Searching for a job can be an emotionally challenging experience when looking for jobs in own city and own environment, it is even much more when trying to find a job in a new country, new health system and a new environment. From the initial excitement of exploring new opportunities to the frustration of endless applications and rejections, the job search journey often comes with its own challenges, along with set of ups and downs. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or discouraged during your job search for an overseas job, trust me you’re not alone. Many job seekers experience what’s commonly referred to as the “Job Search Blues”. But fear not! With the right mindset, approach and strategies, we can navigate together through this period with confidence and resilience. Here are some suggestions to help you overcome the “Job Search Blues”:

You probably want to consider Stetting Clear Goals and Priorities. This is YOUR Career and Your Livelihood. YOU are the only one who knows what you really want! So, before diving into your job search, take some time to define your goals and priorities. What type of role are you looking for? What hospitals and health systems are you interested in? What country you might or might not be willing to move to. By having a clear understanding of what you’re aiming for, you can focus your efforts more effectively and avoid wasting time on opportunities that aren’t the right fit for you.

Look, into Tailoring your application. One common source of frustration for job seekers is sending out countless resumes and cover letters without hearing back from employers. To increase your chances of success, make sure to tailor each application to the specific job and hospital you’re applying to. Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. This personalized approach demonstrates your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the position, making you a more compelling candidate.

Make sure you Read the Job Description Carefully and understood what the hospital is looking for. A Hospital might be looking for Orthopedic Surgeon with experience in Spinal Surgery, if you are an Arthroplasty surgeon, you probably don’t want to apply for this job.  So, when scanning through job listings, don’t just focus on the job titles or hospital name. Take the time to thoroughly read and understand the job descriptions. Pay attention to the qualifications, responsibilities, and any other requirements mentioned. This will help you identify opportunities that truly match your skills and interests, saving you from the disappointment of applying for positions that aren’t suitable for you.

With multiple applications and ongoing communications with potential employers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose track of where you stand in your job search. Stay organized by keeping a record of the jobs you’ve applied to, including the dates of application, follow-up actions, and any feedback received. This will help you stay on top of your applications and follow-ups, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any opportunities.

As mentioned earlier, Job searching can be mentally and emotionally draining, so it’s important to prioritize Self-Care and Mental Health during this time. Make sure to take breaks, engage in activities that bring you joy, and seek support from friends and family. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance and nurturing your well-being will help you stay resilient and motivated throughout your job search journey.

Try to Seek Feedback and Learn from Rejections. True, receiving rejection emails or hearing nothing back from employers can be disheartening, but try not to take it personally. Instead, use these experiences as opportunities for growth and learning. Reach out to recruiters or hiring managers for feedback on your application or interview performance. Use their insights to identify areas for improvement and refine your approach for future applications.

Above all, maintain a Positive Attitude and Stay Persistent in your job search efforts. Remember that finding the right opportunity takes time and perseverance. Celebrate your achievements along the way, whether it’s securing an interview or receiving positive feedback from an employer. Stay focused on your goals, and trust that your hard work and determination will pay off in the end.

When it comes to job applications, remember that it’s Quality, not Quantity, that counts. Instead of applying to every job opening you come across, focus on identifying and targeting positions that align closely with your skills, experience, and career goals. Investing time and effort into crafting tailored applications for a few select opportunities that are truly suitable for you is far more effective than submitting generic applications to numerous unrelated roles. By prioritizing quality over quantity, you’ll increase your chances of securing interviews and ultimately finding the right job fit for you.

In our following Blogs, we will dive into each suggestion above and give you tools to help with avoiding the “Job Search Blues”.