
The internal side of a job search usually gets pushed aside in the rush to get the technical — and tangible — job-search tools developed. The mental or internal side of a job search is what takes over once you have the technical side of things underway. They’re what keep you motivated, keep you confident and keep you moving ahead when all you want is to stop looking and start working.
I like the way Tommy Newberry describes self talk, particularly as it relates to reaching for success.
Here are five self-talk techniques to use when your job search is getting you down, or you feel you’re not making as much progress as you would like.
1. Try replacing the word “if” with “when.” For example, “When I land a job in marketing, I look forward to implementing a new plan of action”.
2. What you “expect with confidence” tends to materialize. As Henry Ford so eloquently stated that “Whether you think you can or think your can’t, you’re right.”
3. What the mind harbors the body expresses. Hiring managers can spot a job candidate who has struggled with a long search by their non-verbal messages as well as the answers. If a job candidate is still feeling resentment by a previous job, those feelings are hard to hide.
4. Refuse to take possession of anything you don’t want in your life. Attach instead attach yourself mentally and verbally to what you want.
5. Self-talk is contagious. Don’t let others contaminate your self-talk with their fear or negativity.
This week, pay attention to your self talk, and catch yourself if you start down the path of unproductive thoughts.
How do you keep your spirits up so you can moving forward when your job search lasts longer than expected? Share your tips.
