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Managing Job Search Stress and Lost Confidence

Author: Lavie Margolin, Career Coach

My grandmother always used to say “you think good, you get good”. Now while this not always true, I certainly think it rings true much of the time. Having a positive approach to your professional career and job search will go a long way. Can the job search be one of the most stressful things you will experience professionally? Certainly, but you have to stay as positive as possible. If you come across negative in the interview or when meeting others that can help you, it will only make things more challenging. Do your best to project a positive image and people will be drawn to you. Fairly or unfairly, people do not respond well to those who are negative. This is true in any type of situation: interviewing, networking or even dating. Focus as much as possible on the positives: your history of accomplishment, your knowledge gained and the people you have helped along the way. Remember: it only takes one good breakthrough and success can be just around the corner!

One of the most difficult parts of the job search is when we have to show confidence when we are least likely to have it. When we are not working, it can feel like we have lost the skills that we once had and are disconnected from the working world.  Some things to remember:

1) Just because you are not working (or not working in a job that fully utilizes your skills), does not mean you no longer have those skills
2)  If you have a hard time describing your accomplishments, think of how you would like a good friend or family member to describe you. Explain things as if you are that person
3) Companies write intimidating job descriptions. Do not self illuminate because there are many qualifications listed. Take the time to review the description and carefully examine if you could fit into the position
4) There is an expected learning curve once you start a job. Even if you have an expertise in the job that you are accepting, you must still learn the company culture and how to best interact with co-workers, supervisors and customers. You will have a grace period to acclimate to the job and regain your confidence.

Take it one day at a time. The following has always been helpful for me in stressful situations: “If I can get through today then I can get through tomorrow. If I can get through tomorrow, then I can get through the next day”. The right breakthrough is just around the corner.  

About the Author: Lavie Margolin is a New York-based Career Coach and the author of Lion Cub Job Search: Practical Job Search Assistance for Practical Job Seekers. To learn more, go to Lavie’s website, Lion Cub Job Search: www.Lioncubjobsearch.com

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