Taking a break from your job search gives you a chance to evaluate the effectiveness of your current strategy and catch your breath.
Are things going well? Are you having limited success? Is there anything you would like to do differently?
Before reinventing the wheel trying to guess what went wrong, take some time to reflect on any feedback you’ve received from recruiters. Usually, you’ll be lucky to get a rejection letter from most companies, so don’t expect many employers to be forthcoming with constructive criticism on your interview. It’s nothing personal; they just get swamped with tons of job candidates and don’t have time to communicate with everyone.
When following up on rejections, don’t ask for feedback about why you weren’t selected for “that” position. Most recruiters will shy away from getting into specifics either because of company policies or a subconscious fear of a possible confrontation. Instead, ask them if they would be willing to share any “general” feedback that would help improve your candidacy. It’s unlikely they’ll give you anything of substance, but it’s definitely worth a shot. The worst they can say is no.
If you possess the required qualifications but haven’t been selected for an interview, go back and take a look at your resume and correspondence. Check for any typos, make sure your resume accurately reflects your experience, and have one of your friends read it to determine whether your email or letter of interest is well written and concise.
Applying for openings, preparing for interviews, and dealing with rejection can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s critically important to do something fun and enjoyable at least once a week while you’re job searching. Keep your spirits up by renting a funny movie, hanging out with friends, or treating yourself to your favorite meal.
Although it might seem counterproductive, taking periodic breaks from your job search will give you a chance to gain valuable insight into what seems to be working well and what isn’t. It also will give you a chance to recharge your batteries–a must if you’re going to be successful in landing an offer.
