Unemployment Dairies
How to Job Search + Using AI to land your next job

Steps to Start Your Job Search

1. Clarify Your Goals:

• Identify the type of job you want and the industry.

• List your skills, strengths, and experience to match your desired roles.

2. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile:

• Tailor your resume to highlight your skills relevant to each job.

• Use action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible.

• Keep your LinkedIn profile professional and up-to-date with keywords recruiters search for.

3. Leverage Job Search Platforms:

• Use websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and niche job boards related to your industry.

• Set up job alerts to stay updated on openings.

4. Network Effectively:

• Reach out to friends, family, and former colleagues for leads.

• Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to make connections.

• Send polite LinkedIn messages to recruiters or professionals in roles you’re interested in.

5. Customize Applications:

• Tailor your cover letter and resume for each job to show genuine interest.

• Research the company’s culture and include insights in your application.

6. Prepare for Interviews:

• Practice answering common interview questions.

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer.

• Dress appropriately for the company culture.


Tips for a Successful Job Search

• Set a Schedule: Dedicate a few hours daily to job searching, networking, and applying.

• Track Applications: Use a spreadsheet to log where you’ve applied, the role, and follow-up dates.

• Upskill: Take free or affordable courses to enhance your skills (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Skillshare).

• Volunteer or Freelance: If unemployed, these opportunities add value to your resume.

• Stay Open-Minded: Consider part-time, temporary, or entry-level positions as stepping stones.


How to Handle Job Rejection


Tips to Cope with Job Rejection

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings:

• It’s okay to feel disappointed. Allow yourself to process the emotions rather than suppress them.

2. Don’t Take It Personally:

• Rejection often isn’t a reflection of your worth but a result of competition or fit.

3. Ask for Feedback:

• Politely request feedback from the employer to learn what you can improve.

• Some companies won’t provide feedback, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

4. Reframe the Rejection:

• Think of rejection as redirection. The right opportunity is still out there.

5. Focus on What You Can Control:

• Update your skills, refine your application materials, or rehearse interview techniques.


Ideas to Stay Motivated During Rejections

• Practice Self-Care: Take breaks from job searching when you feel overwhelmed.

• Create a Support System: Talk to friends or mentors about your progress and frustrations.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Even getting an interview or completing an application is progress.

• Set Daily Goals: Apply to 2-3 jobs per day instead of overwhelming yourself.

• Keep a Positive Affirmation Journal: Write down encouraging thoughts to boost confidence.


Sample Job Search Plan


Day Task Goal

Day 1 Update Resume & LinkedIn Profile Build a strong foundation.

Day 2 Research Companies and Roles Identify target positions.

Day 3 Network with 5 Contacts Expand opportunities.

Day 4 Apply to 3 Jobs Build momentum.

Day 5 Practice Mock Interviews Boost interview confidence.

Day 6 Take an Online Course (Optional) Enhance skills.

Day 7 Reflect on Progress & Adjust Strategy Stay flexible and motivated.