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Sometimes, jobseekers disappear - at least statistically speaking. While the unemployment rate declined in November to 8.6 percent, part of the reason was that 315,000 unemployed workers simply left the workforce. These are dropouts, jobseekers so discouraged by the difficult environment that they stop looking for work completely.
The United States has 13.3 million unemployed people; their average length of unemployment is 40.9 weeks, a record high.
I have talked to many people like this. They are tired of rejection. But with practice, it's possible to reduce the anxiety that often accompanies rejection. Try these tips - and keep trying.
Expect rejection
There are nearly six jobseekers for every opening. This means five will be rejected - likely including you. It's a part of the process. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start again.
Think like a salesperson
I held a commissioned sales job when I was in college. I was reminded daily to expect to hear 'no' many times before I encountered a 'yes.' Like sales, the job search is a numbers game. Salespeople know if they talk to 20 people they will get two sales. They keep positive by knowing a 'yes' will eventually come. Job-hunting works the same way.
Practice without pressure
Set up a mock interview with a friend to help ease fear. Make mistakes and correct them on the spot. At first, your friend should be completely positive. Then have him say, "You're not what we are looking for." Practice responding to rejection. With enough practice, the sting of the real thing won't be so bad.
