Job Search Self-Sabotage and How to Stop It
Job searching can be a rollercoaster of emotions—excitement, anxiety, hope, and most of the time frustration. But what if some of that frustration is self-inflicted? The truth is, self-sabotage can sneak into your job search in subtle ways, undermining your efforts without you even realizing it.
The Sneaky Ways Self-Sabotage Shows Up
Procrastination
You've found the perfect job listing, but instead of applying right away, you put it off until the deadline is looming—or worse, you miss the deadline altogether. Procrastination is a classic form of self-sabotage, often driven by fear of rejection or failure.Perfectionism
You spend hours tweaking your resume or rewriting your cover letter, but it never feels good enough to submit. While striving for excellence is admirable, perfectionism can paralyze you, preventing you from taking action.Negative Self-Talk
Thoughts like "I'm not qualified enough", “The market is oversaturated”, or "I'll never get this job" can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you believe these negative thoughts, your motivation drops, and you may unconsciously hold back during the application process or interviews. Remember, you achieve, what you believe!Avoidance of Networking
Networking is a critical part of the job search, and it can be intimidating. If you avoid reaching out to connections or attending networking events because you're uncomfortable or fear rejection, you're limiting your opportunities.Settling for Less
Maybe you’ve convinced yourself the job market is too competitive (because the news says it is) or you’ve been applying for jobs that you're overqualified for or that don't excite you are other forms of self-sabotage. It might feel safer to aim lower, but it can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of motivation in the long run.
Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage
Recognizing self-sabotage is the first step toward overcoming it. Here are some strategies to help you get out of your own way:
Set Small, Achievable Goals
Break down the job search process into smaller tasks, like updating your resume, researching companies, or connecting with a certain number of network connections each week. This can make the process feel less overwhelming and help you stay on track.Practice Positive Self-Talk
Challenge negative thoughts by reminding yourself of your strengths and past successes. Instead of focusing on what you lack, emphasize what you bring to the table. Keep a journal or look yourself in the mirror and reconfirm what you already know about yourself: you’re a badass!Seek Accountability
Work with a Career Coach or tell a friend or family member about your job search goals so they can check in on your progress or hold you accountable. Having someone else involved can help you stay motivated and prevent procrastination.Embrace Imperfection
Remember that your application doesn't have to be perfect—just good enough to showcase your skills and experience. Sometimes, good enough is all you need to get your foot in the door. Remember the 80/20 rule!Invest in Professional Help
If you're struggling to break the cycle of self-sabotage on your own, consider working with a career coach. They can provide personalized guidance, keep you accountable, and help you navigate the job search with confidence.
The Impact of Career Coaching
Career coaching isn't just for executives or people in career transitions. It can be a game-changer for anyone struggling with self-sabotage during their job search.
According to a study by the International Coach Federation, 80% of people who received coaching reported increased self-confidence, and 70% saw an improvement in work performance.
Additionally, a survey by Lee Hecht Harrison found that job seekers who worked with a career coach were 60% more likely to secure a job than those who didn’t.
Don’t Let Self-Sabotage Hold You Back
Your dream job is out there, and you deserve to find it. Actually, you WILL find it. Don’t let self-sabotage stand in your way. By recognizing and addressing these behaviors, you can approach your job search with renewed focus and confidence.
Ready to take the next step? Consider partnering with a career coach to help you navigate the job search process and overcome any barriers standing in your way. Investing in yourself now can pay off in the long run with the career you’ve always wanted.