Looking for employment can be a scary proposition. When fear and anxiety creep into your consciousness during a job search, you might begin to doubt your abilities, and your confidence could take a hit. Discover how to allay four common fears related to finding a job.
Fear 1: Your Resume Isn't Good Enough
A resume serves as the backbone of your job search. This document should reflect your top-level skills, relevant experience and the details a hiring manager needs to make a decision about whether or not to call you for an interview.
If your resume is lacking, boost the interest of those in your industry by networking appropriately. Reach out to your contacts on LinkedIn, attend industry-specific networking events and grow your network through targeted outreach. You never know when the people you connect with might be able to put in a good word for you or help you land a position.
Fear 2: Changing Careers in Mid-Stream
After spending time in your chosen career, you might decide it's not for you. If you're in this situation, you might not want to act hastily and leave behind a perfectly viable profession that pays decent money.
Take stock of what you really want out of your career and find a way to fulfill your personal mission. You might find that you want to move to the next level in your current industry or switch roles or departments in your present company. If you still feel like switching careers entirely, take the time to spruce up your transferable soft skills, and examine the schooling and certifications you may need for a new career.
Fear 3: Inability to Market Your Skills
If you aren't sure how to market yourself during a job search, you're not alone, as this is a common issue. The key to dealing with this is to determine the qualities and skills you have that set you apart from other candidates, and then focus on those.
Ask your former colleagues, friends and family about your top-level traits. Talk to current co-workers and find out what they see in you that makes you a good employee. Include portions of the responses you receive in your resume, cover letter and answers to interview questions.
Fear 4: Lack of Salary
You don't want to put in a lot of hard work into a job search only to settle for a job that pays the same as or less than your current or previous position. Research Glassdoor or PayScale to determine the average salaries for specific positions within your industry. Then, consider the cost of living in your area. Use this information to come up with a fair pay range. Aim for an offer that is 10 to 20 percent above your current salary during negotiations after you receive an offer.
You may experience some or all of these four common fears during a job search. Luckily, there are remedies for dealing with these fears. If you're willing to put in some work, you'll likely find a fulfilling position that makes you happy. Have you dealt with any of these fears during a job search?
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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