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If your mind is not sharp for job interviews, and meeting important people, then you’re dull. No excuse.
Many people go the job interview unprepared, and others just not ready to respond directly to areas of competency. I’ve seen it happen too often.
Here are suggestions to keep your mind active and engaged:
1. Read articles, blogs, and tweets related to your industry
If you do not target a career, and are just looking for a job, you are missing an opportunity to expand your perspective, know the latest technology, and engage industry related hot topics.
2. Read books, I mean the 200-400 pages or more books!
We become pretty dull keeping up with the latest television show or catching up on seasons missed of our favorite show. It’s a good time to read 200-400 page books that go into depth. You choose the subject, but read something that you can implement immediately and often.
3. Hit the Gym/Catch up on health related appointments/Take care of health
Improving your health will always shift to your mind as well as your heart. Memory retention and cognitive reasoning. More importantly, stay healthy for the right reasons. If your unemployed and extra income opportunities are sparse, then it is best to take care of self first.
4. Update certifications and computer skills
In 2014, there is no excuse in failing to find courses (even college level) to take (wait for it, wait for it) for free. MIT and Cambridge are just two universities offering free college courses. If you look around enough, there are city and community colleges that offer evening classes that are worth invest $25 to $70 dollars.
5. Iron sharpens iron relationship
It helps when there is a professional relationship that will help you become sharper, smarter, stronger, and better all of the way around. Partner with someone whom you consider on the same professional track you are and help each other with your goals and aspirations.
6. Networking
Everything is networking at this point. You turn to the person behind you in line and start talking. What that may mean is dressing like you are not going to vegetate on the couch for the rest of the day when running to the store for milk.
7. Listen to podcasts
Good podcasts in the unemployed phase in your job search seem like classes or webinars. That is what my podcast attempts to do–educate. Good podcasts engage your thoughts and drive you to improvement and empowerment.
Suggestions? How are staying sharp during your job search? Let us know.
About Mark Anthony Dyson
I am the "The Voice of Job Seekers!" I offer compassionate career and job search advice as I hack and re-imagine the job search process. You need to be "the prescription to an employer's job description." You must be solution-oriented and work in positions in companies where you are the remedy. Your job search must be a lifestyle, and your career must be in front of you constantly. You can no longer shed your aspirations at the change seasons. There are strengths you have that need constant use and development. Be sure you sign up to download my E-Book, "421 Modern Job Search Tips 2021!" You can find my career advice and work in media outlets such as Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, and many other outlets.