Job Search Stress

Job search stress is real

If you are currently looking for a job, you know what it is like to feel pressure. Juggling responsibilities, finances, time constraints, waiting, and other issues make the hunt for a new job arduous. Job search stress is very real. Learning how to handle the every day frustrations can make a big difference in how you feel, how well you do in interviews and how long your job search lasts.

Coping with stress offers this and so much more.

To find relief from the pressure of finding a job, look at the list below. It provides excellent advice which will allow you to take an active approach to eliminating some of the anxiety you might find yourself feeling.

Try these ideas to alleviate job search stress:

• Preparation - When you have taken the time to write an excellent resume, cover letter and whatever additional materials you might have prepared, you already understand how much that can alleviate your stress. Make sure your credentials are prepared with the utmost attention to detail. In addition to this, you will also need to be primed for the interview process. Practice answering the questions before you ever set foot into the employer's door. That includes the question about how much you expect to make at your next job. Be prepared for every possible aspect of the job-search process.



• Positive self-talk - As you go through the various aspects of finding a new job, keep your attitude healthy and your internal conversations (it's ok, we all have them) POSITIVE. If it helps, write out a handful of positive thoughts on 3X5 cards and read through them every once in awhile.



• Practice visualization - You can start this process even before you get a call for an interview. Close your eyes and play out the entire interview in your mind. Rehearse the answers to the questions you are most likely to be asked. Envision your smile, warm handshake, poised appearance and positive attitude all the way to the conclusion of the interview where you shake hands again, genuinely thank the interviewer for his/her time and confidently make your way out of the office. The more you do this, the more your mind will strive to create the event as it has happened in your visualization experience.



• Prioritization - You probably already know this, but looking for a job can be a major job in itself. There are so many aspects to consider. Take some time to think through each activity and rank it according to its deadline and/or its importance. Obviously, a resume is a high priority item. Networking with your alumni association would probably be a little further down the list.



• Prayer/Meditation - Being at peace is very important. However you choose to achieve a state of inner comfort, set some time aside to do so. Rest, calm your mind, and let go of the chaos of each day. This will allow you to release the stress and preserve your peace of mind.

Looking for a job creates a great deal of anxiety. Job search stress is very real. It is not easy to find a great job. There is so much to consider and even more to do throughout every step of the process. When you learn how to deal with it, you can be better prepared to face each day of the career search.

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