Don't be a Debbie Downer

Originally posted on Monday, August 08, 2011 5:45 PM
Do you have an attitude of gratitude, or are you a Debbie Downer?  Coming from someone named Debbie - I am upbeat and positive most of the time.  Obviously none of us are perfect, but I can honestly say that I am a pretty confident subject matter expert when it comes to projecting a positive attitude, especially as it relates to the job search arena Here are some helpful hints for those of you in the job market to help you:  

~ Keep on Smilin'~

1.  Take care of yourself.  Get enough sleep (7 to 8 hours a day), and eat healthy. This stressful time often gives us carte blanch for eating anything and everything we desire. Remember you need to fit into your interview suit.  Try to exercise regularly - even if it is just a 20 minute a day walk.  A walk will not only get you fresh air, increase endorphines but it will also give you 20 minutes to plan your job search strategy or to prepare for that up and coming interview. 

2.  Preparation ~ preparation~preparation - Of all the important advice you can get concerning the job search, preparing is KEY. There are so many ways that you need to prepare, I will try to cover the most important.  Research the company.  Google or Bing the company's web site and read it thoroughly.  Know about products, people and places they are located.  Practice Interviewing - have a friend relative or even better, a Career Coach go through a mock interview with you.  This can be done in person or on Skype.  A prepared job candidate will have a more confident attitude.  Your self confidence will improve with each interview as long as you keep trying to improve. 

3.  Do not let the stress of life get you down. If the news stresses you out, avoid the TV or newspaper the day of or before the interview.  If your mother-in-law stresses you out, try to avoid her during the days leading up to the interview. 

4.  Laughter is a great antidote for negative thinking.  Try to watch funny TV or movies instead of something dark and intense.  Be around people who are upbeat and encouraging. Listen to something light and fun on the way to the interview.  I recommend "Silly Songs" by Veggie Tales or Bach or Beethoven (although not funny they are calming).  The act of job hunting whether you are unemployed or not and just looking for a better opportunity, is difficult.  Staying focused and upbeat is a good way to get comfortable prior to the interview. Hopefully using one or more of these ideas will make your job search strategy more comfortable and ultimately bring about that ~ Dream Job. 

As always - All the best in your job search, 

Deb  

Deborah Sutton