Looking for a new job can be fun and exciting, but it’s not uncommon to have some job search anxiety.
No matter your job search scenario, you can overcome job search anxiety and find your path to success by following a few suggestions:
Maintain your perspective
Your job search may take a little longer in uncertain economic times, but it won’t last forever. If you stick with it, eventually, you will find a job that puts some pep in your step and makes you happy.
Perspective is a buzzword these days and with good reason. Try to see your job hunt for what it is- a temporary situation and be patient. Becoming Overwhelmed will not get you a job.
Stay Positive.
Staying positive is important when you’re looking for a job, even if it feels hard at times. Remember nobody wants to hire a “Debbie Downer.”
Set up a job search routine with a schedule of when you’ll look for jobs at a set time every day. Enjoy the challenge of discovering new positions to apply for,and reward yourself when you’re done by engaging in the activities that make you happy.
Make a Plan
Create a job search plan to help you break your big goal into smaller, more manageable ones. For example, start by writing down your highlights and “wins” in each of your positions, then plan to update your resume and cover letter accordingly.
From there, you can update your LinkedIn profile, too, or find a way to reflect on what would make you happy in a job.
Do your Homework
If your concerns center on feeling unprepared, take action to reduce those negative thoughts Spend time researching the kind of position you want and the career path you hope to follow.
Search for companies that offer the kinds of jobs and cultures that are a good fit for you. Then learn all you can about those businesses and the people you would potentially work with and for. The more knowledgeable and prepared you feel in your job search, the more confidence will replace doubt in your mind. You’ll also save time because you know exactly what you want and only apply to jobs that are a good match for you and your skills.
Remind Yourself it’s a process
Finding a new job doesn’t happen overnight. If you don’t get an interview for the first job you apply to, remember submitting your resume is a number’s game.
Also know that recruiters have a lot to balance. For every one job posting they may receive hundreds of resumes for that job, it may take some time for the hiring manager to get back to you.
It’s easy to get down when you’re searching for a job without success. And that’s when negative self-talk can happen.
Studies have shown negative self-talk generally decreases your motivation and performance.
However, studies also indicate that if you use positive self –talk “I’m going to do great in this interview!, you’ll perform – and feel- better. So, do what you can to stay positive and upbeat during your job search. Employers will notice!
Becoming overwhelmed can set in when you only look ahead and not backward. From time to time, stop to reflect on how far you’ve already come in your job search.
It might be that you’ve had a few successful interviews under your belt, even if you didn’t get the job. Or perhaps you’ve learned how to answer those troublesome interview questions that can trip up any job seeker.
So don’t forget to stop and smell the roses once in a while and reward yourself for all the hard work you’ve already put in. It can give you some much needed confidence that can help carry you through the rest of your job search.
Our jobs are a big part of our identity, but we are so much more than just our jobs.
While searching for a new job can present challenges, remember that you can succeed. If you’re prepared, organized, patient, and positive, you may even find joy in your journey toward a position that will be an excellent fit for you and your career aspirations.
If you’re looking for help with your job search, consider meeting with a career coach. Like ME, I can help you find your footing and gain traction in your job search.
Book a Free Consultation session with me and let’s do this https://cindyfassler.com/contact/