Not too many people really work well alone. Unfortunately, this is exactly what happens from day to day in your job search efforts. You are sitting at home, alone, making phone calls, writing cover letters and doing research. The atmosphere of a team environment has drastically changed to more like a 'sick day' and most people can easily fall into that trap without a Job Search Buddy.

Make sure that this person is positive and challenges you. So often we can become distracted or dismayed in our job search. It can be anything from sleeping in, to watching our favorite tv show or hanging out on social networking sites. Only you can be accountable for your job search efforts at the end of the day.

For those out of work and looking for a job, staying motivated can be feel impossible at times. With a good Job Search Buddy you can rest assured that you will be held accountable for your day as well as having someone to bounce ideas off and who can celebrate with you over your daily accomplishments.


Here's some criteria for finding the perfect Job Search Buddy.

Your buddy can be working or looking for a job too. Either way, they need to be positive and upbeat.

Make sure your Buddy knows what your expectations are in your job search such as salary, position, commute, etc.

If you start to slack off, your Buddy needs to know that they have permission to 'butt in' and help you through your slump.

Seek out someone who is in a different field. You don't want to be looking for the same types of jobs.

Find someone who is even MORE motivated than you are. Now is not the time for making friends. You are looking for someone who can be firm with you yet sympathize when you get those nasty rejection letters. 

Talk about your goals and what you expect from the other person. Check-in with each other weekly to report on your progress. 

Keep an eye out for opportunities that the other person would be interested in and have them do the same for you.

Rehearse interview questions together. Share and critique each other's résumés and cover letters. Share networks and swap names and information. 

Attending networking events can be a lot less stressful when you bring your Job Search Buddy. Make sure that you divide and conquer at the event. Agree to meet back at a certain time to share information with each other. You may even find contacts for each other so agree to introduce each other and speak on each other's behalf. 

Take some of the stress out of your job search efforts by challenging each other, practicing for interviews and discussing what you feel you could have done better after an interview. Your buddy can also be your  shoulder if you don't get your dream job and feel like you need a pint of ice cream. Having a Job Search Buddy on your side to support you no matter what can make your job search efforts a lot easier and take a lot of the stress of being unemployed off of your shoulders.