How to handle senior year job search stress 

Let’s be real – the job market is difficult for any person on the search, but for a new grad, it feels terrifying. How can I compare to people who have worked in my industry for years? What if I don’t have enough experience on my resume? What if I get rejected from every job I apply to? 

It’s time to shift the mindset. Positivity truly can usher in success, and in an already unknown time period, trying to think positively might be the ingredient to solving job search anxiety. Although it may seem like you’re alone in this, the following tips are meant to keep you resilient and inspired during the highs and lows.

Redefine your mentality of the job search 

The ideal mindset: it’s rerouting, not rejection, so go from fear to opportunity. Whether it’s a no, or a maybe, it can be helpful to think of rejection as an opportunity to gain experience interviewing. Job interviews can seem daunting, and rejections are disappointing, but changing the way you look at  rejection will improve your mentality going forward in the job search. Every rejection is an opportunity to improve your strategy, strengthen your perseverance, and move one step closer to the ideal outcome.

Concentrate on the things you can manage

Networking, attitude, and resumes are key components of effective job search strategies. Focus on the things that are in your control: networking with people working in fields that interest you; perfecting your resume, website or portfolio; researching the best ways to go about the job application process. You will gain confidence and open up more opportunities for yourself if you concentrate on your areas of improvement.

Make sure to appreciate small victories

Every LinkedIn conversation, email, and application matters –  progress is progress.

Everyone needs to start somewhere, and sending out that first application or email is the best place to start. The job application process can seem intimidating, but checking a few applications off that never ending to-do list will help motivate you to continue to apply to more jobs and contact more potential employers. You get closer to your goal of making a breakthrough with every little step you take.

Stay out of the comparison trap

Your timeline belongs to you, not your roommate, classmate or LinkedIn.

A college senior might scroll through LinkedIn daily just to find their peers’ posts announcing where they’re working post-graduation. It can definitely feel discouraging to know that your classmates’ futures are already decided and their plans are made; however, there are numerous students just like you whose plans post-grad are unknown. You’re not alone in this process and those posting their exciting news on social media are just a few of the many graduating this spring.

Rely on your network of support

Your natural support system consists of your friends, family, and instructors. Never be afraid to ask for help from your friends, family, and professors. They might know potential connections and can offer support and constructive criticism. A great resource for seniors navigating the application process is Syracuse University’s Career Services, which offers resume critiques, individualized counseling, and job search tactics. Do some research about your available academic resources – they’re there to help you!

Don’t feel bad about taking breaks

Breaks are crucial to avoid burnout. Spend time doing things that make you happy, plan a fun activity with a friend, and make sure to take care of yourself. This is necessary to maintain motivation and concentration. When you are in the midst of the job search, taking a break from applications might boost your productivity and attitude. Keep in mind that patience is just as vital as perseverance.

Have faith that everything will work out

You’ll land where you’re supposed to, even if it doesn’t happen how or when you expect.

Even if things don’t turn out how you expected, have faith that the right opportunity will present itself. Although it’s natural to feel discouraged when things don’t go as planned or to compare yourself to others, each person’s journey is different. Every experience, whether it be an interview, a rejection, or an unanticipated detour, helps you prepare for the ideal position. Continue to work hard, have patience and have faith that you will find yourself in the right place.

Ultimately, have hope that everything will unfold according to plan for you and that you’ll be prepared for the right opportunity when it presents itself. Use tools like Handshake, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Syracuse University’s Career Services to get started in the meantime.