8 Totally Overused Clichés That Will Actually Help Your Job Search

By Lily Zhang

It’s easy to scoff at any quote that sounds like something your uncle would say or you’d see on a motivational business poster, but doesn’t the fact that something becomes a cliché mean that there must be some truth in it? Why else would these phrases be repeated over and over again?

Before you dismiss these eight overused sayings, allow me to shed some light on how they might actually help you think about your job search in a new way.

1. The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side

Do you know someone who seemingly has the perfect career? Remember that it’s easy to have job-envy when you’re only seeing the social media (read: highlights reel) version of someone’s work and life. Before you decide to start job searching, make sure you have a full understanding of the pros and cons of positions you’re getting ready to apply for.

2. How Do You Eat an Elephant? One Bite at a Time

Whatever your reasons for job searching, at some point you’re probably going to feel overwhelmed. It’s OK—that feeling is normal, and it can be overcome. Rome wasn’t built in a day, you can’t eat an elephant in one bite, and you’re not going to find a job overnight, no matter how feverishly you’re applying for positions. Break it down to manageable chunks (our free, week-long “Kick Start Your Job Search” email class is a good start), and take it from there.

3. You Can’t Learn to Swim Without Getting in the Water

You also can’t get a job in a new field without knowing some people in that world! Truthfully, you can apply to jobs online all day and it won’t be nearly as effective as meeting people who know the ins and outs (and the hiring managers) of the companies you want to work for. So, get out there and network (or, better yet, meet people and get some hands-on experience at the same time through volunteering). Find industry events or conferences that need some extra hands, and get to it.

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