How Your Attitude Defines Your Job Search

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Zig Ziglar once said, “Your attitude determines your altitude.” He couldn’t be more right.

I remember when I lived next to an exceptionally grouchy old neighbor. No matter what, I always said “hello” when I spotted him outside sitting on his porch.

“How are you doing?,” I would venture.

His response?

“Just TERRIBLE.”

It never varied. Day after day, the same reply.

And he sat alone on that porch, day after day.

I never did see him smile or look happy.

And that kept me and other neighbors away. We tried reaching out, but his attitude was so awful that everyone finally gave up.

Now, imagine that in a job search.

Yes, looking for a job, especially when you aren’t working, really sucks.

But so does a bad attitude. Do you really think that people want to be around someone who is grouchy and negative all the time?

I didn’t think so.

Keeping an upbeat attitude (despite the occasional pity party) is critical to your success. Positive attracts positive. Negative simply repels everything it comes into contact.

Your attitude soaks into everything you do – how you talk, how you walk, how you look someone in the eye, how you respond, how you engage.

Your attitude, truly, is everything. It defines you and your job search.

So, pick up the pieces, and keep going, and don’t become that grouchy old neighbor who ended up being all alone.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

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2 Comments

1. 

   Josh Tolan

   January 18, 2013 at 1:42 PM

   This is a great post. It can be easy to become negative and discouraged on the job hunt, especially if you’re unemployed. But this negativity will show in everything you do, whether it’s networking or connecting with an employer in a video interview. Keeping a positive attitude will take you a lot farther in the job search than giving into the blues.

   Reply
2. 

   Megan Burkett

   January 18, 2013 at 10:45 AM

   Thank you for sharing this Dawn. I completely agree and can actually testify to this situation! It is amazing how your outlook and approach on the situation can directly impact results and outcomes. I always say- you recieve the energy you project. It is important to feel empowered and enjoy the job search journey.

   Reply