4 Healthy Expectations To Ensure A Positive Job Search

Searching for a new job can be a stressful and discouraging process. When that position is in ministry, it can be particularly stressful, especially when you add in the spiritual component. Setting proper expectations for yourself is crucial in maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process.

Here are four healthy tips and expectations to keep you on the right track.

1. Be Prepared For Rejection

More than likely, we have all been through the process of applying for tons of jobs before finally landing that interview and eventual hire. Sometimes you are in a season of transition in which you apply for five jobs and then land your next role. In other seasons, you might apply for over a hundred jobs and not even get an interview. While it’s tough to put yourself out there, it’s important to not take a job rejection personally even if you felt as if you were the ideal candidate.

"While it’s tough to put yourself out there, it’s important to not take a job rejection personally even if you felt as if you were the ideal candidate." 

2. Check the Church or Hiring Website for Communication Practices and Timelines

Every church and hiring organization is going to manage their communication differently. Make sure you check the application first so you have a good sense of the process. Just because it’s been a few weeks and you haven’t heard anything, you shouldn’t assume the worst.

Searches and hiring processes can take anywhere from a few months to a year depending on the role. Though we do our best here at Vanderbloemen to send out regular updates throughout the search process, you should not expect it as a regular practice by all churches and organizations. I’ve applied for several roles from which I never received responses or information. Unfortunately, it’s just a part of the process and you have to rely on patience and trust.

3. Expect to be Researched

If you are a good candidate for the role you are applying for, the church will do research on you. Have you googled yourself? Have you had an impartial person look over your social media? Expect the church or organization to do some research on you before they even reach out.

On the flip side, have you done your research on the church you are applying to work for? Do you know as much about their background as they do about yours? This is a very important tip to focus on before moving forward into interview stages.

4. Understand You’re not the only Candidate

A church or organization in the midst of hiring is not just looking at your resume; they are also looking at other applicants. Sometimes it’s hard to understand why you didn’t even get an interview when you seemingly would be a great fit for the role. It’s likely because there were other candidates with backgrounds closer to the bull’s eye and not because you were lacking a particular quality or skill.

It can be a daunting process to search for a new ministry role. Throughout this process, make sure you are dedicating time to scripture, prayer, and communication with close friends and family that are supporting you during your search. With time, patience, and appropriate perspective, you never know when the right role will come along.

What expectations have you found helpful to set as you have searched for a new job?

Similar: The 5 Habits of Highly Effective Job Seekers