Job Hunting Routine
The
instant anyone becomes unemployed—regardless of the reason—something odd occurs.
A routine is broken. Suddenly, the individual feels upside down. Some may feel
relieved, but the overwhelming majority go through the five stages of grief.
Losing
employment ranks up there with death of a valued friend. From a psychological
prospective, it is important for the job seeker to process through the grief stages
as quickly as possible. The quicker an individual passes through these stages,
the faster the bounce back. The longer this process takes, the more likely you
will encounter a very angry and frustrated job seeker.
Without
going into a lengthy dissertation, here are the capsulized stages of grief:
1.
Denial
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This occurs when one shifts blame to someone else, or denies reality.
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2.
Anger
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This occurs when one direct anger toward others—including strangers.
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3.
Bargain
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This occurs when one rationalizes what
ifs to escape reality. Some resort to making secret vows.
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4.
Depression
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This is the most difficult and potentially dangerous stage. It
manifests itself through feels of sadness, regret, worry and/or anxiety. When
this becomes the new daily routine, professional help may be needed.
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5.
Acceptance
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This occurs when the job seeker is able to cope with the job loss, and
return to a productive routine. If (when) the individual fails to reach this
stage, the individual will never make a productive transition.
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While
the first four stages do not always occur in chronological order, the acceptance stage consistently occurs
last. Ultimately, an unemployed individual needs to arrive at this stage. In
short, sooner is better than later or never.
Everyone
is a product of his or her routines. Those with productive routines fair difficulties
and challenges better than those who proceed aimlessly through the job market. The
moment established routines are broken; one becomes irritated, annoyed,
frustrated and/or disoriented. Here are some quick reminders while performing a
job search:
1.
Do not alter sleeping routine or
change the alarm clock setting.
2.
Do not alter eating habits—unless
it is to eat smarter.
3.
Do not stay home and lounge—there
is work to be done.
4.
Do not occupy time performing household
chores during the week.
5.
Do not stop exercising—unless you
have not started.
While
these routines seem logical, most job seekers—especially those with prolonged
unemployment, tend to behave irrationally. Too often, job seekers unwittingly
alter daily routines, and upend their emotional compass and job-hunting psyche.