Time and again, people tell me how they are so frustrated by the job search process.  The process goes like this:

1. Go online.
2. Apply.
3. Wait.
4. Wait Some More.
5. Repeat

They never hear back.  Sure, the automated response explaining that the application was received is helpful, but a REAL LIVE PERSON almost never responds.  Almost never.  And why not? Can we really blame the companies?  THOUSANDS of people are applying for the same job.  Recruiters can't possibly have the time to review and respond to each and every application.  The process is so impersonal and - therefore - deeply frustrating to anyone looking for a job.

The search engines and aggregators like LinkedIn, Monster and Indeed are good for exactly that - searching.  These sites can help people figure out what's out there - what types of jobs are up for grabs, who is hiring, and (sometimes) how much they are paying.

So what should you do?

Honestly, it isn't easy.  And the process never move as fast as we want it to.

The best answer I have is to network network network.  But that isn't easy either.  That requires time, patience and - talking to the right people.  And sometimes to get to the right people, you need to talk - a lot.  And you need to talk to a lot of people.  It is hard to know who is going to open the door that leads to another door that leads to a door that leads to your next job.

I think when people think about networking for a job, they think about colleagues or ex-colleagues.  But networks are so much bigger.  Your networks could be college almuni, school parents, a friend's spouse, etc.  It could be someone you just start chatting with while watching a kid soccer game.

And this process leads to frustration and the frustration wears on you and -  unfortunately - it shows during interviews.

The biggest key to success is maintaining your confidence - believing in yourself.  I know this sounds like a bunch of crap but employers love love love confident people.  My husband showed me this firsthand.  He decided it was time to part ways with a company when they wanted us to move to all sorts of places that we didn't love.  Rather than take a role in a place that wouldn't be great for our family, he decided to take a break.  Actually - WE ALL took a break.  We took 6 months and traveled all over the US.  We didn't know where we were going to end up but we were loving our adventure and our family time.  We bought an RV and found our inner Griswald. 

Of course, he interviewed during that time. But rather than shy away by how we was spending his time, he OWNED it.  And companies loved it.  He got offered exec roles at multiple places before we picked one.  His belief in himself, his performance and what he could deliver helped him get the next job.  Not one place knocked him for taking time off to be with this family.  In fact, the companies ADMIRED him for it.

Not everyone can do that - I get that.  What impressed me about him was his ability to enjoy our adventure and not be stressed.  He wasn't at all worried about finding another role.  He was reading books about leadership and staying sharp.  He was fine tuning himself in the process.

So yes, the job search process is frustrating.  And yes, people are rude and don't respond.  But rather than get discouraged, find time for yourself.  Read a book.  Go for a hike. Visit friends.  Do something to stay centered.  It is ok to get down.  That is normal.  Just make sure to focus on picking yourself back up.

If you stay grounded and confident, the right door will open. It may take time - and it still takes networking - but you can do it.