So, the job hunt begins. And while I battle it out with who knows how many other recent graduates and stress over that first dreaded student loan bill, I'm trying to find things to fill out my days. Inexpensive things to fill out my days. I think "inexpensive" is a pertinent qualifier, because while it would be nice to rebuild my bike or attempt a radio satellite...I have to remember that my dwindling savings limits my options. (Side note: the rebuilding of the Purple Trail Eater is on hiatus until such time as gainful employment has been successful). The same financial worries have also forced me to push back plans of giving mountain bike camping a valid effort...who knew panniers could be so damn expensive. And while I'm still trying to think up some clever and cheap ways to rig my bike down with the bare bones gear for outdoor survival, I think I could reasonably keep myself happy and occupied with just on-foot exploration and day trips to the closest mountain bike trails/parks.
The important goal here is not let myself get dragged down by the seemingly fruitless job search and the grey, dreariness of winter. Both which can lead to muscle loss, brain apathy, and mid-section increases. I'm doing pretty darn good at keeping the motorcycle on the road during the cold weather season, but I have my riding partners to partly praise for that. But it's the activities that require more independence and long, cold nights alone in a tent out in the middle of nowhere that are lacking at the moment. My gear for such endeavors is mostly set; I'm lacking a couple of items which would make it easier but not neccesary to actually hitting the trail. And while company would be great, the majority of my friends have jobs and can't just escape for an overnight backpacking trip. Which really leaves only two option. Either I commit to a plan and just do it...or sit at home and daydream about it.
On a similar note I've been a mostly inactive member of Nashville's hiking meetup group for over a year now. In that time I've managed to make it to only one planned event. Now might be a good time to get out of lurk mode on the website and actually get out there and meet new people. As an added bonus, I may actually meet a similiarly unemployed recent graduate looking to distract him/herself from the realities of life with hiking/backpacking/camping activities. My impecunious misery would love company. :)
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I wish you well in your job hunt. The formula that has worked for me is:
ReplyDelete1) Treat the job hunt as your job. Wake up at 8 am and get to work on your resume, applications, cover letters, online networking, cold calls and don't stop until lunch time. After lunch, get right back on the horse. I filled a lot of time with online applications and tailoring my cover letter for each.
2) Once you get an interview, do not let them forget your name. Write an immediate thank you letter. Spend the next week researching the topics that you had trouble with and send a follow-up letter. Research a related topic and spark an email discussion about it. Call after 3 weeks to stress your continued interest.
I know it seems desperate, but these are things others do not do and will put you a step ahead. So far, I have not been out of a job for more than a couple of weeks. From application to offer, it hasn't taken more than 6 weeks.
Good luck!
Reggie, very good suggestions. My major issue is point one though. Not that I disagree its just that with all the distractions around me at home I would find myself doing other things. I think it is why I make sure I have another job before leaving the current one *LOL*. I like the money and will survive in it to the next opportunity. (btw they advertised the LAN manager position here which I applied for so who knows)
ReplyDeleteSteve