Looking for a new job can seem like a haunting idea that often eats away at your brain. However, it doesn’t have to be! In the spirit of Halloween, for this blog, we’re diving into the scary side of job hunting. We're here to help you overcome your job-seeking demons and offer some terrifyingly terrific tips on making the job hunt a little less scary.
Job Application Dread
When all you want to do is copy and paste your previous job application, it might be hard to feel enthused about filling out yet another one and making it sound exciting. Often, employers can also ask for a cover letter or for you to fill out a page full of questions. Sounds scary, right?
Well, don’t give up yet; this is your chance to show how interested you are in the job and make your application stand out, even though it may take a long time. Fortunately, if you're looking for a job that you're passionate about and your CV is up to date, this shouldn't be too difficult. Just be sure to investigate the company and its core values so that you can tailor your application towards them.
The Impending Interview Doom
Let us set the scene - You’re tossing and turning in your bed, the interview is looming, and the image of you stumbling over your words in front of the interviewer is creeping into your dreams. It’s completely normal to experience anxiety before an interview, it’s what makes us human. However, do not fear, as long as you’ve prepared, there’s no need to worry.
When the interviewer asks a question that surprises you or you find you're not well prepared for it, it may be a terrifying experience. Making yourself as prepared as you can is the best thing you can do to fight this. Do some research about the business and compose your responses accordingly. Try to unwind the night before by taking a bath, laying out your interview attire, and relaxing.
Unveiling the Skeletons in Your Closet
How do you account for the two months of unemployment on your CV? Did you ever work for a company and leave on bad terms? Only survived a short stint in a role you detested? Be ready for the possibility that a prospective employer may probe into your past and uncover dark secrets. Don't worry too much about this, as long as your resume justifies everything, you'll be on the safe side. Therefore, be ready to remove your mask and respond openly and professionally, especially when discussing topics you would want to avoid.
A Modern-Day Ghost Story 👻
Getting ghosted isn’t limited to our personal lives and can actually occur during the job hunting process. It can be a pretty nerve-rattling experience and often leaves you left in the dark. It’s never an ideal situation, but occasionally these things happen. Employers receive an abundance of applications for their open positions and sometimes are unable to reply to every single applicant. However, do not fear, we promise the right job for you is out there somewhere. Don’t let this dampen your spirits. Perhaps this is a perfect time for you to review your CV and amend it to make it even better and don’t be afraid to send a follow-up email to thank them and express your interest in the role.
Chilling in Anticipation
Ever wanted to experience the adrenaline of being in a horror movie? Let us introduce you to... “the waiting period." Your heart is pounding, your hands are sweaty, and your ears are ringing. At this point, you might as well be living a nightmare. Though in actuality all you're doing is waiting to find out if you'll get the offer of your dream job.
Although it may seem like weeks will pass before you hear back, and in some extremely rare cases, it may, you will often hear back rather fast.
And simply be pleased that you got this far in the process, even if it's not the news you were hoping for. It’s good practice and will only benefit you in your next interview, especially if you also ask for feedback.
The Unsettling First Day
Congrats, you’ve secured your new job! You think the tricky part is over, but before you know it, your first day comes around the corner, and it turns out this can be just as anxiety-inducing as the job hunt itself. Starting any new job can be daunting and fill you with dread, however, most likely you’ll have already been introduced to some of the team during the interview stage, and if you have any questions beforehand, we’re certain your employer will be more than happy to help and ensure you feel welcome on your first week.
Do you feel brave enough to overcome your job hunt horrors?