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Stuck in a Job…With Paralyzing Stress

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Our career choices can give us purpose, as well as pain.

Many people feel like they are ‘stuck’ in their job – like there’s no way out – and they’re unsure how to get out or where to go.

  • For some, it may be easier to change jobs or even careers and move on.
  • For others, it can feel overwhelming and may not seem like a realistic option for multiple reasons.
    • Maybe you have a family that depends on your income, and the sheer thought of leaving your job makes you worry that it would create a gap in your finances and cash flow.
    • Or maybe you’ve applied to other jobs, but you haven’t gotten any responses, and you’re feeling rejected.

Often there are viable options, but it could simply be that you don’t know where to begin.  Generally speaking, identifying a good-fit option, when changing careers or jobs depends upon matching a job/career with:

  • Your attributes – transferable experience and skills (that you enjoy using), personality style, interests, values, natural abilities, and other factors influencing this decision.
  • Your goals – your desired lifestyle and income.
  • Job market reality – it’s important that the employment segment you’re considering is actively hiring.

3 steps for getting unstuck and exploring your options:

  1. Gain a realistic and thorough understanding of your attributes.
  2. Clarify your goals.
  3. Understand the job market.

Keep in mind – small amounts of stress about work are common, such as having a big presentation coming up. But feeling like you’re trapped is something you may need to look at, for your own happiness and well-being, as well as, the happiness and well-being of the people who care about you.

If you’re experiencing any of the following, then it’s time to get professional coaching support:

  • You feel stuck or trapped
  • You get the Sunday blues
  • You spend a lot of time venting about your job
  • You don’t have the energy for outside activities or socializing with friends

Marilyn can help – with clarifying your attributes, identifying job/career options, revising your resume and LinkedIn so they are targeted to your job direction, creating a robust job search plan, and fine-tuning your interview skills.

To schedule a complimentary 10-minute introductory meeting or your full 45-minute consultation please email Marilyn at: Marilyn@fettnercareerconsulting.com

4 Things to Do While Looking for a Job – especially During the Holidays!

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Looking for work is stressful and tiring, especially around the holidays. It can be easy to get into a rut and lose focus on your goal. But being strategic about your job hunt can give you the motivation to keep going. Here are 4 things every job seeker should do to maximize chances for success.

  1. Start networking like it’s your job

You need to get out and start networking like your job depends on it…because it does! Although virtual networking has its role, nothing replaces meeting someone ‘in person.’  Yes, it may feel awkward to go to an event where you don’t know people, but the more connections you make, the easier it will be to find your next dream job.

  • To help you prepare – start a collection of ‘conversation starters’ and practice them out loud to get comfortable. (Yes, out loud!) Also – prepare some responses to questions you may be asked.
  • Visualize yourself having a relaxed and enjoyable time at a networking event or holiday party. Repeat the positive visualization and stay focused on your goal.
  • By being prepared, you’ll be more comfortable and have a better chance of making some good connections – and maybe even enjoy yourself!
  1. Take breaks

While it’s important to keep yourself motivated and productive, it’s also important to carve out time for rest and relaxation. Looking for a job can be one of life’s most stressful events, so building in some time for self-care–like exercising and spending time with friends–can keep you sane during the process.  It can also keep you feeling positive, which is critical for networking – and interviewing!

  1. Get on LinkedIn. If you already have a profile, ensure it’s optimized

Employers are increasingly using social media to vet potential employees. Your LinkedIn profile is going to be at the top of the search results, when employers search your name online. Invest time to make sure your profile is complete, current, and accurately showcases your skills and experience.

  • Ask your connections to endorse you with personal and professional recommendations
  • Ensure you have a current professional photo as part of your profile
  • Use key phrases in your headline and check that your summary strategically highlights your employment experience
  1. Get Organized

Job searching is messy.  You need to make sure you’re keeping track of your network, everyone you’ve reached out to, and give yourself reminders to circle back with them in order to make progress. In addition to tracking and updating your network, you also need to organize other components of looking for a job:

  • Design a targeted job search and networking plan.
  • Create a list of targeted employers and build network contacts in those organizations.
  • Follow your plan and review often to identify what’s working and what needs to be adjusted.

If you want to explore how to land your dream job, contact Marilyn today!

TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY 10-MINUTE INTRODUCTORY MEETING OR YOUR FULL 45-MINUTE CONSULTATION PLEASE EMAIL MARILYN AT: MARILYN@FETTNERCOUNSELING.COM