A good first step is to understand your personal stress triggers. Many job seekers feel pressure due to a self imposed sense of urgency. They create unrealistic schedules for tasks and set impractical time frames to meet expectations resulting in constant worry and nervous tension. While others experience apprehension over the entire employment process. Is my resume good enough? Did I do OK in the interview?

Applicant anxiety and second guessing can often interfere with the very strongest of candidates leaving them behind in the hiring process. When an applicant appears stressed their nervous presence overpowers the interview making it difficult for the hiring manager to concentrate on anything other then their tense demeanor. In practical terms these behaviors are seen as negativism, lack of confidence, jitters, disinterest, aloofness and poor communication skills.

Consider implementing some stress reducing strategies into your job search and increase your chances of landing your dream job:

Perspective: When we are under stress we see in tunnel vision. Try to see the big picture. Will this be important in 5 years, or even in 6 months?

Be Positive: Try seeing all life’s circumstances in a positive light. If a door closes, a window will open.

Exercise Regularly: It will relieve tension. Try the buddy system and ask a friend along. The camaraderie and accountability are both a big win.

Sleep: Make sure you are getting enough rest and sleep.

Fun: Laughter is a stress buster! Take time out and have some fun. Talk to a funny friend, watch a sit-com, go to a comedy club, play a board game.

Grounded: Take time out to pray, meditate, relax or simply breathe. Expand this idea into 5-Minute Vacations. Periodically step away and get refreshed.

Share: Talk over difficult feelings and issues with a trusted friend, colleague or advisor. Write your thoughts down in journal and let them go.

Lessons Learned: Try to learn something new every day and view this stressful time of job seeking as opportunity to get to know yourself much better.

Life’s Little Rewards: On stressful days reward yourself with something small that you enjoy.

To learn more about job seeker strategies please contact The Maslin Group at http://www.hr.maslingroup.com/html/resume_home.html or call 888.833.8608 ext. 801. Happy Hunting!