Job Search: tips to overcome anxiety, nerves and self-doubt
  • Publish Date: Posted 7 months ago
  • Author:by Dena Hyett

Job Search: 9 Steps to overcoming Anxiety, Nerves and Self-doubt

​Job hunting is rollercoaster of emotions - excitement, hope, and anticipation are often accompanied by anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. As recruiters, we understand these feelings and can reassure you that they are totally natural. Changing companies, looking for a new career direction, looking to step up the career ladder can all trigger these feelings and emotions, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can approach your job search with a renewed confidence.In this blog, we wanted to explore effective ways to navigate the job search process while combating anxiety, managing nerves, and silencing self-doubt.1. Acknowledge and Normalise Your FeelingsThe first step is to acknowledge that these feelings are a normal part of the job search process, in fact they are a normal response to uncertainty and change and you are not alone in feeling this way. By understanding your own triggers, such as fear of rejection, financial concerns, or the pressure to find the perfect job, you are better placed to overcome these feelings.2. Set Realistic Expectations:Unrealistic expectations can exacerbate anxiety and self-doubt so it's crucial to set realistic, achievable goals during your job search. It’s important to understand that landing the perfect job can take time and effort. So don’t stress yourself out sending hundreds of CVs and job applications on a whim. Make sure you are setting yourself achievable targets and breaking the job search down into small, manageable tasks.3. Focus on Your Strengths and Achievements:Self-doubt stems from underestimating our own abilities and accomplishments. Take time to reflect on your strengths, skills, and past achievements. Write them down and remind yourself of your capabilities whenever self-doubt creeps in. Make sure relevant skills and achievements are included in your CV and covering letter (8 tips to make your CV stand out from the crowd), they will act as an aide-memoire when preparing for an interview. Maintain a positive mindset and embrace the value you can bring to potential employers. Cultivating self-confidence will make you stand out during interviews and throughout the job search process.4. Develop a Support System: Building a support system is vital in combating anxiety and self-doubt. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage you throughout the job search. Seek guidance from mentors, join professional networking groups, and share your experiences with friends and family. Having people who understand and support your journey will provide invaluable emotional support and boost your confidence.5. Leverage Your Network:Networking is a powerful tool for finding job opportunities and reducing anxiety. Reach out to your professional connections (Linked In is a good place to start), friends, and family members who might have insights or potential leads. Attend industry events, job fairs, or join online communities to expand your network. Remember, building relationships is a gradual process, and each connection brings you one step closer to your ideal job.6. Prepare and Practice: Preparation is key to overcoming nerves and anxiety during job interviews and other selection processes, so it won’t harm in starting your preparation early. There are many standard interview questions, so practice your responses in advance. There are plenty of online resources around interview techniques and sample questions, so get preparing - the more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel when the big day arrives. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help calm nerves and enhance focus.7. Embrace Learning Opportunities:Upskilling and learning new things can boost your confidence and expand your job opportunities. Identify areas where you can improve or gain additional knowledge relevant to your desired job. Engage in online courses, attend webinars or workshops, and stay updated with industry trends. This commitment to learning will not only enhance your CV but also provide you with a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance.8. Practice Self-Care:Amidst the stresses of job searching, it's crucial to prioritise self-care. Take breaks, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and eat well. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you unwind. Remember to celebrate small victories and reward yourself for the progress you make along the way. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will equip you to face challenges with a clearer and more positive mindset.9. Seek Support:Building a support system is vital in combating feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage you throughout the job search. Joining job search support groups or online forums can also connect you with individuals going through similar experiences and seek support from those closest to you. Having people who understand and support your journey will provide invaluable emotional support and boost your confidence.​It is crucial to recognise the profound impact that anxiety, nerves, and self-doubt can have on individuals in their pursuit of a new job. By addressing these challenges head-on and implementing coping mechanisms and strategies, we not only enhance our chances of success but also prioritise our mental health and well-being.Remember – it’s normal to experience these feelings and emotions. You can take steps to overcome them with patience, resilience, and self-compassion. Important - If your feelings and emotions do become overwhelming and difficult to manage on your own, reach out to your support network or to professionals who can help you get the support you need. Mind UKMental Health Foundation​If we can help with your job search, do get in touch: 01892 553355 or Email the Gerrard White Team or visit our jobs page

Share this Article
Back to Blogs

​Job hunting is rollercoaster of emotions - excitement, hope, and anticipation are often accompanied by anxiety, fear, and self-doubt.

As recruiters, we understand these feelings and can reassure you that they are totally natural. Changing companies, looking for a new career direction, looking to step up the career ladder can all trigger these feelings and emotions, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can approach your job search with a renewed confidence.

In this blog, we wanted to explore effective ways to navigate the job search process while combating anxiety, managing nerves, and silencing self-doubt.

1. Acknowledge and Normalise Your Feelings

The first step is to acknowledge that these feelings are a normal part of the job search process, in fact they are a normal response to uncertainty and change and you are not alone in feeling this way. By understanding your own triggers, such as fear of rejection, financial concerns, or the pressure to find the perfect job, you are better placed to overcome these feelings.

2. Set Realistic Expectations:

Unrealistic expectations can exacerbate anxiety and self-doubt so it's crucial to set realistic, achievable goals during your job search. It’s important to understand that landing the perfect job can take time and effort. So don’t stress yourself out sending hundreds of CVs and job applications on a whim. Make sure you are setting yourself achievable targets and breaking the job search down into small, manageable tasks.

3. Focus on Your Strengths and Achievements:

Self-doubt stems from underestimating our own abilities and accomplishments. Take time to reflect on your strengths, skills, and past achievements. Write them down and remind yourself of your capabilities whenever self-doubt creeps in. Make sure relevant skills and achievements are included in your CV and covering letter (8 tips to make your CV stand out from the crowd), they will act as an aide-memoire when preparing for an interview. Maintain a positive mindset and embrace the value you can bring to potential employers. Cultivating self-confidence will make you stand out during interviews and throughout the job search process.

4. Develop a Support System:

Building a support system is vital in combating anxiety and self-doubt. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage you throughout the job search. Seek guidance from mentors, join professional networking groups, and share your experiences with friends and family. Having people who understand and support your journey will provide invaluable emotional support and boost your confidence.

5. Leverage Your Network:

Networking is a powerful tool for finding job opportunities and reducing anxiety. Reach out to your professional connections (Linked In is a good place to start), friends, and family members who might have insights or potential leads. Attend industry events, job fairs, or join online communities to expand your network. Remember, building relationships is a gradual process, and each connection brings you one step closer to your ideal job.

6. Prepare and Practice:

Preparation is key to overcoming nerves and anxiety during job interviews and other selection processes, so it won’t harm in starting your preparation early. There are many standard interview questions, so practice your responses in advance. There are plenty of online resources around interview techniques and sample questions, so get preparing - the more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel when the big day arrives. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help calm nerves and enhance focus.

7. Embrace Learning Opportunities:

Upskilling and learning new things can boost your confidence and expand your job opportunities. Identify areas where you can improve or gain additional knowledge relevant to your desired job. Engage in online courses, attend webinars or workshops, and stay updated with industry trends. This commitment to learning will not only enhance your CV but also provide you with a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance.

8. Practice Self-Care:

Amidst the stresses of job searching, it's crucial to prioritise self-care. Take breaks, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and eat well. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you unwind. Remember to celebrate small victories and reward yourself for the progress you make along the way. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will equip you to face challenges with a clearer and more positive mindset.

9. Seek Support:

Building a support system is vital in combating feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and encourage you throughout the job search. Joining job search support groups or online forums can also connect you with individuals going through similar experiences and seek support from those closest to you. Having people who understand and support your journey will provide invaluable emotional support and boost your confidence.

It is crucial to recognise the profound impact that anxiety, nerves, and self-doubt can have on individuals in their pursuit of a new job. By addressing these challenges head-on and implementing coping mechanisms and strategies, we not only enhance our chances of success but also prioritise our mental health and well-being.

Remember – it’s normal to experience these feelings and emotions. You can take steps to overcome them with patience, resilience, and self-compassion.

Important - If your feelings and emotions do become overwhelming and difficult to manage on your own, reach out to your support network or to professionals who can help you get the support you need.

Mind UK

Mental Health Foundation

​If we can help with your job search, do get in touch: 01892 553355 or Email the Gerrard White Team or visit our jobs page

Latest Blogs

View All Blogs
Houses Of Parliamentr
Autumn Statement 2023: The Off-Payroll Offset

​In a relatively uneventful mini-budget for contractors, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has officially announced the implementation of the IR35 offset, effective from 6th April 2024. While this move was ...

Contracting
Why consider contractors over permanent hires within digital transformation and tech projects?

​With the transformation and wider technology market being incredibly fast paced, not to mention competitive, the wait for the right talent to stay ahead of timescales for key projects can be le...

AI In Claims Insurance
​What value can AI add to insurance claims?

The insurance industry has come a long way from traditional paper-based processes and manual claim assessments. With the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI), insurers are now able to stre...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Insurance
Artificial Intelligence in the Insurance Industry: A 2023 Overview

​Over the last decade we have witnessed a seismic shift in the way the age-old Insurance sector operates. The game-changer? Artificial Intelligence (AI). In the early 2010s, the insurance industry...

Legal Recruitment Sepcialists
Retained Search vs Contingent Recruitment

​With lots of businesses looking at the recruitment strategy for the rest of 2023 and into 2024, our Legal Recruitment expert at Gerrard White, Cam d’Espagnac takes a look at the difference betwee...

Public Sector Technology
Attracting and Retaining Technology Talent in the Public Sector

​The competition for technology talent in the public sector can be fierce as government organisations often face challenges in attracting and retaining skilled professionals for various reasons su...

Automation in Claims
Automation in Insurance: Revolutionising Claims Processing

​Automation is everywhere, with companies looking to simplify processes, make automated decisions and improve customer journeys. Within insurance, there are opportunities for automation, but clai...

Future of Insurance technology
The Future of Insurance Technology: What could it look like in 2030?

​Naturally without a crystal ball nobody can predict the future, and with technology being arguably the most aggressively evolving thing on the planet it’s even harder to surmise where things mig...

Financial Lines Insurance
Financial Lines Brokers and Recruitment Consultants - how shared traits help unlock success

​Choosing a reputable financial lines broker shares intriguing parallels with selecting a reliable recruitment consultant. Both decisions hold considerable weight, influencing distinct aspects of...

ISO 9001:2015 certification
Announcing our ISO 9001:2015 Certification

​Gerrard White Consulting (part of the GWV Talent Solutions Ltd group) is delighted to announce that it has been awarded ISO 9001:2015 certification, an internationally recognised standard that ens...

Umbrellas 3
Tax Non-Compliance in the Umbrella Sector

​Umbrella companies provide an invaluable role in the temporary/contract supply chain, providing their workers with employment rights and deducting the appropriate income tax and national insurance...

Broking
Recruitment Trends for Financial Lines Insurance Brokers in London

​In the competitive landscape of Financial Lines Insurance in London, recruitment plays a crucial role in ensuring that brokers have the necessary talent to navigate complex risks and provide comp...

Rpa
How RPA provides significant benefits to a modern world

​RPA (robotics process automation) is dominating the modern world alongside AI (Artificial Intelligence). AI (Artificial Intelligence) is better known with the likes of Chat GPT and other AI tool...