How do you stay motivated while looking for a job?

Ask A Biologist Monday 3/27/23

Answers from Biologists:

• I think about all the stuff I’ve done in the field and how I got through it. If I can do that, I can do anything.

• Calling employers to show interest. It feels like I’m doing something to help my chances.

• Create a fall back plan and set a time frame to get hired by or fall on that plan.

• Apply to multiple jobs and not just set my heart and hard work on a single one.

• NO means Next Opportunity.

• Remembering I am interviewing them for fit as well.

• Sow my applications like smooth brome.

• I have worked plenty of crappy non-bio jobs from hospitality to sales. Not getting a job isn’t an option.

• Cross your fingers and toes. Hope you’re good enough.

• Not taking rejection personally. Something I am definitely still working on.

• I treat it like the Hunger Games and refuse to be defeated! The job search won’t beat me!

• It’s also about timing project needs, who else has applied, and not just about me.

• At this point I think it’s mostly spite. I’m too stubborn for my own good.

• Rejection might be a blessing. Something better may be coming that you need to wait for.

• Working in the animal field I’ve realized there will be more opportunities and better fits.

• Every opportunity that doesn’t work out is leading you to something better.

• I would view applying to jobs as a lottery. The more I apply to, the better my odds.

• I remind myself why conservation matters.

• Continually visualize where you want to end up.

• Look to your support network throughout the process.

• Ask for constructive criticism/feedback if you get interviewed but don’t get the job.

• Focus on the things that you can control throughout the process.