Don't give up during challenging times!
I have met and trained many job seekers who often complain about the recruitment process. Examples, of such statements include:
I have applied for 5 jobs this week and the employer has not replied. I give up!
I have had several job rejections which has knocked my confidence. I can't be asked anymore!
I have attended several job interviews and was unsuccessful. I give up!
The key is RESILIENCE. Within this article, I will share with you how to maintain resilience during times of difficulty. But what is resilience? Put it simply, it is the ability to bounce back from a period of difficulty. Resilience relies on different skills and draws on various sources of help, including rational thinking skills, physical and mental health, and your relationships with those around you. Read more at: https://www.skillsyouneed.com/ps/resilience.html
So to put this into context, in 2013 my confidence was at an all time low after my first employability and careers event I organised received poor attendance. In fact I was embarrassed. I measured the success of this event on the attendance figures and not the impact it had on the individuals who attended. The testimonies from the people that attended were very encouraging, but my confidence was severely knocked and I just lost my way to put it simply.
During this time, I remembered a good friend of mine and Training Associate Chris Browne shared with me an inspirational story about the founder of KFC – Mr Colonel (Harland Sanders). Let me start by saying that no matter what your situation is, you always have the ability (if you want) to pull on your reserve of determination, perseverance to achieve your goals, regardless of age or circumstance.
Having managed a restaurant for several years, at the age of 65 Mr Colonel found himself penniless. He retired and received his first JSA payment for $165. And that was just the beginning of his international fame and success story about what happens when resilience meets opportunity! Legend has it that Mr Colonel Sanders now retired travelled door to door to houses and restaurants all over his local area. He wanted to partner with someone to help promote his chicken recipe, but was faced with many rejections. In fact, 1009 "no"s before he heard his first "yes".
Yes you read that sentence correct…1009 "no"s before he heard his first "yes". So the magic number is that the 1110 investor said YES! Imagine, if Colonel Sanders gave up at 1008!
Let that sink in. 1009 "no"s before he heard his first "yes".
So, if you have received 3 job rejections, 10, 20, 30 or 100 – remember the story about Colonel Sanders who preserved until he received a YES.
So fast forward to 2018, I have now crawled out of my ‘self-pity rut’ where I have remained for 5 years. I have learnt that they are many lessons along my career pathway, combined with the twists and turns of life we must keep on going and practice resilience.
Don’t give up. No excuses. Master Resilience!