Signs That You Might Have Analysis Paralysis While Searching For A New Job

Going from the mental state of what I call “Analysis Paralysis” to becoming a “Career Implementor” can be a difficult transition. I have been a Career Coach for many years. Let’s just say when I started my career, George H.W. Bush was the 41st President of the United States. I have worked with students, people seeking first jobs after graduation, career transitioners, CEOs, individuals with emotional and physical differences, doctors, retirees … just to name a few. I have worked with both individuals who I consider to have Analysis Paralysis and those who create opportunities and changes in their lives who I call Career Implementors. 

Do you consider yourself to be someone who has Analysis Paralysis or are you a Career Implementor? Consider this… 

Symptoms of Analysis Paralysis during a job search: 

  • Over analyzing, putting things off, fearing failure, feeling powerless, avoiding reality. 
  • Extensively researching without doing anything with the results. 
  • Constantly revising resumes, making millions of changes and never sending to employers because of fear it is not good enough. 
  • Applying to jobs online expecting to get an interview without any networking. 
  • Identifying tasks to accomplish and never following through, never setting deadlines or timelines. 
  • Lacking organizational systems, failing to keep track of job applications, not following up, not managing emails or returning messages in a timely manner or at all.  
  • Giving into negative self-talk, giving up in the job search process, feeling defeated. 

Common behaviors of Career Implementors: 

  • Making lemonade out of lemons; turning negative situations into positive. 
  • Revising and updating resumes based on research and incorporating key words to each individual job posting as needed.  
  • Creating timelines and sticking to deadlines. 
  • Determining a plan B. If plan A does not work, plan B is executed.  
  • Recognizing that filling out applications online is just one part of the process and it should not be the only tool used to attain a job. Other tools in the toolbelt include utilizing LinkedIn, joining associations, attending virtual networking meetings etc. 
  • Stepping outside the comfort zone, taking chances, understanding mistakes might happen but mistakes are ways to learn.  
  • Asking for help to save time, access resources, and relieve stress. 
  • Working with a Career Coach to monitor accountability.  
  • Following up with connections, reaching out to hiring managers directly. 
  • Practicing positive self-talk to increase self-confidence. 

No matter which category you fall into, remember that seeking and obtaining employment is not an easy process and it is labor intensive. Searching for a job is a full-time job in and of itself! Job seekers attempting to transition from the mental state of Analysis Paralysis to becoming a Career Implementor can find themselves in uncharted territory. Just making the decision of where to start in the job search process can be an intimidating task for some.  

The coaches at the Ignite Career Center offer career plans for success in your journey from inaction to action! Set up a free consultation with an Ignite Career Coach today and take your next step to accomplish your career goals. To make an appointment call 410-466-9200. 

Whether you are new to the job market or a seasoned professional, the Ignite Career Center, a program of Jewish Community Services, can help you go farther and get there faster.  Our highly experienced Career Coaches provide individuals of all backgrounds and abilities with the customized services and tools they need to stand out from the competition.  For information, call 410-466-9200 or contact us through our website.

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