To Apply or not to Apply- Recession depression

Times are difficult. In fact, that's being polite. Times are god awful. So, after countless unsuccessful job applications and little or no feedback, where does one go from here?

It may be stating the obvious, but the primary thought to remain focused on is to "not lose heart". There are thousands and thousands of people out there who are in exactly the same predicament as you and competition for jobs is fierce. It simply isn't practical anymore for employers (and for that matter recruitment agencies) to give feedback on each and every job application. Invariably this can lead to individuals feeling discouraged (and I would count myself among those individuals). But rejection should not be taken personally. The shear number of people out there fighting over an increasingly limited number of job opportunities simply means that it will take you longer and take a larger amount of applications before you see some success.

So how best to stay positive and keep up the momentum for that job hunt? A more positive and effective use of your time is to pro-actively and regularly undertake a self review. Ask yourself after each rejection, how best can I improve my chances of success next time around? Can I improve upon or add to my CV? Am I using the same covering letter time and time again or am I pro actively making sure that each time I apply, I tailor that letter to the job in question? Now more than ever it is imperative that you stand out from the crowd. It is simply no longer sufficient to rely on a one CV and one letter fits all approach. In a market flooded with applicants, you cannot assume that your experience, your qualifications and your idenitity will stand out from all the rest. The onus is on YOU to tell a recruiter why YOU should be the one for the job.

Finally, be patient. The break will come. It probably won't come if you are happy to sit back and wait for the job to fall into your lap, but if you are proactive, stay positive and are your own best constructive critic, you will find work. Now go find that job!