#AskJUGS: 3 Signs You're Overwhelmed By Your Job Search
One of the main reasons that people don’t get more traction in their job search is that they fail to take the necessary actions to move the process forward.
While I sometimes see job seekers applying to lots of jobs and not getting any offers, what I am much more likely to see are people who are struggling to get started, particularly if they are considering a pivot or transition of some kind, or if they’re just feeling pressed for time to get focused.
We all know it requires some work and strategy to land a new job, but job search overwhelm is real - and it can’t stop you right in your tracks. Here are three signs you’re overwhelmed by your job search - and what you can do about it:
You’re not applying for any jobs
Resumes and cover letters are foundational to the job search process. Even if you’re banking on your network to help you out, you’ll still have to be actively applying for jobs online.
If you’re not applying to anything - but you consider yourself a job seeker - definitely check out the free version of Uncomplicate Your Job Search or join us at the next live round for easy and tangible ways to gain traction in your job search.
You know what you “should” be doing...but you’re not doing it
You probably have very good intentions when it comes to making progress in your job search but I know how easy it is to prioritize pretty much everything else going on in your life.
Even though applying for jobs is key to moving the process forward, perhaps you’ll feel a little more eager to attend a professional development seminar or a career panel for women (I *highly* recommend our monthly Ladies Lounge events with General Assembly!). Events like this are fairly passive for job seekers (just register and show up!) but can help inspire and motivate you to take the next steps in your own career.
You’re afraid your next job could be worse
If you want a new job, you have to trust yourself to navigate a successful job search process and the potential challenges that may require. And the best way to start building that confidence is to actively engage yourself in the process and remain committed to finding something that is a great fit for you.
Do the self-reflection work to identify your strengths and values and ask the tough questions at interviews.
While the job search process isn’t linear, I’ve tried to create a more linear process for job seekers to follow in my workshop, Uncomplicate Your Job Search. If you’re struggling to get started, sign up for the free version of this workshop and learn the step by step process that I teach my clients to help them land interviews, job offers and bigger salaries.
Jenn Walker Wall writes a monthly career advice column called #AskJUGs for JustUsGalsBos.com and is the founder of Work Wonders Coaching + Consulting. You can follow her on Twitter: @JennWalkerWall. Ask your career questions here.