Battling Job Search Anxiety

Being in the job market is stressful. If you find yourself dealing with job search anxiety, know that you’re not alone. There isn't one “right way” to conduct a job search, but there are little things that you can do to help make your search more manageable and effective. Regardless of the circumstances that brought you here, the hardest part is getting started. Here are 4 ways to help you manage job search anxiety and see faster results:

1. Make a Plan and Get Started—Now!
Identify what you find most stressful and give that some attention. Most of the time when we feel overwhelmed, it’s because we’re not sure how to take that first step. The first step may be updating your resume or it may be checking out job postings in your area to get a feel for what is available (this can also give you resume ideas). Once you’ve taken the first step, continue taking other small steps in that direction.

2. Ask For Help
When faced with a stressful task or situation, the three best words you can hear are: “I’ll Help You.” Find someone you trust to help you with your search and encourage accountability. Friends, relatives, neighbors, former teachers, and mentors are great people to ask. Whether it’s writing and editing your resume to gear it toward jobs you want, or finding someone to sit with you for moral support while you complete applications and write cover letters, don’t underestimate the value of emotional support. It’s easier to act in a stressful situation when you have someone you trust to help you.

3. Take Consistent Action
To see results, you must work your job search consistently. If you’re applying sporadically, you won’t see much movement. Strive to apply to a minimum of 5-8 jobs per week. Set designated time to follow-up on applications, send LinkedIn networking notes, and search for new positions in your area. A successful job search is worked every day.

4. Utilize Your Network
We always say the best way to get a job is by utilizing the contacts in your existing network. If you’re just applying to jobs blindly online, you’ll quickly get discouraged and this will add to your anxiety. Talk to people you know and ask for connections and introductions to people they know. Having a connection is critical and it makes a big difference in getting your resume out of a database and onto the desk of the right person.

 Good Luck!