How to Overcome Job Search Anxiety and Land Your Dream Job

Looking for a new job can be exhausting for many people. Find out what causes job search anxiety and how you can overcome it.

Job hunting is undeniably frustrating. If you are currently unemployed, the stress might be amplified by the anxiousness of not being able to pay your bills. While this is worrying, this is not an unusual occurrence. Judson Brewer, psychiatrist and chief medical officer at wellness company Sharecare, told CNBC that the human brain doesn’t like uncertainty, and searching for jobs is a very uncertain process.

However, it’s not impossible to reduce the fear and anxiety of job hunting. Read further to find out.

Understanding the Cause

It’s essential to understand what causes job search anxiety before you start overcoming it. There are a lot of factors that contribute to anxiety, including financial pressure, lack of control, and social comparison. Generally, it can be separated into two big categories: internal factor and external factor.

Internal Factor

Anxiety often stems from insecurity and self-doubt. It’s when you are thinking that you are not capable enough of the role you’re applying for and that you will ultimately fail. Other aspects that can trigger your insecurity include fear of failure or rejection. When this negativity is left untreated, it can cause uneasiness, stress, and even physical sickness like headache or getting a fever.

External Factor

Aside from insecurity, the pressure that comes from your surroundings can add up to the stress. For instance, family members often push you to quickly get a job or compare you with other people. There is also pressure that comes from the future prospects and social expectations. When this comes persistently, it can induce insecurity, physical and emotional exhaustion, and a lot more.

Overcoming the Anxiety from Job Hunting

Anxiety can be overcome with the right set of strategies. Here are some of them.

Take a Break Once in a While

You might be eager to land a job as soon as possible, resulting in spending too much time searching and applying for jobs. While enthusiasm is a good thing, browsing through job portals every day might cause you more harm than good. For instance, spending too much time looking at a computer screen can cause eye irritation, headache, and neck and shoulder pain. It’s highly advisable to take a break once in a while.

Be Prepared

Having your documents ready can help reduce anxiety. Start by preparing your resume, CV, and template for your cover letter. If you’ve been laid off, ensure you’ve received the necessary unemployment documents from your previous employers. Additionally, gather other relevant documents, such as language proficiency certificates, and training or workshop credentials. You might also want to update your LinkedIn profile to promote yourself as a promising candidate.

Focus on What You Can Do

While it’s easy to worry about the outcome of your job search, it’s better to focus more on things you can control. Make a plan and break it into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, after submitting your applications, you can practice for potential interviews by yourself or with a reliable friend. Keeping your goals achievable will boost your confidence and make you stay motivated.

Ask for Help

Talking to others can be an effective way to alleviate anxiety. While it may not always be obvious, most people you know have experienced a similar situation at some point. Opening up to trusted people can help ease your concerns. If it isn’t enough, consider reaching out to a career coach or another professional who can offer guidance and support during your job search.

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Final Thought

Regardless of the cause, remind yourself that job search is a process and landing on a good job doesn’t just happen overnight. Instead of stressing about finding the ideal employment, take it as an opportunity for change. For example, meet new connections, check into multiple companies, and look beyond your usual niche. Keep your mind fresh and the job will definitely follow through.

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