Being unemployed has never been easy to endure, especially during this global pandemic, it can be twice difficult and critical.
In fact, latest researches have proven the worldwide unemployment rate has seen a huge surge.
Workers are feeling more uncertainty about their future and careers.
Consequently, these feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and depression- people feel when they lose their jobs or can’t find a new one- have deeply affected their mental health.
This fac, lead human resources specialists, psychologist and career coaches to offer tips and hacks on how candidates can boost their self esteem before interviews.
But first let’s try to understand:
§ How unemployment affects people mental health.
Dr Songqi of Gregoria state university found that there are five aspects of employment that unemployed persons always lack.
These aspects include:
Ø Time structure
Ø Social contact
Ø Status
Ø Activity
Ø Collective purpose
Dr Songqi also added that” the deprivation of these employment factors usually causes distress and anxiety.”
Studies have proven that financial strain experienced by unemployed people can lead to more mental health issues.
Anxiety, low self-esteem, depression or material dissatisfaction are probable consequences of unemployment.
In order to help these persons to gain more self-assurance they need to start by roles playing as a first step to gain their confidence back.
Hence, there are different ways to improve job search self-efficacy.
7 tips to improve your self-confidence during job searching
1.Prepare a good elevator pitch
In order to create an elevator pitch, think about your skills and he added value you can bring to the job you are applying for.
Consider which are the points you excel in; you master better other then add them to your speech by using succinct phrase that describe the position that interest you.
Just like getting ready for a public speech, practice 20 to 30 seconds elevator pitch with your friends or family.
By doing so, you will be ready for the due day.
2.Reconnect with other employees
Pandemic and social distancing have made many unemployed persons feel lonelier and out of touch.
So, try to reconnect with your former colleagues by using social media especially LinkedIn.
You can also begin to connect with future employers.
When you work on building a strong network based on values like sharing, helping and genuine interest you will get more attention. This will help you to make connection leading to more interviews and eventually new job.
3.Prepare yourself to receive the call
Since that you can’t determine when exactly you will find a job, you better set a hire date goal that will help you structure you search process and days.
The first priorities on your schedule: should include updating your resume, cover letter or portfolio if you ever have one.
Then you must check your online reputation, by reviewing all your social profile and getting rid of anything that can harm your selection process.
Eventually, you need to make time to build your LinkedIn connections and personal branding by interacting with your network members and even posting some posts related to your job or industry.
4.Conduct a mock interview
By pretending or simulating a real-life job interview, candidates can practice their elevator pitch, prepare their answers and get ready for their virtual or one on one job interview.
This will allow them to get more advices, tips and perspectives from the person playing the role of the interviewer.
Practicing can also help the candidate to get a better control of the situation and increase his self-confidence and esteem.
5.Consider changing careers
After the pandemic many people started considering a career shift or upgrade.
However before doing so, everyone must be mindful about making a drastic switch.
Changing your career path isn’t an easy decision to take; you must consider many factors before taking the jump.
This step can get more difficult during times of uncertainty when people are out of work and companies not hiring.
So, demonstrating that you are capable, flexible and ready to learn will grant you more chances by making you more eligible for the job of your dreams.
You can also double your chances to get hired by taking courses in your desired filed, seeking for mentorship or starting a freelance experience.
6.Apprenez quelque chose de nouveau
Recruiting or hiring manager will eventually ask you how you’ve spent your time, so it would better if you get prepared by picking up or learning a new skill.
Even if you are unemployed, you should continue to learn.
By doing so, and during the job interview your conversation will always remain relevant and will present you as a knowledgeable person who is capable and eager to learn.
Hence start taking some MOOC’s or online courses to keep your skills sharp, elevate your selling pitch and even get extra certifications for your CV.
7.Recognize your accomplishment
Recognition and self-appreciation are crucial to boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Usually, when candidates get rejected or ignored by recruiters, they start feeling anxiety and sadness.
Psychologists insisted that candidates must know their real worth and value no matter what is the circumstance they are living in.
Candidates must always remember their achievement, accomplishment and unique selling point that makes them valuable for any potential employer.
Jobseeker often think that a good resume is the key to get the job, but the real success ingredient is strong self-confidence and high level of self -esteem that can push them to achieve anything in life.