Being unemployed and actively job-hunting may prove to be very challenging. A lot of unemployed people, once called for an interview may not do well enough due to lack of self-confidence, lower self-esteem, paying too much attention on what the interviewer would say etc. Job hunters with lower self-esteem may easily slip into depression and negative self-talk while they search for a suitable job. This is why, it is utterly important for a job hunter to continue build his or her self-esteem while being unemployed.
Here are some easy ways of developing one’s self esteem:
1- Realize who you are. Start by writing down the skills you are good at and put them in front of your desk. Look at them at least 2-3 times a week.
These skills will include soft and hard skills as well as personal characteristics.
2-Respect yourself and be responsible. Some unemployed people tend to sit on the couch and watch lots of TV while eating chips. This is very unhealthy. It is best to stay involved with the daily life tasks; perhaps help the family, run some errands– anything that instills a sense of self-respect and responsibility.
3- Treat yourself well by engaging in some leisure activity after a thorough job hunt. Visit a friend, work on a hobby, go for a walk or another activity or visit a place of your liking.
4-Think and Stay Positive. Do not indulge in self-criticism or negative self talk.
5- Job hunting can be a very emotional process. While I was unemployed, I felt a range of emotions such as anxiety, helplessness, bitterness, resentment, anger etc. I realized that these emotions were having a negative impact on my ability to hunt for a job. Staying happy all the time did not work either. Repressing my feelings or denying them would have been unhealthy. So, I slowly allowed myself to Feel my Feelings. You can do the same: Release your negative emotions by participating in an activity. Talk to your friends and family. Write about it. If you feel the need to cry then by all means let it out.
6-Smile and be courteous. This definitely helps in improving one’s self esteem by portraying a positive image.
7- No matter what, don’t forget to treat yourself and others with respect.
8-At the end of the day, congratulate yourself that you tried your best. Plan your next day in your head and sleep well without letting any problems crowd your dreams.
Happy Dreams and Happy Job-Hunting!
References:
1-Stay in Control, The Real Key to Job-Hunting Success. By: Carla Krystin Andrade
2-Ways to boost Self Esteem Quickly. By: Mark Tyler. URL: [http://www.self-confidence.co.uk/self/esteem/boost.html]
3-How to Boost Your Self Esteem Quickly. By: Roger Elliot. URL: [http://www.thehappyguy.com/articles/boost-self-esteem.html]
Filed under: Career Coaching | Tagged: be a good job hunter, boost your self confidence, boost your self esteem, job hunting, unemployed
