5 Job Search Strategies for the Highly Sensitive Individual

Finding a new job should not exhaust you!

Are you worried about leaving your job but know that if you don’t, you’ll go insane? Do you get overwhelmed just thinking about interviews and updating your resume? Do the words “Networking” make you cringe so much that you’d rather wish on a shooting star?

1. All of the preceding was (and continues to be) true for me. You are probably not a fan of the job search as a Highly Sensitive Person. Here are some pointers you can use right away to get started on your job search and avoid burnout. Get Organized- Do not attempt to begin anything unless you have a system in place. That looks like a Trello board to me. For each stage of the interview, I make a list. Doing so at the start of your search will save you time and stress later on. You’ll be able to clearly see where each potential job is in your funnel. This will reduce the anxiety you feel when you’re overwhelmed and can’t remember what roles you’ve applied for or who you’ve spoken with.
2. Limitation Advice: Avoid using the search engine! HSPs can get stuck in the middle. You know, that place where you want to make your resume stand out with color font but also want to keep it classic with black font? The issue isn’t your ability to stand out or be creative; it’s that you’re taking in too much advice. Stick to the basics and do what has previously worked for you. If you want to change careers or learn how to ace an interview, talk to someone you trust about it and then commit to only reading three articles on the subject. Any longer, and you risk experiencing analysis paralysis.
3. Be Prepared- This is a no-brainer. Take the time to prepare questions, conduct a background check on your interviewer, and research the company. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes, conduct your research, and then keep going. HSPs require time to prepare in order to feel at ease. Also, bring extra copies of your resume and cover letter, a notepad with your questions already written on it, and, of course, a pen! Pack a healthy snack and your clothes the night before.
4. 2.0 Networking- HSPs network best when they are in more intimate settings. In other words, scheduling a large number of informational interviews is a better idea. You should avoid late-night networking events. They will most likely exhaust you. Here’s a tried-and-true strategy that works for me: Request that your closest friends allow you to search their LinkedIn network for people to whom you can be introduced. They will almost certainly say yes. Then you can arrange coffee dates with your friends’ contacts. If you do this instead of staying out late, you will achieve the same goal of effectively networking.

Rest!
I’m an introverted HSP who enjoys staying busy. I need to remind myself to give myself permission to stop. Only you know when you’ve reached your breaking point. When you arrive, make time for yourself. It can be as simple as going to bed 30 minutes earlier or as extravagant as spending a day at the spa. Do what makes you happy while respecting your HSP body’s desire for rest. You both deserve and require it.