Managing Job Search Stress

by Kassandra McGhee on September 17th, 2010

Finding a job is a job! And like any job, some level of stress is included in the package.  Even if it is simply stress associated with typical job search tasks, the reality is being unemployed can be stressful.  And often financial or family pressures can intensify your stress level.  Successfully managing your job search stress is key to an effective job search.  Here are a few tips:

1.    Manage Your Expectations

Make sure you have realistic expectations regarding your job search including how long it may take to find employment, effective search strategies for today’s job market, etc.  In today’s market, it may take longer than you think to find the job you are looking for.  Don’t “marry yourself” to a job even if the interview went great!  Always continue to look until a solid job offer has been presented and accepted.  Starting with realistic expectations will help ensure you don’t push yourself to meet unreasonable goals. 

2.    Develop A Job Search Plan

An effective job search plan starts with your career goal (ideal job) and a well-structured resume.  Then, make sure your job plan includes the following:

  • Job Search Schedule (40 hours per week)
  • Job Search Log (keep records of the “where, when, how & who” of your job search)
  • Target List (10 companies you would like to work for)
  • Job Search Strategies (include online, networking, cold calling, LinkedIn, etc.)

3.    Evaluate Your Progress

Evaluate your job search log weekly and assess what job search strategies are working.  Increase the activity that is showing the most progress and identify the following:

  • Number of contacts made
  • Number of applications completed/resumes submitted
  • Number of new contacts
  • Number of follow up calls/emails completed
  • Number of interviews

4.    Take Time Off

Make sure you take time to relax your mind and body.  It’s just like taking a lunch break or ending a shift at work, keep scheduled hours and take time for yourself.  If you don’t take care of you, you can’t successfully take care of the needs of your family or an employer.

Don’t be discouraged! Stay focused, organized and diligent.  The right opportunity is out there… 

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