Sunday, October 21, 2012

Desperation


Desperation

Note-The following article touches on issues related to mental health. The tips and advice presented are just that, not an attempt to provide medical treatment or intervention. If you need such help, talk to your doctor, call emergency services, go to an emergency room, or call the (USA) National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

With changes in the labor market, there are an unprecedented number of people who are experiencing feelings of desperation. This emotional state negatively affects decision-making ability, and is related to feelings of panic, hopelessness, and despair.

In a job search, desperation affects critical decisions regarding where to apply, as well as the 'sales presentation' of the candidate. All too often, people begin to apply to inappropriate jobs, any job regardless of the potential fit. Further, even when the job is a good fit, desperate people present in ways including down, low energy and/or depressed. Alternatively, the desperate candidate is often overeager, anxious and promote themselves excessively. Often, excessive follow through is a problem in these situations.

To avoid these problems, I often recommend that clients realize something early on-This is a marathon, not a 100 meter sprint. Also, stay active, both physically and mentally. This is important from the first day of a job search.

One related activity is to keep your work skills current. A few times a week, block out an appropriate amount of time to maintain what you have worked so hard to gain. As a side note, this is also good advice to employed folks too.

To address some of the psychological stressors, give something to someone else, and you may gain even more in return. I am referring to volunteering. It can be a real boost to your self image to read to school children, provide companionship at a Senior Center, or even pick up trash at the park. This is also a good way to network, or simply make connections that will help your job search. You never know, the Teacher at the school may know someone who is hiring, or you may bump into someone at the park who needs an employee.

Next give yourself a break-both kinds. The first kind of break is to not exhaust yourself with a job search. Work at the search everyday, but again, this is a marathon. Pace yourself.

The second kind of break is to be kind, forgiving and accepting toward yourself. Regardless of the cause of the job loss, people are all too often willing to view themselves as at fault or defective. This is obviously not healthy, and we can often be our own worst critic. Give yourself a break.

Set reasonable and attainable goals to maintain a job search. The goals should be regarding your behavior (sending resumes, applying, networking) because this is in your control. The goal should not be to get a job, it should be to engage in a quality job search.

"Never, never, never give up." Winston Churchill

Good luck, and best wishes,

Chris