Finding the Right Job for You: A Goal-Setting Guide for Your Job Search
Lately, I’ve noticed a growing number of clients expressing frustration about rushing into jobs post-college, only to realize that their current roles don’t align with their long-term goals. This realization can feel overwhelming and even discouraging. If you’re in this position, know that you’re not alone—and more importantly, you don’t have to navigate this transition by yourself.
As a therapist, I help clients step back, reflect, and approach their job search with intention. Together, we can identify your core values and explore how you want those values to show up in your career. We can also look at past jobs to determine what worked, what didn’t, and what you're truly looking for in your next role. Setting attainable goals, establishing accountability, and creating a support system can make this process feel much more manageable. And, just as importantly, I provide a space to process the emotions that come with job searching—whether that’s frustration, anxiety, self-doubt, or excitement about new opportunities.
Here are some helpful tips when looking for a job!
Tip #1: Clarify Your Job Search Goals
Before sending out applications, take some time to reflect on what kind of job will truly align with your long-term vision. This step can help you avoid jumping into another role that isn’t the right fit.
Ask yourself:
What type of job am I looking for? (Industry, role, company culture, location, etc.)
What are my top three priorities? (e.g., salary, work-life balance, career growth, stability)
What concerns do I have about my job search? (e.g., lack of experience, competition, time constraints)
Defining what success looks like for you can help you stay focused and intentional with your applications.
Tip #2: Take Action with Small, Achievable Steps
Once you have a clear vision of what you want, breaking the job search into manageable steps can prevent it from feeling overwhelming.
Networking: Building Connections That Matter
Many job opportunities come from networking rather than job boards. Reaching out to people in your industry can open doors and provide valuable insights.
Identify three people—former colleagues, professors, mentors, or friends—who can offer guidance or job leads.
Decide how you’ll connect (email, LinkedIn, phone call, networking event).
Set a deadline to reach out to them.
Updating Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume should tell a story about where you've been and where you're headed. If your career goals have shifted, your resume should reflect that.
Review and update your resume. What needs to change to align with your new goals?
Ask a trusted friend, mentor, or career coach to review it.
Set a deadline for finalizing your resume so you’re ready to apply.
Applying for Jobs with Intention
Rather than applying to every available job, focus on quality applications that match your skills and interests.
Set a goal for how many jobs you’ll apply to each week.
Identify where you’ll find job listings (LinkedIn, Indeed, company websites, industry-specific job boards).
Set a deadline for sending out your first three applications.
Tip #3: Prioritize Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Job searching can take a toll on your mental health. It’s important to prioritize self-care and maintain a sense of balance during this transition.
Consider:
What activities help you relax and recharge? (Exercise, hobbies, meditation, spending time with loved ones)
How will you celebrate small wins? (Every application sent or interview scheduled is progress!)
Who can support you emotionally during this process? (Friends, family, mentors, or a therapist)
Through therapy, I help clients set healthy and helpful boundaries so that job searching doesn’t become all-consuming. Together, we can work on maintaining work-life balance and ensuring that stress and self-doubt don’t take over.
Tip #4: Reflect, Adjust, and Stay Motivated
Job searching is a process that requires patience, persistence, and flexibility. Regularly reflecting on your progress can help you adjust your approach and stay motivated.
Ask yourself:
What progress have I made this week?
What challenges have I faced?
What can I adjust to improve my job search next week?
If your job search feels overwhelming or discouraging, therapy can offer a structured space for support, goal-setting, and reflection. I can help you navigate setbacks, celebrate progress, and stay on track with confidence. You don’t have to do this alone—together, we can create a plan to find a job that truly aligns with your values and long-term goals.
Would you like to set up a time to talk? Feel free to reach out through my website!