When it comes to job searching, there is tremendous power in simply “trying”. You don’t necessarily need to fully commit to something in order to reap rewards – there is so much benefit that can be gained just by dipping a toe into something new, and seeing how it feels. If you find it feels wrong, or is not the right fit for you, at least you can say you tried it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, right?

I’d like to share some examples of how the simple act of trying can benefit your job search.

TRY a new resume style. If the style you are comfortable with and have been using for years is no longer working for you (you will know this is the case if you’re not getting interviews), be willing to try something else. If you don’t like it or it doesn’t work for you, you can always revert back to your comfort zone. There are numerous styles of resumes that are suitable for different types of scenarios. Talk to an employment counsellor about a new style that might be right for you, and might help you to start getting more calls.

TRY handing out resumes in person. It sounds old fashioned and seems like something that employers would not welcome. And admittedly, some employers will tell you that you need to apply online and they cannot accept paper resumes. However, so much of your job search is about being in the right place at the right time, and a proactive (versus reactive) job search can often produce faster results. Some businesses, such as restaurants, value walk-in applicants (during the break between mealtimes) and will often interview applicants on the spot. Job seekers can be rewarded with an immediate job offer in some cases. Many employers are simply too busy to post jobs, and this is actually their last step in trying (there’s that word again!) to find applicants. If you can save them a step by showing up in person, perhaps now they don’t need to post the job, because the perfect candidate showed up on their doorstep at the right time.

TRY a new type of job. If you are feeling stuck or lacking passion or interest in your career, it may be time to try something new. If you aren’t ready to fully commit to a new career, you can try different things through volunteering in your spare time. Talking to people who you love and trust can help you to see possible new career paths that fit closely with your interests and personality. You might be able to set up a shadow shift or an informational interview to provide more information and clarity.

TRY practicing more gratitude and positivity. I know, job searching can be demoralizing and discouraging at the best of times, and it can be extremely difficult to maintain a positive attitude. It sounds counterintuitive, but numerous studies have shown that practicing gratitude, even for simple things, can dramatically change your outlook. This change in outlook radiates into every aspect of your life and can bring (some would even say manifest) positive changes. Employers can spot a poor attitude and negativity from a mile away, and it is a red flag for them during interviews. After all, who wants a miserable employee? Yes, I recognize that bad, even terrible, things may have happened in your career history, but if we can’t change the narrative and if we get stuck in victim mentality, it’s a downward spiral that is hard to climb out of. What are some things you can be grateful for in a negative situation? Perhaps a new perspective, lessons learned, perseverance, strength, and resiliency.

Now, after digesting all of the above information, you may be wondering about Yoda’s famous quote: “Do or do not. There is no try.” So… instead of saying you’ll commit to TRY one or more of these ideas in your job search, why not change your mindset, act with confidence, and decide to just DO it! I believe in you.

If you live in the Niagara Region and would like assistance with your job search, contact Emily at eberry@jhs-niagara.ca to get started.