How to Navigate a Career Change With Less Stress
Career Change and tips for a good interview with no Stress
Making a career change is exciting – you’re setting out on a new course in life that’s full of possibilities. But even when it’s a positive change, the process of switching careers and finding your fit can also be stressful. Using these strategies for self-care will help you stay focused on your goal and minimize stress while going through this transition.
Managing the Job Search
When you’re entering a new field, you have to put yourself out there and make the connections that will lead to doors opening. One of the first things you should do is join relevant professional groups and be active in them. Other ways you can gain experience and make connections are to volunteer in your field or take continuing education classes. Doing this helps you move forward in the search process to ultimately land the job you’re looking for.
Be sure to take advantage of multiple avenues for finding the right job. Use social networking that’s geared toward the professional world, such as LinkedIn, but don’t discount old fashioned in-person networking either. Many people who are going through a career transition also find a career coach to be helpful. These professionals can help guide you through the job search process, and the support they give will help you feel confident that you’re moving in the right direction.
Searching for a job is no easy task, so be sure to take time for yourself too. Talkspace recommends taking “brain breaks,” which can be any short activity that gives your mind a rest. This could be a quick workout or yoga practice, a nap or any hobby you enjoy.
Nailing the Interview
When you start going for interviews, your success (and mental well-being) depends on keeping a positive mindset and calming your nerves. The best way to reduce the stress of the job interview process is to research and prepare for interviews ahead of time. Study up on the kind of questions you can expect and plan out how you would answer. Being prepared will give you confidence and help keep interview jitters away.
While preparation is key to success, it’s also important to be aware of your mindset. Being nervous about interviews is normal, but you don’t want to let that fear take over. Forbes explains how your mindset is absolutely key to managing the stress of job interviews. They recommend talking to yourself with an attitude of courage and positivity to develop the right mindset.
Career change is such a big deal that there are numerous books written on the subject. Head to the library or bookstore and pick up a few books to give you an edge on staying focused and in the right mindset.
Getting Off to the Right Start
When all your hard work pays off and you get an offer, be prepared for the transition so that the challenges don’t put a damper on the joy. In your first few weeks, Indeed recommends introducing yourself repeatedly, and being intentional about getting to know coworkers. Making connections will help you feel at home in the new environment more quickly, and coworkers can help walk you through any job-related concerns.
It’s normal to feel uncomfortable any time you do something new, and that includes jumping into a new career. Just like you do with the job search and interviews, remember that your mindset is key here. That feeling of discomfort means you’re learning. Even if it feels awkward at first, you’re going through a period of growth that will pay off in the long run.
As you continue making this adjustment, don’t forget to make time for self-care basics. A new job can be draining, even when it’s also fulfilling. Strive for overall wellness, which means finding time for your physical, emotional and spiritual needs in addition to the time you spend at work.
Life often feels out of balance when we go through a major transition. Even good changes can cause stress. Focusing on how you can care for yourself throughout the process will get you through this change stronger and ready for success.
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