Even before the “new normal”, job hunting has never been a walk in the park. It’s a torturously long and slow process that could drive anyone crazy. Constantly checking for new job ads or posts, editing your resume, drafting personalized cover letters, and refreshing your email every now and then in the hopes of any reply from a hiring manager or company, is enough to make you feel anxious, frustrated, and totally drained in the long run.
Unfortunately, you have no choice but to keep moving forward so you can land your dream job, no matter how difficult the process is. But it’s always easier said than done, especially when you’re feeling completely burnt out with your job search. So heed these three tips to effectively manage the stress brought about by your job hunting. Remember, your next company is just out there waiting for you!
1. Set daily limits.
Spending the entire day job searching isn’t healthy and can be counterproductive. Instead, allocate just a couple of hours searching jobs online, sending applications, and connecting with people, and then stick to that schedule. For example, spend only two to three hours on a weekday and then two hours on a weekend. Then make sure you are being as productive and efficient as you can within your dedicated time frame. This way, job searching will be less daunting since you’re breaking it into smaller, achievable tasks each day.
2. Take a break from your job hunt.
No, we’re not telling you to call it quits. But if you’re already experiencing the signs of job search burnout, remind yourself that it’s okay to take a short break. Taking a step back from your job hunt, whether it’s for a couple of hours or for a few days, doesn’t mean you’ll be wasting precious time not looking for a job. It can actually give you the much needed mental break from the entire process. After that brief hiatus, you’ll come back rejuvenated and with a fresh mind and attitude. For all we know, you might’ve even come up with a new strategy to boost your job search.
3. Ditch negativity and be patient.
Have a positive job search process throughout by letting go of negativity and self-doubt. In times like this, it’s even more challenging to look for a job. And the reality is that job hunting can be exhausting and frustrating. Nobody’s saying you need to be a walking ray of sunshine and positivity all the time. But you don’t want to get wrapped up in your negative thoughts that could cloud your focus and block your motivation. At the end of each day, find some inspiration, celebrate the progress you’re making, and remind yourself that you’re getting there, one step at a time. So keep your chin up and remember that it’ll all be worth it, especially once you received your much-awaited offer email or letter. #