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Tips for Managing Job Search Stress
You researched resume writing and interview skills, visited your career center, polished your resume and cover letter, and embarked on the job search. This process can be overwhelming, especially when faced with silence from potential employers, financial worries, and the balancing act of job searching alongside schoolwork and other responsibilities. Here are some strategies to help cope with the stress:
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Take breaks: Don’t exhaust yourself by obsessively searching for jobs and crafting applications. Take regular breaks to recharge your mind with activities like reading, exercising, or socializing. These breaks can help maintain focus and reduce anxiety.
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Celebrate milestones: Recognize every step forward in your job search journey, whether it’s securing an interview, conducting a successful informational interview, or finding a promising job posting. Treat yourself to small rewards to stay motivated and positive, like eating a favorite meal, watching a favorite movie, or spending time with friends.
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Maintain positive self-talk: Job searching often involves setbacks and rejections, but it’s essential to stay optimistic. Remind yourself of your achievements, visualize your future success, and keep a constructive inner dialogue to boost confidence.
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Seek support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, classmates, and mentors who can offer encouragement and advice during challenging times. Sharing experiences and receiving empathy can ease the burden of job search stress.
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Embrace the learning experience: View job searching as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. During this journey, you will improve your writing, networking, and negotiation skills, expand your network, and gain insights into your field. Every rejection and setback is a chance to learn and improve for future endeavors.
For more in depth information and coping strategies, view the video "Dealing with Job Search Stress" below.
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