It’s rough out there.  For each job that gets posted, up to ten times more applicants are applying than as little as a year ago. 

The chance of being rejected when applying to any given job is significantly higher.

Rejection can have harmful effects if we take it to heart.  We may feel inadequate, insignificant, or even invisible.    

The key to thriving in today’s job market – whether you have a job or are unemployed – is to focus on the things you can control.  And to keep the things you can’t control in perspective.

Things you can’t control:

1.    The state of the market.  Accept that it’s rough and prepare to play your “A” game.

2.    You are likely going to be disappointed at least once in this process. Maybe hundreds of times.  Rather than chalking that up as a loss, realize that it’s part of competing in today’s job market. It’s perfectly natural to feel disappointed.  Accept that, and you'll be able to move through the grieving process more quickly.

Things you can control:

1.    Apply for the right jobs.
Not the ones with the fancy titles that will make everyone else think you’ve made it.  Make sure the jobs are a match with the very best parts of you.  For example, if you thrive when working with people, make sure that’s a core element of the job.   And conversely, make sure not to apply for jobs that require much independent work.  Employers can spot these subtleties, so don’t waste your time dressing yourself up for an ill-fitting job.

2.    Know your product.
In the job search, you are the product. Your resume and cover letter are your marketing tools. Get explicit about how and why you’re a good fit for every job that interests you.  This will help you screen out the poor fits.  Be very deliberate about this process.  It will be clear - through your resume, cover letter and interview - how much thought you’ve given to it. 

3.    Perfect your resume and cover letter.
Okay, nothing's perfect. But make sure they’re immaculate - clear of errors and easy to read - edited by multiple people who have your best interests in mind.
Ensure that your cover letter is responsive to every skill and experience listed in the job description, required or desired.  If you have comparable skills or experiences, be explicit about why they're relevant.   The hiring manager wants to make sure you’re a good fit. It’s your job to convince them you're a great fit. 

4.    Leverage your network.
Give yourself an edge over other candidates.  The majority of jobs are secured through personal relationships.  Scour LinkedIn, the company’s annual report, its staff directory, and your network to find out who you know at the company.  Make a substantive personal connection.  The more people who are willing to advocate for you, the better your chances are of securing an interview.  The rest is up to you.

Note: it’s often better to make the connection before the job is available, when your contact may hear from multiple applicants.  Target the employers that interest you and make those connections now.

5.    Surround yourself with people who believe in you.
Have them tell you why they think you're amazing.  The better you feel about yourself, the better positioned you’ll be to sell yourself.  Conversely, negative people can drag you down.  Try to keep them out of your space - for now.  You can decide what to do about them once you've landed your dream job.

You’re clearly motivated if you’ve gotten to the bottom of this posting.  Now go get ‘em, tiger! I know you can do it!