How to Avoid Unemployment Burnout

While it seems unlikely to those who are working, not working can be harder on you than actually having a job. The uncertainties that go along with unemployment create a great deal of stress and the constant worry about finances can strain relationships and damage your health. In today's uncertain job market, unemployment is a constant negative environment with more rejections than acceptance. What are some things you can do to avoid depression, defeatism and unemployment burnout?

The first thing you can do is realize that you are not alone. Unemployment and underemployment rates are rising in numbers not seen in years. Although this may not make you feel much better, it does mean more competition for the jobs that are open; at least you know that others are feeling the pain, too. If you know some people who are out of work also, you might work together to improve your resume writing, cover letters, work on your interview skills and compare experiences.

You can volunteer. There are plenty of organizations that can use your help and you benefit, too and including this in your resume shows you in a very positive light. Volunteer work can also help with your answers in your interview; it has broadened your horizons and added to your experience.

Rework you resume and cover letter. You can't spend too much time on these 2 documents, especially the cover letter. When you do get an interview, rest assured it was because your cover letter got you in the door.

The best sales people are never satisfied with their first or second effort on their sales letters, they work on them constantly, sharpening what seems to work and cutting what doesn't. You have to do the same with your cover letter. Each time you send it, it should be customized for the recipient, checked and rechecked for accuracy and it should be updated.

Another way to get through being unemployed is to explore freelance opportunities. There are services online that connect buyers to service providers and there may be freelance opportunities in your line of work, also. Read trade association bulletins and explore online.

Although it may seem counterproductive and frivolous, take some time for yourself. If you are putting in full workdays looking for a job, you need some down time to relax and ready yourself for the next round.

If preparing quality resumes and cover letters are a little outside your field of expertise, don't hesitate to get some professional assistance with this very important documents.