Looking after your mental health whilst job seeking

Finding yourself suddenly and unexpectedly unemployed can be one of the most stressful periods in your life. The pressure and stress of financial worries, plus a general loss of purpose can easily consume you very quickly.

Here are some hints and tips to help you to try and take back some control of the uncertainty in an uncertain time.

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Our mental health partner
Wagstaff Careers Coaching are proud to support positive mental health in partnership with Clare Davis of Nova Associates.

Live your normal life as much as possible.

• Keep to a daily routine. This is especially important on weekdays.
• Get up, shower, get dressed, and have breakfast. Start the day as you normally would.
• Check your emails. Review any new job alerts or opportunities that have come in overnight.
• Use a diary to log and keep track of callbacks to people you want to stay connected to, whether that’s recruiters, a community, or someone within your industry.
• If your call isn’t answered, or your voicemail message isn’t returned, don’t give up! Drop the person an email instead to stay connected and keep your name visible.

Keep your mind occupied.

• Use LinkedIn so that you feel engaged with your industry, sector, or specialism. Engage with posts, comment on things, and share content that you like.
• Follow up on applications that you make, and connect directly with the hiring managers. Don’t let them forget your name!
• If you enjoy writing, this is a great time to start an industry-related blog.
• Find out if there are any free courses you can attend to refresh your skills or even learn a new skill or hobby.
• Make time for exercise, even if it is just a daily walk. Fresh air does wonders for the mind.
• Keep being social with friends and family.
• Volunteer with local charities, groups, or other organisations close by.
• Make a list of what you want to achieve each week. It feels great when you can start ticking things off as “done” but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t complete everything on the list either!

Maybe your list could look something like this?

• Connect with 10 new hiring managers who are of interest to me.
• Find 5 new companies I would like to work with.
• Follow up on the applications I made last week.
• Follow up with the 5 most important recruiters I know that can help me.
• Post on LinkedIn that I am actively seeking work, using relevant hashtags to get noticed.
• Try and find 5 more jobs to apply for.
• Seek out a volunteering job.