Reduce job hunting stress
Searching for a new job can be fun and exciting - but it can also be anxiety inducing. Here's our top tips for keeping stress levels to a minimum and staying motivated when job hunting.
1. Manage your tasks
Applying for jobs can feel overwhelming. You can get on top of this by coming up with a plan and then breaking down the tasks into manageable chunks and tackling them one by one. Set yourself achievable deadlines like updating your CV or finding a set amount of opportunities by a certain date.
2. Manage your time
If you let it, finding a new job can become a full time occupation in itself. Keep it under control by setting yourself a certain amount of time each day - or each week - that you will completely dedicate to the job search. Once that time is over, reward yourself with something you like to do - even better if it's something that's good for your mental health like working in the garden or visiting the gym.
3. Manage your expectations
Remind yourself applying for a job is a process and it will take time. It's very rare to get the first job that you apply for and that's ok. Keep positive and be proactive - if your initial application isn't getting you anywhere, take another look at the CV you're sending out and see if there's anything you could improve. Remember: you will get there in the end.
4. Practise, practise, practise
If your anxiety is coming from the thought of a job interview, the best way to deal with that is to prepare. Do your homework on everything you can, from the organisation (and a quick glance at the website won't cut it) to the interview panel. You can find common interview questions on the internet to practise - make sure you know how you'd answer them, especially more challenging questions. However don't over rehearse - leave room to improvise and be yourself [link to https://nexjob2.webflow.io/post/job-interviews].
5. Ask for help
Talk to friends and family about what you're going through and ask them to share experiences they have of the job search process. It's good to remember that you're not alone - others you know will have been in the same position that you are now. You could get support from a career coach or counselor who will be able to help you prepare a strong CV and covering letter and show you how to target your search. Don't forget the companies you're applying to - if you're not getting anywhere, don't be afraid to ask why.
