In case you weren’t aware, I’m in the middle of searching for a new job. A few weeks ago, I offered some tips for my fellow searchers, lessons that I’d learned so far. I called the post Part 1, because I figured I would have more to share, and I was right. Here are three more:
1. You have to believe that if something is meant to be, it will work out in the end. Getting rejected by a company, or not being asked back for a second interview sucks. Believe me, I know. But, after you allow yourself an hour or so to be sad/mad, really think about the job and the company, and if it was truly a good fit for you. Chances are, they had a good reason for not choosing you, and either way, it’s their loss. You can’t harp on the “woulda, coulda, shouldas,” or beat yourself up for what you could have done better. The past is over and done with, so look to the future and keep your head up.
2. Don’t psych yourself out for interviews. I know, this is easier said than done, but it’s super important. I’m a worrier, and my gut reaction is to freak out about interviews and drive myself crazy with the pressure. But, this time around, I’ve found that the interviews I feel the best about afterwards are the ones that I didn’t overprepare for, the ones where I was just a more polished version of myself. My advice is to do your research on the company and the people you’re interviewing with, and practice the standard questions a few times to yourself, and a few times with a friend. DO NOT memorize your answers. This will only lead to you freaking out even more when you can’t remember every word, or sounding like a machine when you answer like you’re reciting from a script. Know yourself, your experience, and what makes you a great candidate for the job, and believe in yourself. You’ll be good to go!
3. Apply to jobs that ask for more experience than you technically have. When I first graduated from college, I was afraid to do this, even though I’d had three very substantive internships. Now, I don’t let numbers hold me back. If a position sounds perfect for you, and you feel that your skills and experience would allow you to bring a lot to that organization, go ahead and apply. So what if it says 3-5 years and you only have two? Your two years may end up being more relevant than everyone else’s 3-5. Put yourself out there, and go for it!
