Address the Emotional Side of Job Search

Author: Sam Cohen

         Leader of on-time process and technology solutions, engaging a passion for working with people, vision for the future, and accepting only success.

Alex Freund (The Landing Expert) wrote an article (How to Overcome Fear While In-transition) which notes the oft-minimized emotional side of being in transition.  It is important is to recognize the need to address job search holistically.  The focus is generally:
(1) knowing the current tools for job search
(2) applying the current job search processes
(3) preparing and practicing job search interactions

Just as important is:
(4) having a confidential emotional support network - one that listens as you talk about the emotions of search
(5) understanding/recognizing what you are experiencing
(6) having positive diversions

The last 3 points must not be minimized. A confidential emotional support network should be available. Remember that even those who are positive have negative moments.

Support is one aspect of realistically approaching what you feel during a job search.  Because, it is personal.  One needs to understand the emotional side in order to be most effective in search.

Positive diversions are not a waste of cycles.  Volunteering, for example, can not only lead to a job, but also allows the unemployed to have social interaction.  As Alex notes, hearing ,“Thanks for a job well done” is an emotional uplift —a sentiment that for a while has likely been absent from life.

Another way to get positive diversions is to push endorphins.  This is critical in order to maintain a positive attitude during transition.  There are a limited number of ways to do so.  The one most under an individual's control is exercise.  I walk.

I also combine walking with positive projection and using my speaking voice (not volume per se, but clarity). I smile throughout the exercise session; and say hello to everyone I see, increasing my comfort and ability to look strangers in the eye and speak clearly to them. Doing so not only improves one's attitude, but let's them practice interacting.

If you are not generally getting a response, keep working at it.  Some of us are uncomfortable doing speaking up and/or to others.


Net, my suggestions for a successful search require addressing all six (6) points in Alex's article, and not minimizing the importance of the latter 3.

Happy searching!