The role of family in the job search: 12 ways to help

The American job market, like anything else, has its ups and downs. As strong as it has been after the most impactful four years in history – job creation, hiring and – above all – consistency, it is safe to bet that things will, to some extent, improve. ‘collapse. Normally this might be a modest and gradual process, but given what we can expect being the chaotic nature of the next administration, not to mention the faster pace and more unpredictable nature of the changes, it will likely be even more difficult. This is not a guess; there is a priority. After more than 27 years as an independent career coach, I know for sure.

Support circle for job seekers: family

More than ever, the job seeker’s family can and should play an important role in the job search process, not so much in the foreground, but certainly in the background. Here is how the family can best support the job seeker.

Understand stress.

Job searching is a stressful thing in a good market, let alone one. So the first thing the family should do is to understand this and figure out how to reduce the job seeker’s stress. For example, is the job seeker the one who also sits down and pays the monthly bills? Or call the plumber? Or plan functions? Where to take the car for maintenance? OK, spouse or partner, take over here. They may be small things, but they add up. Remove them from your companion’s shoulders.

Set realistic expectations.

There is a good chance that the job search will not be short-lived. The current average duration of unemployment is 23.2 weeks (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics). While there are things you can do to shorten your search, the worst thing you can do is expect it. You will reach a level of frustration that you cannot handle. Be realistic. Patience, in this situation, is truly a virtue.

Help your partner concentrate.

Be there to review what was done each day, to help your partner evaluate what was done, and to help you set goals for the future. You can’t be 100 percent objective — you’re family, after all — but you can be a great mirror or sounding board.

Create diversions.

While you help them focus – as counterintuitive as it may seem – find ways to distract the job seeker from their mind. After an intense day of research, sending letters, phone calls, interviews, or whatever, buy two tickets to a movie, ask neighbors to come over for coffee, take a bike ride, or take the kids at the cinema. park. On a weekly basis, participate in activities like going to a museum or taking a day trip. You and the job seeker in your life need to decompress regularly.

Give your partner space.

The job seeker in your family no longer has an office to go to, so they need some space at home to work without distraction, noise or interruption – a sanctuary, if you will. Stay out of the way while the research is going on during the day – and make sure the kids understand it too.

But stay close.

Here and now another paradox arises: while you give space, stay close. Just be willing to do things when your partner needs them. For example, you might conduct the next round of company research to prepare for the next round of follow-up letters and phone calls.

Avoid arguments, quarrels, disagreements, quarrels and open fights as much as possible.

They are – of course – part of everyday life to one degree or another, but if there was ever a time to step back and give in, this is it.

Make a schedule and stick to it.

This is essential, and you and the children must respect it and help to uphold it.

Encourage and reinforce good behavior from your partner.

This goes for things like eating and sleeping well, working out, staying on schedule, etc. Think of yourself as a coach and your partner as a player.

Networking, networking, networking!

Every job seeker knows the importance of networking, so you can play an important role by leveraging your network as well. You can possibly double your active contacts by doing this.

Be thrifty but not cheap.

Of course, now is the time to cut back on expenses, but don’t deprive yourself or your family of the little things. You’re in a bind, not in prison, and you still deserve some indulgences.

In short, a team game.

All these considerations and arrangements are very important. Although job searching is always the job seeker’s responsibility, the support structure can make all the difference in the world.

This is the part that is up to you.