I’m Dr. Hassan, a Board-Certified Physiatrist and Independent Practice Owner. I help physiatrists start and grow their own profitable practices so they can achieve financial independence and live without limits.
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Most recruiters today advise their clients that the average search for a physiatry position lasts about six months. That figure can be much longer for older job seekers. Dealing with such an extended period of uncertainty and rejection is hard on your self-esteem and peace of mind. You may also face financial pressure, especially if you’re unemployed. If your job search is taking longer than expected, it’s important to find a way to stay motivated and persistent. Take a look at these tips for assessing your efforts and maintaining a positive attitude:
Evaluating your job search tactics
Your job search can stretch out, even when you’re working hard and making strategic choices. On the other hand, if you’re not receiving responses to your applications or fielding job offers after interviewing, it could be time to upgrade your efforts. Add to your efforts with these activities:
1. Network vigorously. Reaching out to your contacts and meeting new people is one of the most successful ways to find a new position. Attend events related to physiatry and set a goal for inviting at least three contacts out to lunch each month.
2. Target your approach. You may benefit from being more selective. Try sending out fewer applications and spending more time customizing your cover letter and CV to match the qualifications.
3. Follow up. While some organizations discourage phone calls, others might appreciate your interest. If appropriate, call the hiring manager to ask questions and express your enthusiasm. Send thank you messages after interviews as well.
4. Check your schedule. How many hours are you spending on your job search? If you’re unemployed, you might want to aim for a full 40-hour week.
5. Rehearse your interviews. Are you generating many first interviews but very few second ones? Ask yourself and ask someone you trust to rehearse with you or practice in front of the mirror. Pick up a book about interviewing so you can identify areas where you can make positive changes.
6. Be flexible. You might find more opportunities if you’re willing to consider exploring another physiatry option of moving to a different city. Taking a pay cut could be a worthwhile endeavor if it helps you advance your career in the long run.
7. Consult a professional. If you’re unsure about what you want to do next, a career advisor may be able to give you some advice. Check with your program’s career center or ask colleagues for a referral.
Keeping up your morale
If you’re running out of money or tired of hearing that another candidate was a better fit for the position, you may need to strengthen your belief in yourself and your future. Employers want to see confidence as well as a strong CV. Increase your interviewing confidence with these ideas:
1. Take care of yourself. The stress of being unemployed can lead you to drown your troubles in too much TV or junk food. Keep yourself strong by working out regularly, eating a balanced diet, and sticking to a consistent bedtime.
2. Reach out. Ask your family and friends for the support you need. Talk with someone who can validate your feelings or help you brainstorm ways to expand your network.
3. Review your budget. You’ll feel calmer if you make a financial plan. Cut back on discretionary spending like dining out or buying clothes. Look for ways to reduce your housing and transportation expenses.
4. Stop and rest. Taking regular breaks while you’re searching will give you more energy. Enjoy free and inexpensive activities like community yoga or teaching yourself a foreign language using a complementary app.
When a long job search is stirring up difficult emotions, remind yourself that this is temporary. Keep moving forward and explore each opportunity until you find an employer who appreciates your time and resilience.
Does your long job search having you feeling down and discouraged? Check out our blog here for ways to boost your attitude for success in finding your next job
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I am Dr. Hassan, Board-Certified Physiatrist and Independent Practice Owner. I help physiatrists start and grow their own independent practice so that they can achieve financial independence and live without limits. Please go to businessofrehab.com/contractnegotiations to pick up the free guide to help you negotiate the contract after you kill it during your job interview.
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Attention, Physiatrists! Stop leaving money on the table. Sign up for the free video series: How To Build A Profitable Practice in 90 Days or Less: http://www.sixtytosuccess.com
