How to Kick Off a Job Search When You Lack Confidence

November 4, 2019

Written By: Jennifer Parris, Flex Jobs Career Writer

It’s easy to get intimidated when you’re reading a job description, especially for a position that you really want. You might think, “I don’t have what it takes to get that gig,” or “A company like that wouldn’t hire someone like me.” But it’s time to silence the negative chatter rattling around in your head and start cultivating your job search confidence. Here’s how.

Avoid the negativity.

Negative Nancy’s are everywhere, and they’re most likely to pop up when you’re trying to do something positive with your life. Steer clear of the stress and drama that pessimistic people can try to project into your life by avoiding them altogether. And the same goes for your inner critic, too, which can sometimes be even more deafening than anything (or anyone) else.

Set yourself up for success.

Get ahead of the ball by finding ways to make sure that you have a successful job search from the start. If you’re looking for a remote job, try to set up your home office space now. Get the office equipment you’ll need in order to work from home successfully, and learn the programs that your future position will require. And if you’re planning on becoming a digital nomad, start looking at areas on the globe where you’d like to work in order to make that dream a reality.

Invest in your health.

It’s hard to feel good about yourself when you’re not healthy. Thing is, in order for healthy habits to stick, you have to incorporate them into your life gradually. After all, you can’t expect to lose 30 pounds, quit smoking, and start eating—and loving—kale overnight. So include some healthier habits in your day-to-day living. You might start off your mornings by taking a walk around your block, and eventually build it up to a jog. You can substitute sugary drinks for some good ol’ H2O. When you start to invest in yourself physically, your confidence will naturally improve and extend over into your job search, too.

Reach out to friends and family.

To stay the course as you commence your job search, you’ll need the love and support of people who mean the most to you. Talk to friends and family who can offer you love and guidance—and a pep talk that can give you the confidence that you need. Remember, these are the people who know you the best, and they can be your biggest job search cheerleaders. Plus, you never know if they might have connections to the job you’re looking to apply to.

Assess your application.

It’s easy to get intimidated when you’re reading a job description, especially for a job that you really want. Before you get too down in the dumps, though, read over your resume and cover letter. Look at your previous work experience and the skills you possess, especially those soft skills that remote employers want in their workers. See how far you’ve already come in your career—not how far you need to go. Chances are, you just needed a reminder that, yes, you do have what it takes to go after that job you want.

For more tips on how to find your next job, visit our talent blog or contact us today!

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