Develop the right attitude to land your dream job

By Peter Kamuri

Searching for a job can be a daunting exercise. It is even more nerve wrecking when you employ all the methods – expanding your network, revamping your curriculum vitae or getting professional help – but none seems to be working.

If this scenario is familiar to you, then it is time to think about your attitude. Having a negative attitude can hurt your job search effort and this could be what is holding you back.

It is not uncommon to hear some jobseekers ask those who are already working some questions like: How did you get your current job? Did you know anybody in the organisation? Did you bribe your way to your current job?

What they forget is that many people are in their current jobs not necessarily because they were pushed by somebody, but simply because they believed in themselves.

Peter Njamba, a career advisor, says the good thing about one’s attitude is that it is within one’s powers to control, unlike most of the other factors that determine whether your job search will be successful or not.

Carry yourself

“It is hard to control whether a prospective employer will like you or not. However, you can control your attitude and the way you carry yourself in the job search process, which will determine whether you will get a job or not,” he says.

How then do you develop the right attitude?

For starters, you need to know how to handle setbacks of job search. In case you make an application and you are not offered a chance for an interview, this should not be the end of your search. Rejection is normal and not a personal attack on your abilities or character.

“You must also be ready to take full responsibility for your job search and life in general. Although you may be networking with other people, the buck stops with you as you have to take full responsibilities of your commissions and omissions,” Njamba advises.

Abilities

The next step is believing in your abilities,

“You must know what want and avoid selling yourself short by going for junior positions because you think you cannot get the senior ones. Employers are able to tell people who do not have a self-belief attitude and can deny you that job. So be focused and specific,” he further advises.

Njamba advises jobseekers not to show one’s desperation. Some people think that by appearing miserable, employers will sympathise with their plight and hire them. In the contrary, no one is out there to help you in your job search, let alone hire you if you cannot convince why you want to be hired.

“In the end, do not forget that keeping good health is critical in ensuring that you maintain a positive mental attitude. Keep yourself healthy and in good physical shape by exercising regularly and eating well,” he advises.

As you continue to search for a job, always remind yourself that a dream job is awaiting you.

“Continuously grow yourself by acquiring new skills and knowledge. Consider going back to school, attend refresher courses, and read books and newspapers often. Working as a volunteer or simply interacting through the social media can also ensure that you are updated,” concludes Njamba.