Whilst there can be some excitement in looking for a new job, it can also be a very daunting process.
For many, interviewing and starting a new job rank in the top 10 most stressful life events. Rejection emails, application black holes and the pressure to find the “perfect” job can have a major impact on your mental wellbeing.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we want to focus on staying positive during your job hunt. Here are some strategies you can use to remain optimistic, manage rejection, build resilience, and celebrate the small victories along the way:
Maintain a Positive Mindset
- Focus on the “Why”: Remind yourself why you’re on this journey. Are you seeking a new challenge? Do you want a better work-life balance? Take a note of these motivations and have them visible to keep you determined in your job search.
- Practice Positivity: Take time to look at the skills and experience you have and remind yourself why you’re a great fit for the roles you’re applying for. This creates a positive outlook and will boost your confidence.
- Visualise Success: There is something to be said for manifesting. So, start picturing yourself landing the job. Visualising success will empower you to have the confidence in your abilities – and get you closer to making your dream job a reality.
Manage Rejection
- Rejection Doesn’t Define You: “No” doesn’t mean you’re not qualified. It just means that you weren’t the right fit for that particular role.
- Learn and Grow: Use rejection as a learning opportunity. Review the job description and your application. Was there anything you could improve for future applications? Always ask for detailed feedback from any unsuccessful interviews – this will stop you making the same mistakes twice.
- Focus on the Positives: You got to the interview stage – celebrate it! Each interview will improve your interview techniques and proves that they saw something in your application that was worth taking you to the next stage.
Celebrate Small Victories
- Acknowledge Each Step: Success isn’t just when you get the job. It’s your CV getting shortlisted, getting an interview, progressing to 2nd interview. Acknowledge each of these accomplishments and see their success.
- Reward Yourself: Set yourself smaller achievable goals – and reward yourself when you achieve them!
- Track Your Progress: It can be hard to see where the success is amongst the CV submissions and emails flying around. Keep track of your applications, interviews and feedback. Seeing the progress you’re making will help motivate you.
Boost Your Interview Confidence
- Preparation is Key: Take the time to fully prepare for each interview. Research the company and the role, including looking on LinkedIn for the latest announcements or posts by company employees. Anticipate the interview questions you’ll be getting and prepare thoughtful answers. Check out the Mexa Solutions interview questions blog for help with this.
- Practice Makes Permanent: Practice answering interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help calm your nerves and give you more confidence in your answers.
- Focus on Your Strengths: Make sure to highlight your accomplishments, skills, and relevant experience at interviews. Don’t get weighed down by what you can’t do – most companies are looking for what skills you can bring and your potential in the role, not the perfect fit.
Bonus Tip: Remember to take care of yourself. Prioritise sleep, healthy eating, and exercise. Take time out for you within your job search and look after your mental wellbeing.
Make sure you stay positive, learn from your experiences, and celebrate your progress. Head over to the Mexa Solutions Reading Room for more tips on CV writing and interview techniques.
If you are finding things difficult, and are struggling with your mental wellbeing, please speak to someone. The NHS is there to provide medical support, and there are many incredible organisations out there providing support:
Samaritans: 116 123 (free from any phone). Hotline available 24/7
SANEline: 0300 304 7000 (experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else). 4:30pm – 10:30pm every day.
Mind: 0300 123 3393 (9am – 6pm Mon-Fri)
National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: 0800 689 5652 (open 24/7)
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): 0800 58 58 58 – 5pm till midnight every day
Shout: 85258 (free text service – text “Shout” for help and support) 24/7
