Job searching can be a mentally draining task that can feel like a never-ending cycle of trying and being rejected. With cybersecurity job growth projected to increase by 33 percent during the next decade, the job hunt can be daunting and not to mention at times depressing.
So how can you stay positive while looking for your next career move? Check out these tips for how to check-in with your mental health while on your job-hunting journey.
While you create the life you've dreamed of, you need to also have realistic SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based) goals of how you can achieve that. What are the steps you need to take to apply for a position? Do you need to rebuild your resume? When would you like to be in a new job by? Ask yourself the questions that will help you build a realistic pathway to success. Keep in mind while building these goals to also manage your expectations for what is achievable now and what could be achievable in the future.
After you create your SMART goals, set out to get organized in your approach. How many jobs do you want to be applying for in a day? Do you want to take a specific day a week to network and reach out to your connections? What days do you want to give yourself rest from the job hunt? Rather than getting lost in the job-seeking wave, learn how to ride the wave and manage it while also understanding that some days may be less structured than others.
If there is a lack of a specific skill in your resume, take the time to hone-in and refine that skill while you continue your job search. Even if you're not an expert, potential employers will be happy to know you're actively learning something new. Not to mention it can be a nice distraction while you wait to hear back from organizations on next steps.
There is no shame in reaching out and asking for help. Your network is comprise of a whole host of different folks with varied backgrounds that can help you during this time. Don't try to tackle this on your own. After you've created your SMART goals and are organized, don't be afraid to reach out, whether that be to your family, your friends, a mentor, or a mental health professional; they can help you and share different perspectives on your journey.
The job-hunting task is no easy feat and often leads to a lot of humility and humbling while you look for a new career opportunity. It is important to keep in mind, though, that you are not your job, but your job is an aspect of your life. No matter what you may be feeling, it is valid and okay to sit with those emotions during this time. Give yourself grace and know there is only one you, so feel confident in those emotions and abilities that make you unique, and that will shine through in future opportunities.
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