Fear is a roadblock that crops up and stops all forward progress. It’s the voice that sneaks up to tell you that you can’t do this, or that bad things might happen if you do that. It’s no surprise looking for a job is hard when fear is everywhere in your search.
If you don’t actively combat it, it can stop you cold. Here are some tips to spot fear when it shows up for you and keep forward progress towards your next job.
Applying for Jobs
When it is time to apply for jobs, a lot of worries can arise. A couple of big ones are fears about being qualified or good enough for a job and the second is just over-thinking the resume and application themselves. Let’s take those fears one at a time.
- Am I qualified?
You can calm this fear by reading each job description carefully. Most employers will list which job requirements are a must, and which would just be a plus or a bonus. If you meet the basic requirements and could make a compelling case in your resume and cover letter why you would be a good fit for the job, then apply.- Bonus tip: If you are changing careers, make sure to focus your cover letter and resume on the skills and experience you have that are transferrable and relate directly to the position.
- Overthinking your resume
Once you’ve put together your resume, take the time to have someone you trust look over it as well. Be careful not to put so much time into writing your resume that you miss important application deadlines or take time away from actively applying. Keep in mind when you are budgeting time to apply, that you may also have to fill out an application in addition to submitting a resume. It can be hard to know when you are finished with something as important as a resume, but a good rule of thumb is if you have covered all of the relevant points that you need to emphasize for the position you are applying for and you are confident that the document is free from errors, then you are finished. If you can’t get to this point, consider finding help from a friend or professional resume writer.
Networking
Fears surrounding networking can be intense. One way to combat these fears is to start in an environment where you are more comfortable. For example, taking a friend or colleague with you to a meeting or event of a professional association you belong to can be less overwhelming than an event held solely for networking sake (and might be more targeted and beneficial as well). Having a friend there the first time or two for moral support can help, but be sure to strike out on your own once you’ve got your confidence up. Use your “wingman” sparingly; it can be harder to start conversations with someone new if you are focused on the person you already know.
Interviewing
Once you get called for an interview, the excitement can be overwhelming. When the initial rush of energy fades, the negative inner dialogue can start making you dread the day. To combat your fears, prepare to the best of your ability and then do what you can to relax. Take a walk, read a book, meditate—do whatever it is to relax and help recharge you to make a good impression when you walk in the door. The knowledge that you’ve practiced and researched beforehand should also help calm you a little.
It is natural to still have some jitters on the day of your interview, so keep in mind these last few things:
- Everyone else interviewing for the job will be nervous too
- The interviewer(s) want you to do a good job and are rooting for you (even if you can’t tell)
- You can use that nervous energy to convey excitement and enthusiasm for the job. After all, who doesn’t want to hire someone that’s happy to be there?