Preparing for the job hunt
Yay it’s time for the job hunt! (Said nobody ever!). The thought of find a new job is generally something that inspires much dread. As an ops gal, I take much comfort in relying on a structure and process to enable work that I’m not looking forward to.
From my recent experience here are the things I would prioritize to get ready for a job search:
Get organized
Once you start looking for a job, you instantly become your own biggest sales person. And so, you have to look the part!
I’d start with:
Physically showing up well
Get a hair cut
Have a few interview outfits ready - something that feels good and helps you feel put together - save your sweats for your evening couch session
Pull together a “job hunting” kit
I found it important to leave the house to get into the job hunting mindset. Staying at home means I would be tempted to lay on the couch and binge the latest Netflix or wallow in the misery of being laid off. But crying in public is a little less palatable so to the outside world I went! Here’s my handy list of essentials.
Keep Healthy
Drink enough water
Eat healthy home made meals - this will help you save on money and make you feel better! Those cookbooks that have been collecting dust? Bust em out!
Try to get enough sleep
Workout - doesn’t have to be intense. Try taking some of your meetings as walking meeting (would recommend this for chatting with friends vs. recruiters)
Socialize with the intent of having fun and not job searching (try to retain in some normalcy into your life)
Have a dance party at home
Treat yourself
It doesn’t have to be major, but having something to look forward to at the end of your “workday” can really help you sustained. Some examples are
An episode or two of a show you’ve been wanting to watch
A face mask
A cocktail / mocktail and your fav snack
Indulging in your creative hobby
Tackle things you’ve been putting off
If you are someone who has a little less urgency in your job search and you’re not spending all your waking hours job hunting - this could be a great opportunity to take care of things you normally don’t have the time for
Housekeeping: Are there projects in your home you’ve been trying to tackling for a long time but never have the time for? Be your own Chip Gaines and get after it!
Healthcare: Use up the last of your health benefits - schedule your dental, medical, vision appointments!
Volunteer: give yourself a reason to get out of your house, meet some new people, and renew your sense of purpose outside of work
Travel/Get a change of scene
But Conria did you hear about the looming recession? Yeah yeah! Do you have friends who are always telling you to visit? Ask them if you can crash their couch.
Play tourist in your own city - lots of museums and attractions offer free days - bonus you’re not working, so you can visit these places when they aren’t super busyPick up a new hobby - or if you are me, reengage with one of your 20 abandoned ones
What would you add to the list?
