When Brianna Doe isn’t busy building her own marketing agency, Verbatim, she provides free coaching and guidance to people looking for work.
She told CNBC Make It that some of the job seekers she works with have been looking for new jobs for over a year, or longer, and “the job market is ridiculous.”
Judging from the numbers, the U.S. labor market is strong on paper, with low unemployment and high job vacancies. But the experience of finding a new job remains difficult for many who face so-called “ghost job lists,” lengthy interviews or competition for early-career roles.
For those in the job market, the Department of Energy has an important tip: “It may be a little counterintuitive, but it’s actually about staying away from the computer.”
“I know you need a job; you need money. I don’t want to take that away,” she says in the preface. Having said that, she also stresses that “it’s important to prioritize mental health.”
This can be as simple as shutting down the computer at a set time each day, taking a walk, getting some fresh air, or doing “something affordable or free that brings you joy,” Doe explains.
“Just make sure you find some kind of balance,” she adds.
Taking breaks throughout your job search can pay dividends down the road.
“The longer you sit in front of the computer filling out application after application, you start to get bored, and it shows in the interview,” Doe said.
In addition to taking care of your mental and emotional help, Doe recommends being strategic about the resources you seek help from.
She often recommends ADP List, a free online platform that connects mentors and mentees in different industries.
“You don’t have to pay” to have a professional review your resume, help you practice your networking and interviewing skills, or provide other career advice, Doe said. “You can find people who are really willing to help.”
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