How do you fight discouragement when looking for work?

[raccoon]

I'm not looking now (thank you, God/Goddess/FSM), but I've looked before during some shitty economic times (Mainly, 1975 and 1982. Oh, and 1996, which wasn't overall a shitty economic time but I had a hell of a time finding work then. And of course it was part-time, no benes.)

Maybe some DU'ers out there have some experience, strength, and hope to share in this area, for those who are looking for work now.

[Kat45]

1. I'd also like to hear an answer to that question.

I've become quite discouraged, particularly since I'm in my fifties and I'm wondering if I have any job skills at all these days. With so few job openings, it's rare that I see an ad for a job that interests me. But when I do see one, I often don't even bother sending a resume because I know it won't do any good. In today's job market, you have to have 100% of every single thing mentioned in the job description. In the past, there was some leeway and companies were willing to give you some training and the time to learn. Today, companies pretty much want you to step in full speed from day one, already knowing how to do everything you could possibly have to do in the job. And if you're not at full speed in a few weeks, you're gone. These days, a six-month probationary period translates into 3-4 weeks. I've seen it more than once.

[jp11]

2. I don't know if I do.

I try for a while and usually 'burn out' after a while, take a break from it, before I get back in. There is only so much searching I can do and letter writing etc before I can't stand to do it anymore.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

3. I've been looking since January of this year. It helps to get out and go to networking

events (Chamber of Commerce breakfasts, etc.). Also, where I live, there are job support networking groups. If you have one or more of these where you live, seek them out. Some days, I have to turn off the news (I want to keep up with what's happening, but it can get me down some days). Also, I occasionally go for walks around the neighborhood (gets me the hell out of the house, and the exercise can't hurt.) Finally, it's vital to have a good support system (family, friends, etc.).