I was just speaking to a client the other day, and she mentioned how difficult and stressful her job search was. She was working 10-12 hours a day which left her tired and frustrated, and she didn’t have the time she needed to get her desired results.
So, what do you do? How do you manage the daunting task and overwhelm of building a resume, organizing your job search, working, and not losing your sanity?
Stay Organized
It is a proven fact that people who stay organized reduce stress. Any job search, whether you are choosing to make the change or forced to change, is difficult. Start an Excel spreadsheet and list the jobs applied for, company name, date, brief description, and copy and paste the full ad into a word document. If you only save the link, when the ad is removed, you can no longer access the information online.
When you keep track through excel and word, you can easily review the job description before the interview. You can also search the company on Google for additional preparation.
Don’t be afraid to get professional help
Hiring someone to write a professional document and breathe life into your resume, LinkedIn summary, and cover letter is an excellent investment in your career. I find the majority of people struggle with writing their resume and need a professional to bring a fresh insight into their career and experience. The expression “too close to the forest to see the trees” is often correct. Examine the areas where you need the most help. Does your resume truly bring to light your accomplishments? Is it focused? Do you struggle with interviews? Is there a gap or two in your employment and you’re not sure how to handle it in your resume or interview?
Results of working with a professional
The majority of my clients are landing jobs in 4-8 weeks, and an average of $10,000 annual pay increase. This cuts through time, lost wages, dealing with unemployment that barely covers the bills, stress on your health, and relationships.
Career counseling
I’ve met some wonderful people, and before working together concerning their resume they needed some clarity regarding the direction of their career. I recently partnered with a fantastic career counselor and coach, for those located in the Portland metro region in Oregon, Andrea King with Careerful Counseling Services. Andrea can assist with a new career path, identify and remove barriers, and help make changes. Visit her at www.careerful.com for additional information. She provides the coaching, and I write the resumes. I highly recommend her.
Stress Reduction Techniques
Breathe and stay calm. It might sound stupid, but when you are stressed you take shallow breaths. Deep breathing releases not only toxins in your body, but releases tension as well. When the negativity is taking over your thoughts, stop for 68 seconds and think positive thoughts. This helps shift from stress and into a positive mindset. Do it as often as you find yourself anxious, mad, sad or frustrated. If you think a negative thought during those 68 seconds, start over. After doing this several times a day for a few weeks, you will automatically begin seeing things in a more positive light, including your job search.
Get focused
Schedule dedicated time each day to connect with people who can further your job search. Post your resume on indeed and other websites, update your LinkedIn profile showing you are available for opportunities, and apply for jobs. A job search is a job in itself so dedicate a few hours each day sending out your resume and connecting with others. Basically, lather, rinse repeat.
Make time for some fun
Most people are on a budget, especially if they are not working so find something fun and relaxing that has nothing to do with a job or lack of. It is a proven fact when someone takes a break, does something relaxing and even mundane the subconscious assists with problem-solving. Take a walk outside and soak up some sun. 15 minutes of sunshine is a good dose of Vitamin D that assists in mood elevation, and it is summer time so get some exercise. The doctors are saying sitting is the new smoking”. In other words, sitting all day is just as detrimental to your health. To be prepared and move into your new career and job, be ready and take care of yourself.
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Jennifer Owenby offers her combined expertise as a recruiter along with training as a professional resume writer. Please visit ONB Professional Resume Services for additional information and scheduling an appointment. Also visit here for LinkedIn Profile Services.