By Patrina Pellett, PhD (Follow me on LinkedIn)

The MSL job search process is a rollercoaster of emotions. For most folks, there tends to be some ups and A LOT of downs. It's hard to stay positive when you:

• Submit application after application and get radio silence
• Make it to the final round of interviews and hear crickets
• Don't do so well during an interview or never get any interviews

What can you do when you are feeling discouraged by what feels like endless setbacks and rejections? Here is how to rise about MSL job search setbacks: make a plan for when you feel like giving up.

How To Rise Above MSL Job Search Setbacks

What Most Aspiring MSLs Don't Do During the MSL Job Search

A lot of aspiring MSLs throw themselves into the tactical execution of landing an MSL role:

• Figuring out how to make an industry CV
• Finding jobs to apply for
• Networking with MSLs, hiring managers, and recruiters
• And more

What they don't do is prepare their mindset for the job search process. It can be long and discouraging. It's not going to be fun all the time. There will be times when you feel really bad and discouraged. This is when most people just give up.

If you plan for this happening, you will bounce back more quickly and improve your chances of getting your dream job.

How to Rise About MSL Job Search Setbacks: Make a Plan For When You Feel Discouraged

Anticipate that things are going to get rough and make a plan for what you will do. Get more tips on how to write out your plan in my article, Plan For When You Want To Quit.

There isn't one right answer. Everyone's plan will look different. The idea is to be mentally prepared and figure out what works for you.

I spent 3 months hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2023 and this was a pro tip I learned from another hiker. Things got rough out on the trail and it was really easy to quit. Having a plan in place made all the difference. When I felt myself getting discouraged, I opened up my plan and went through the list.

Conclusions

Having a plan for how to rise above MSL job search setbacks will help you stay in the game. Don't neglect the mental aspects of the job search. This simple trick of having a plan will help you stay motivated and bounce back more quickly.

Give this tip a try a let me know how it works for you! I love hearing your stories.

Please share how you stay in the game mentally on the MSL Mastery LinkedIn page.

More Resources

Don't underestimate the power of your mindset during the MSL job search. If you find yourself feeling discouraged a lot and need a community cheering you on, enroll in the Aspire MSL program. There is a whole module on developing a winning mindset.