What to do if your job search is making you anxious

If you have felt stressed or anxious when looking for a new job, you are far from alone. Anxiety when job searching is common, especially among neurodivergent people and those suffering from anxiety disorders.

So, what are some tips to reduce anxiety while looking for your dream role?

Manage your job search tasks

Try to break the job search down into manageable tasks. For example, set aside time to work on your resume, then take a break before setting aside time to work on your cover letter.

Focus on what you can control

It is easy to focus on factors that are outside your control, such as whether your application will be successful.

However, Instead, you should focus on things you can control, like how to make your application the best it can possibly be.

Read success stories

If you need inspiration, read stories about people who have overcome obstacles to land their dream role.

Set goals and deadlines

Set manageable goals and deadlines on your path towards a job. Even if it takes a bit of time to find a job, achieving small goals along the way will help boost your self-esteem and wellbeing.

Reward your successes

Even if you haven’t yet landed your dream role, it’s ok to celebrate your successes along the way.

Try not to compare yourself to others

When you apply for a role, you know there will be other applicants. It’s common to start thinking about applicants and the skills the have. This can cause you to doubt your qualifications and experience. Instead, focus on the unique attributes you can bring to the role and how best to showcase these.

Practice self care

Make sure you take time out of your job search to participate in activities you enjoy. For example, reading a book or cooking your favourite meal. Exercise is a great way to boost your mental and physical wellbeing, so consider going for a walk outside while on a break from your job search.

Know your triggers

Identify the parts of the job search that make you the most stressed and try to incorporate measures to implement these. For example, if interviews make you feel stressed start preparing as early as possible, before you have even landed an interview. If not hearing back from employers makes you anxious, consider asking employers when you can expect to hear back from them.

Put things into perspective

Remember, your job search won’t last forever. Plenty of people have been in your situation before, and more will be in the future. If a company doesn’t get back to you, take it as a sign that they weren’t the right fit for you. Perhaps your dream role is just around the corner.

Ask for help

Consider asking people who have been in a similar situation to you for assistance. What worked for them, and what didn’t? This can provide reassurance and a great learning opportunity. It might be worth considering professional expert assistance in a job search. For example, if you are struggling to prepare a job application consider using a professional resume writing service. If you ae struggling to prepare for an interview, consider an interview skills coach.

Importantly, if you feel your job search is really getting on top of you and you are unable to cope with the resulting anxiety, you should consult a mental health professional.

Are you looking for a new career? If the job application process is leaving you stressed, you aren’t alone. Public Service Resumes can help take the stress out of landing your dream role. We are pleased to offer various services, including our selection criteria and cover letter writing service.