As many unemployed Americans struggle through a prolonged job search, a new national survey reveals widespread job-hunt burnout — a timely reminder for families with high school and college students who will soon be navigating the same market.
The Insight Global survey, conducted among recently unemployed American adults actively seeking employment, found that a competitive job market, a lack of applicable jobs, low self-confidence and an inability to interview well are all contributing factors in job candidates’ lack of success in securing employment.
As the job search drags on for many unemployed Americans, a new national survey shows just how widespread job-hunt burnout has become. Insight Global found that a tough market, too few relevant openings, shaky confidence, and interview anxiety are all weighing heavily on job seekers. More than half say they’re completely burnt out from the process, and many are considering drastic ways to save or earn money in the meantime — from moving back in with parents to launching side hustles. Among Gen Z respondents, a striking share even say they’d rather pursue unconventional financial support than send out another round of applications.
“It’s no wonder that so many unemployed Americans are feeling unmotivated – between several years of a volatile job market, headcount reductions, budget cuts, hiring freezes and a total overhaul of the way companies are running their businesses, it can feel downright impossible to get back on track,” says Bert Bean, CEO of Insight Global, a leading national staffing company.
To beat job hunting burnout and get back in the game, Bean recommends the following tips:
- Rethink Remote: Of millennials surveyed, many feel they’re still unemployed because they will only apply to remote job opportunities. To greatly expand your options, be open to hybrid and on-site work opportunities.
- Stand Out: Over a quarter of those seeking full-time work feel that there are no jobs available for their skill set or there is too much competition for available jobs. To stand out in the crowd, get creative. Whether it’s creating an interactive resume, dropping by the office for a quick hello, or just not stopping until you hear back, doing whatever it takes to get your foot in the door improves your chances of success.
- Find Small Wins: Job hunting can be exhausting and disheartening. Find things you can accomplish that help you feel productive and remind you what it feels like to win again. It could be getting in shape, completing a 5K, journaling for a month, or making five new daily connections on LinkedIn.
- Don’t Write Anything Off: Some men in the survey said they’re still unemployed because the roles they’re hearing back about don’t match their experience or expectations. Leave preconceived notions like this at the door. Many companies offer opportunities for promotions and upskilling, so look past the specific outlined role and imagine future possibilities with that organization.
- Reach for Resources: When trying to get back in the workforce, don’t go at it alone. Companies like Insight Global can help you shape up your resume, brush up on interview skills, boost your confidence and connect you with companies and opportunities that fit the bill. Leverage events like the Be The Light tour, Insight Global’s free-to-attend mobile career center in select cities around the country. Accepting help from professionals will put you in a better position for landing a job. To learn more, and for additional tips and resources, visit insightglobal.com.
“While searching for employment that fulfills your professional goals can feel overwhelming, changing the narrative and thinking about the market in new ways can connect you with additional opportunities and position you to succeed,” says Bean.
(StatePoint)
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