Is searching for a job marking you feel a little…nutty? The Secret Squirrel knows how you feel. Whether you’re actively employed and itchy for a new opportunity, or between positions and need to get into a new job fast, searching for positions can be stressful. But just because you want or need a new job doesn’t mean you need to develop an ulcer. Here are a few points to consider to keep your job search stress low.
1. Find your job search scurry.
Did you know a group of squirrels is called a scurry? Just as a squirrel never searches for a nut alone, a job seeker shouldn’t fly solo. Searching for a job can be a lonely thing. Due to embarrassment, uncertainty, or sometimes just laziness, too often job seekers take on a ‘go-it-alone’ approach to searching for a job. But you really need to involve others in your job search process, whether it’s a spouse, a mentor, or another job seeker. In addition to helping you keep your eyes peeled for great openings, this person can help you proofread your cover letters and resume. Perhaps more important than anything, having a job search team can be a serious morale boost, as you’ll have someone to connect with about your frustrations and successes. And don’t forget – a recruiter is a great asset to your job search, and you should think of them as a team member and ally (just don’t expect them to proofread your cover letters – always send a recruiter a polished product).
2. stay active.
Have you ever seen a lazy squirrel? (Well, other than these guys). If you’re like many cleared professionals, finding time to hit the gym while working a busy schedule can be incredibly difficult. If you’re between gigs, there may be no better time to work out. And you don’t need an expensive gym membership to get a great work out. YouTube is a great resource for workout routines you can do from home. Another benefit? If you’re currently employed, working out may pay off with better health and a higher salary.
3. Never hibernate.
Contrary to some popular opinion, squirrels don’t hibernate – they just take advantage of long periods of rest and sleep during cold weather. Job seekers should take the same attitude – you should always be looking, but take advantage of scheduled periods of rest. That keeps you from getting overwhelmed and your job search from getting sloppy. In addition to a job search plan and a daily schedule, it’s important to set aside how much time you’ll spend searching and applying vs. networking with recruiters or conducting other job search activities. Spending hours searching and applying for jobs can lead to sloppiness – the kind of sloppiness that leads to stating the wrong company name on a cover letter or misspelling a recruiter name on an email. These mistakes may seem small, but they can cost you an opportunity.
4. beware excessive stress.
Ever seen a stressed squirrel? I didn’t think so. If you find yourself experiencing stomach problems, fatigue, trouble concentrating or chronic headaches, it may be time to put your job search on hold, or rethink your strategy. Chronic stress can plague unemployed job seekers or those trying to work two jobs – maintaining their current job while searching for a new job. If you find yourself stressed and overwhelmed, slow down. Focus on aspects of job searching you enjoy (there has to be something!) whether it’s spending time updating your profile, researching relevant companies, or joining industry groups. And take advantage of stress relieving activities like working out to help you cope.
You’ll probably never eliminate all of the stress of a job search – few of us are self-assured enough to have our capabilities rated and scored without taking it personally. But a few tips, from establishing a support network to creating a routine, can be a huge boon to any job search.
