Job searches are taking longer than ever these days, although it’s difficult to track exactly long. The unemployment rate for 16-24 year olds is 18%, up from 13% one year ago. (www.businessweek.com) It can get be tough to keep your spirits up even during the best of times.
But, beware: recruiters are on the look out for candidates who appear angry, depressed or desperate. They also want to know what you have been doing during your extended job search. Here are some suggestions to stay upbeat and positive during your job search:

Find a volunteer position that will enable you to meet people and ideally develop the skills you will need for your dream job. I am working with a client right now who volunteers 2 mornings per week in the emergency room of a local hospital. She loves it because it get her out of the house, enables her to interact with people who need help and gives her perspective. Another client of mine is interested in IT and wants to volunteer at a local food pantry stocking shelves. While this is a great cause, it is a solitary position so I suggested he work with a group who needs some IT help. He is going to volunteer at his town’s historical society. They need the help and he will make contacts from al over town.
Take a course at a local community college or adult education program. This will help you fill in some gaps on your resume as well as keep you sharp and develop contacts.
Make a list of projects you want to get done around the house. On those days when there isn’t much going on or you are feeling really sad, put your job search on hold and tackle one of those projects. At the end of the day, you will feel more productive and in a better frame of mind for the job search.
Call a headhunter or agency recruiter. They will always meet with you. It’s a great way to get feedback, on your resume or interview skills. You an also get a lay of the land from them in terms of jobs that are available.

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