7 surefire strategies to beat the anxiety of job-searching
Shannon Mullen joins KANNY from Dallas, TX, as a guest contributor this week. Shannon is an experienced Executive Recruiter and lives her twin passions for yoga and helping people. Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn.
We’ve all been there. You’re enjoying the weekend, and then suddenly it’s 7 PM on Sunday, and out of nowhere, anxiety kicks in. That inner voice in your head starts chattering, and you realize the Sunday Scaries are back.
Facing the Sunday Scaries when you are unemployed hits differently. Instead of dreading the return to work, you are faced with the crippling anxiety of another week of uncertainty.
Before I go any further, let’s talk about something really important. Sometimes our ego gets in the way of humility. You’re likely not out of a job because of a lack of ability or work ethic. If you’re honest with yourself, you may recognize that this role might have run its course. Your next role will hopefully align more closely with your long-term goals. When exploring potential employers – and the people who represent them – look for signs of integrity. Look for respect. Look for honesty. Look for humility. People and organizations who value character will value you.
In today’s crazy job market, the never-ending cycle of applying for positions and facing rejections can feel overwhelming. Since this isn’t my first rodeo, I thought I’d share some strategies that have helped me ease some of those anxieties.
1. Keep a Monday – Friday routine – Treat Monday through Friday as your office days dedicated to hunting for work and making new connections. While networking has been the way I’ve landed my past few jobs, it’s important to cast a big net. Balance your time between applying for jobs and utilizing your network.
2. Rest on the Weekends – You might feel the urge to apply to positions during the weekends, but it’s important to take breaks. A lot of job postings currently receive hundreds of applications and those submitted over the weekend may get buried. Work life balance during your job search is important so treat weekends as time to relax.
3. Prioritize Your Health – Exercise can be a game changer. Whether it’s yoga, weightlifting, or just getting some sunshine, staying active can really help lower your stress. There are plenty of free online workout videos if gym membership isn’t in the budget.
4. Connect with Others – You are not alone. There are thousands of others in the same situation who can offer support and a listening ear. Utilizing your community for advice and emotional support can really help to ease your stress. (and it could potentially lead to your next role)
5. Be Kind to Yourself – No seriously, give yourself a little grace. There is nothing wrong with you and you did nothing wrong. Unemployment can impact anyone at any time. It’s important to practice compassion during this time.
6. Seek Advice from Recruiters & Coaches – Connect with Recruiters & Career Coaches. You would be surprised to see how many strangers are willing to lend a helping hand for free!
7. Stay Positive I know this is easier said than done. It’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a hole you can’t climb out of, but remember, progress often requires taking steps back. Rejection is redirection. Your next role might surprise you and open doors you never imagined.
Searching for a job in today’s unstable market can be challenging, but hopefully with these little tips you can manage to take the scary out of your Sundays.
Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn.