Q. It seems that everyone in my graduating class has a job lined up except me. I am ready to give up. Even though I’m a recent graduate, I have worked before and I know what to do to get a job; but clearly I am doing something wrong. How can I get my drive and optimism back and stop feeling like a failure?
A. As a recent graduate with work experience, you may know what employers are looking for. But do you know what you are looking for? To get from graduation day to a full-time job, you need to visualize and commit to the path without feeling like a failure or experiencing self-doubt and stress.
Visualizing is an excellent way to change your perspective, prepare yourself for a challenge, and reduce your stress. Whether you are searching for a job or about to leave for your first day at work, anxiety is normal and any hiccup may seem overwhelming.
Once you have a better handle on your feelings of failure and your stress, you are able to take important next steps that may be just what you need to finally land that job. For example, you might speak to your college career office, invite someone for lunch or coffee who works in that field to find out how they got their first job, hire a resume writer, work with a career coach, or revisit your wish list for jobs to make sure you are being realistic. First, however, you have to believe in yourself.
Here’s how visualization works:
- Find a quiet place.
- Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply. You might put one hand on your heart and one on your belly to help you concentrate on your breath.
- Begin thinking of your ideal job. Visualize the location and your desk.
- Put yourself in that spot and allow yourself to feel successful.
- Repeat this exercise. Gradually, your confidence and motivation will return.
Now that you know where you want to be—and can see yourself in that role—back up to the start of the journey. Where do you usually encounter a problem? Do you struggle to research companies, write your resume or LinkedIn profile, post your resume, accept an interview, prepare for an interview, speak to an interviewer either in-person or online, or follow up with a thank you?
Visualize yourself in the problem situation and then visualize yourself mastering the solution. If feelings of anxiety and fears of failure enter in, cast them to one side and return to the visualization.
Decide if you need outside help. Many job seekers turn to experts in research, writing, interview preparation, and negotiating skills. One of the resources you can always depend on is Robin’s Resumes®. Contact us for a free consultation to determine your needs.