By: Ashley Croneis, Administrative Assistant at Pocketbook Agency
Whether you’re embarking on a career change, seeking professional growth, or in need of a fresh beginning, the process of finding a new job can often feel like a challenging and arduous journey. Nevertheless, if you make a conscious effort to pause and approach your applications mindfully while staying true to yourself, this journey holds the promise of becoming a meaningful, fulfilling, and successful experience. To help you navigate this path with renewed perspective and an authentic approach, we present five mindful recommendations below.
Define, Acknowledge, and Embrace your Strengths.
Recognizing and comprehending your strengths lays the groundwork for a productive conversation and forms the basis of your contributions. This enables you to naturally express your genuine capabilities. When you exaggerate or embellish to cater to the employer’s expectations, you undermine your own potential. Eventually, you’ll lose track of what was discussed, and if you’re hired, you’ll inevitably struggle to deliver on your promises. Having a well-defined and authentic skill set serves as an anchor, establishing your worth to the company and providing a solid platform for further growth.
Slow Down.
We understand the sense of urgency that comes with seeking new career opportunities. However, rushing through the process without being fully present in the moment can lead to overlooking important details, overthinking, and underperforming. It’s crucial to pause and carefully review the Job Description of the position you’re applying for. Take note of the required skill set and honestly assess whether you possess the necessary years of experience. Additionally, consider practical factors like geographical location. If the job is in a different city, such as Los Angeles while you’re currently in Manhattan, think realistically about the feasibility of relocating your life, keeping in mind that relocation expenses are typically not covered. Often, our eagerness to embark on something new causes us to lose sight of our current circumstances and capabilities. By slowing down and mindfully navigating each step, we increase our chances of achieving success.
Find Balance & Don’t Take It Personally.
You can’t please everyone, and that’s ok! The constant pursuit of approval and acceptance often leads to adopting the role of a people-pleaser. Being a people pleaser means constantly adapting yourself to meet the needs of others. However, this behavior can cause you to lose sight of your own goals and tasks, undermining your authentic self. Moreover, when you seek validation solely through pleasing others, your perception of feedback and constructive criticism becomes distorted. If you find yourself on this path, it’s critical to pause, readjust your mindset, and regain your mental balance. Having the courage to not take everything personally and genuinely accepting feedback allows for personal growth and development.
Establish and Respect Boundaries.
It is crucial to establish and uphold boundaries when seeking a new position. By setting boundaries throughout the application process, you cultivate a healthy and professional approach. Embracing professional boundaries allows you to project a composed and organized image effortlessly while avoiding the perception of desperation. Failing to establish boundaries can lead to excessive and repetitive emails, miscommunication, and unprofessional behavior, all of which may impact how the hiring team perceives you. Equally important is showing respect for the boundaries set by the recruitment and hiring team. Certain details may not be disclosed due to confidentiality or various aspects behind the scenes that are related to the role you are applying for. It is best to adhere to standard check-in and follow-up procedures, be mindful of boundaries, and refrain from pressuring or prying for information.
Observe, Plant, Grow.
Pay attention to the patterns and trends in the jobs you are applying for. Assess if they align well with your skills and interests, if your resume effectively showcases the required experience, if you meet the qualifications, and if your expectations are realistic. Being authentic in your applications entails being truthful with yourself and embracing your current position in your career journey. If your goal is to transition to a new career, it’s important to start sowing the seeds of that transition and nurturing your aspirations. Embrace opportunities that can bridge the gap between your current and desired careers. Consider temporary or part-time positions that allow you to gain the necessary experience for a successful transition into a full-time role in your desired field. Observe the necessary actions you need to take, plant the seeds for your growth, and allow yourself to naturally evolve into the role of your dreams.