By Dr. Elise Carrier
Edited by Joe Van Allen
Are you feeling overburdened, disheartened, or frustrated in your job search? You are not alone. The emotional toll of job hunting is real, and your mental and physical health matters throughout the process.
Looking for work can feel like a full-time job, and be full of uncertainty, rejection, and self-doubt. It is easy to fall into a vicious cycle of endless applications, comparison, and burnout. By approaching your search with intention and self-compassion, you can reduce stress, protect your energy, and improve your confidence and performance. Making space for your wellness can be the key to your success. Here are a few tips to boost your well-being during the job search.
1. Find your rhythm
Mapping out your day when searching for a job helps you stay grounded, engaged, and resilient. As with regular exercise, progress comes from consistency. Creating time in your day for company research, interview preparation, resume review, and cover letter writing will reduce your anxiety by giving you control over the job search process.
2. Pinpoint your people
When we talk about your "network", we mean anyone who might be willing to share professional knowledge and resources with you: this can be a professor or co-worker, but it could also be a friend from high school or your aunt's neighbor. Leveraging your network when job hunting is vital because it can lead to unexpected chances and hidden opportunities. Learning to talk about your professional self, identifying people in your network, and understanding the resources they have to offer can lead to valuable advice and encouragement. The adage “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” has validity: networks are frequently the most underutilized tool in the job search, so take the time to engage and receive help from others.
3. Recognize your efforts, not just your outcomes
Frustration and self-doubt might result from getting sucked into the bad parts of the job search, such as rejection emails, unanswered applications, and setbacks. What if we shifted our focus and celebrated our efforts instead? By recognizing the volume of applications submitted, interviews attended, and connections made through networking, we create a more positive and empowering narrative that inspires drive and persistence. Even when your efforts don't result in getting a job, recognize that you've improved your application, interview, and personal skills, all of which will better prepare you for the next job!
4. Fuel your process
Managing a job search is exhausting and stressful, but taking care of yourself can give you a leg up on the competition. Eating healthy foods, regular exercise, and quality sleep help you stay sharp, focused, and strong. Maintaining your mental and emotional well-being is not a luxury during a job search: it is a necessity.
5. Focus on what you can control
Remember, it is your job search, and you hold the power to shape your journey. Instead of getting caught up in things outside of your control, focus on the things you can do. Be proactive by crafting tailored resumes, making connections, and preparing for interviews. This approach will help you keep your eyes on what is possible, instead of waiting for opportunities.
Everyone’s job search is unique and comes with its own challenges. If you find yourself struggling, please reach out to your career team or alumni career resources for support.
Dr. Elise Carrier is an experienced higher education professional with an unwavering passion for empowering individuals to realize and achieve their professional aspirations. In her role as the Associate Director for Career and Professional Development at The Career Hub, Elise is instrumental in the creation and implementation of a diverse spectrum of career programs.