How to conduct a stress free job search

A job search is stressful in itself. The combination of stepping out into something new with the uncertainty of landing a position is emotionally draining. It can take a long time to get a job offer.

In the meantime you have to afford housing, food and everyday bills. While you are unemployed finances are already tight, and debt builds. Plus, job hunting has its own set of expenses. You have to have money to go to interviews and buy an impressive interview outfit. Making ends meet only adds to the tension.

If you are looking while you are employed there is the worry someone will find out you plan to fly the coop. Returning calls and fitting in interviews can be a challenge. If resentful colleagues or your employer realises you are conducting a job search, they can make your work environment difficult. To stop problems avoid resentment you may have to do the bulk of your searching in the evening and on the weekends. This “second job” leaves very little time to relax or spend time with your family. The added strain can cause anxiety and stress.

Planning your job search efforts will go a long way to relieve your stress. It is the best way to stay focused without becoming overwhelmed. The first step is writing down a routine. Choose a time of day for each task you need to accomplish. For example, in the morning search the online jobs. Do this for a specified amount of time everyday. Perhaps in the afternoon you update your resume or set aside time for interviews. Setting aside chunks of time will help you keep everything under control.

While creating your schedule, leave room for personal time. If you don’t take time out for yourself the pressure from can make your efforts counter productive. The beauty of a schedule is you can find time to do more in a day than you once thought possible. Scheduling time for things you enjoy will help you stay confident and keep you motivated for your job search.

One thing job seekers should incorporate is an exercise routine. Physical activity relaxes your body and mid a builds a sense of accomplishment. It can be whatever you like, a morning run, water aerobics or lifting weight. As long as it makes you break a sweat you will release endorphins that naturally reduce stress. Reduce pent up frustration by making exercise part of your daily routine.

Part of the job hunting stress is trying to be perfect to impress employers. Of course you want to present yourself in the best light. However, trying to be perfect is setting you up for failure. You can alleviate pressure on yourself by setting realistic expectations. Your resume does not have to be perfection; it just has to grab their attention. You can prepare without stressing out over perfection. Fine tune your resume, do company research and practice your interview skills. The rest will fall into place.

You can also have a personal support group to help you relieve tension. Look at your close circle of friends and family to help motivate you. You should choose someone who is supportive and positive. Though they can give practical advice, you don’t want a taskmaster or someone who blames you when a position does not come through. Your personal cheerleader should foremost be a good listener. Someone who allows you to get your feelings off your chest goes a long way to reduce stress.

For an effective job search, you have to be enthusiastic and positive. Though the process is stressful there is no room for negativity. Be organised, take time out for yourself, forgive your mistakes and keep the right people in your corner. You will land the perfect job before you know it.