A personal job search is just as volatile as the stock market.  You get some good news, maybe positive feedback from a phone interview and the hiring manager wants to schedule a face-to-face--the market is up.  Five minutes later another opportunity gets back in touch with you and it’s the end of the line--the market is down. Now it may not be Ben Bernanke calling you but there are so many touch points that can be positive or negative that it’s like riding an emotional pogo stick. 

It’s  impossible to keep a straight line on how you’re feeling during a rigorous job search.  A key tactic to managing the highs and lows is to find at least one “Coach”.  My advice is to find someone other than your significant other.  Your partner is the one you can vent to and say things you would never say to anyone else.  They allow you to burn off steam and can console you.  Your Coach, on the other hand, needs to be like a mentor or a highly respected peer, someone who knows you well enough to have a confidential and personal conversation, but can also kick you in the butt if you need it. 

I also think that asking someone to be your coach is important.  Let them know what your objectives are and ask if you can call them for advice before an interview and to debrief afterwards. It makes sense to have a couple of Coaches, that way you don’t burn anyone out. Other folks in job search mode can be great Coaches, and that way you can reciprocate. The thing is, at some  point in the job search everyone thinks they can do it on their own.  Job search is a full time job.  Isn’t it easier to get the job done with a team rather than flying solo?

Matt Gill

Senior Vice President

Pile and Company