5 Ways To Manage Job Hunting Stress

Job hunting isn’t always easy and can actually bring quite a bit of stress to your life. This is even more pronounced if you have lost your job and need immediate income. The general idea is to stay calm and remain in a positive state throughout the process. Though that may be easier said than done, there are some things you can do to manage job hunting stress.

Manage Job Hunting Stress #1: Stay Balanced with Time and Responsibilities

Life goes on whether you land a new job right away or not, so don’t neglect the other aspects of your life. Structure your day by setting time aside to work on your applications and job searches. Let your family and friends know that they are important to you but that you must do this now. As well as scheduling job hunting time put important events and family time on the calendar. I’ve even made job searching a family thing in the past. Give each person a specific job to do so they feel like they are needed. While you do need to make a concerted effort with your job search, just try to keep as much of your life normal as possible.

Manage Job Hunting Stress #2: Manage the Workload

Looking for work is a full-time job in itself. It can be easy to overwhelm yourself with the tasks at hand. Make a checklist or spreadsheet of the things you need to do for each job application. For example, you may need to do some research into the company or send an email asking for some information. Then, should you get an interview, you will need to plan the travel route, as well as sorting out your outfit. Mark off the tasks as you accomplish them. Tracking it all gives you peace of mind and clears your head for meeting potential employers.

Manage Job Hunting Stress #3:  Improve your Chances

If you have faced rejection in the past, you could become unmotivated and lose confidence as you move forward. There are loads of reasons why you may not be landing the job you want. The job market is tight and employers are hungry for just the right people to fill their positions. Sometimes, it’s just about timing. My husband actually went back to apply at a company again two years later and got hired. 

There may be some obvious reasons why you aren’t getting work, too. Perhaps you aren’t passionate about the roles you are going for, or your resume may be out of date or poorly written. Therefore, focus on the jobs you want, rather than applying for everything that’s advertised. Learn how to write a perfect resume and focus on brushing up your skills with some training and an extra qualification. Knowing you have what it takes to do the job you apply for, with a well-written resume to boot, will give you extra confidence when it comes to the interview stage.

Manage Job Hunting Stress #4: Don’t Sweat the Interview

We aren’t going to go into great detail here, as we have already given some great advice about interviewing. However, remember the interviewer is only human. While you want to give a good first impression, relax a little and try and enjoy the experience. This may seem impossible if a big job is on the line, but the more pressure you put on yourself, the more stressed you will feel. It isn’t the end of the world if you don’t get the job. No amount of worrying will help your cause.

Manage Job Hunting Stress #5: Solid Self-Care

Look after yourself in the job hunting process. You aren’t going to get anywhere if you make yourself ill. Seek emotional support from friends and family and remember to live healthily with regular exercise and a good diet. Go to the gym and burn off your nervous energy as you stay in shape. Work on your hobbies and distract your worried mind if you’re waiting for an answer.

This may also be a great time for a makeover and some new clothes. Feeling and looking your best is always good for your overall confidence. The road may be long but persevere through it. You are qualified for something out there. Consider it a treasure hunt and go for it!