Are you feeling discouraged during your job search? Discouragement can come not only from how potential employers respond to your queries and applications, but also from your own self-assessment of skills. You might be wondering if you'll ever be good enough for the jobs you want. It's likely that you are also comparing yourself to other candidates who may seem more accomplished than you. How can you compete with them?

Reshape Your Narrative

You might be interested in reading a recent article posted to Mashable, discussing strategies that "underdogs" used to land a job. The advice the article offers often involves finding the right narrative, the right way to present yourself.

For example, if you have transferable skills from an unrelated field, highlight those. Incorporate them into the story of who you are, showing that you're versatile and flexible. Communicate genuine enthusiasm and potential.

You might also be concerned about past failures. Maybe you started a business or worked for a business that wound up folding. Remember that failure doesn't put you out of the running. As discussed in a recent article from Entrepreneur.com, employers may welcome people who have failed but have also learned from their mistakes. If you're in a job interview and are asked about past failures, you can discuss your experiences in a way that emphasizes your resilience and persistence. You weathered the storm, and you survived it. You learned a lot and have a lot to offer.

Be sure to contact us to further discuss concerns you have about what you think is a less-than-stellar track record. One of the ways we can help you find a job is to give you advice on how to present yourself in the best light instead of putting yourself down unnecessarily.