6 Ways You May Be Sabotaging Your Job Search or Career Change

Navigating a job search or career change is a multifaceted process, demanding clear goals, effective networking, a strong online presence, and tailored application materials. However, our own behaviors and mindset can unwittingly sabotage this endeavor. Whether you're actively job hunting or in the midst of a career change, it's essential to recognize these potential pitfalls and actively work towards addressing them, enhancing your chances of getting what you want. 

In my segment on AM Northwest, I shared six ways you may be sabotaging your efforts and what to do about it. 

1. Unrealistic Expectations: This process takes both time and commitment. You can't send out a few resumes and then call it quits. In fact, if that's your only plan, you're definitely going to be unsuccessful. This process can take a minimum of 6 months, so you must be committed to the process and the time and effort it will take.

2. Master the Inner Game: The reason most people give up so early or, honestly, fail to put forth the necessary effort is because of fears, doubts, and limiting beliefs. That means you must shut down that negative self-talk and stop personalizing and internalizing rejection. This process is not for the faint of heart, so you'll need to be more resilient during the process.

3. Applying For Everything: You don't know what you really want, so you're applying for any and everything, including jobs you don't even want. When you lack clarity about what you want or are fearful of going after what you do want, you lack a focused process to get what you want. So get clear about what you really want.

4. You Undervalue Yourself: Another reason you apply for everything is that you don't know the value of what you have to offer and the gifts you bring to the table. This will also impact your ability to interview successfully for jobs which may reinforce your negative self-talk. Learn how to appraise the value of what you have to offer.

5. You're Focused On Job Titles & Skills: When you focus on titles and skills, you limit what's possible. All titles aren't the same across industries, and if you only focus on your skills from one job, you'll miss all of the gifts and strengths you can offer another. Look below the surface, the title, and skills, and learn at a cellular level what you do, how you do it, where, and why. 

6. You Don't Have a Plan: In order to make an intentional career choice, you have to have a clear vision matched with aligned actions to achieve it. That requires a plan. Without it, you'll keep engaging in the first five behaviors.

Check out my YouTube channel for more tips and strategies to support your professional career.