Those who have been out of the workforce for a prolonged period may feel tempted to respond to a large number of postings in hopes that they get a response. But this tactic, which is like throwing spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks, can ultimately serve to further discourage applicants who are struggling to find work.

That is because they either don’t hear back, or they do hear back but the opportunity isn’t a good fit.

Job seeking can be an isolating experience, especially for those who have been at it for a while, and that sense of loneliness can make it even harder to find success.

If people know what you’re looking for, or what you’re interested in or what you’re trying to figure out, there’s a greater chance that they might know of somebody or see something that can help you.

Job seekers who struggle to land a position often feel helplessly stuck in neutral, but there’s a lot they can do to drive their job search forward. Rather than focusing on the ultimate goal of landing a job, it’s important to establish a series of smaller and more manageable goals along the way.

Job seekers should also reward themselves for taking these small steps and celebrate the little accomplishments that will help them reach the bigger goal.

Much of the job application process is out of the candidate’s control, but those who are really struggling to land their dream job are encouraged to take a hard look at their strategy and consider what mistakes they might be repeating.

It can be how they talk about the old boss/company, something in the résumé or the interview style.

They can:

• Reevaluate their résumé and application materials.
• Ask for assistance from friends and family. Trying a few practice interviews with those who can provide honest feedback.
• Do not talk negatively about a prior employer. 

There really are only a small group of people who can say for sure why you weren’t selected for a given job, and those are the evaluators themselves, which makes their feedback incredibly valuable.

One can gently try asking: I had a wonderful time meeting you; sorry it didn’t work out. If I can ask, what would be one bit of advice you would give someone like me if they really wanted to get a job like the one I interviewed for?