A definition of stress, is the body's reaction to a change that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response.

This is certainly the case when candidates are seeking a new job or moving to new positions within their chosen career or profession. It is also about how people deal with changes to their life/work environment and circumstances which although can be intiated by them, they find themselves playing by rules they are not familiar with. This can cause stress or a feeling of trepidation, isolation and powerlessness because unfamilarity creates uncertainty.

This is the case when looking for a new job in particular. A person is moving out of their confort zone and entering an essentially unknown process environment that can be as vague and illogical even to those working within it.

The best way to counter stress is through knowledge and understanding which builds confidence. Confidence is what you are aiming for because it provides assurance and self-possession of the situation. You are taking control of the change confronting you.

Some way to achieve control and reduce stress;

»   Understand the process you have to operate in. Get to know the recruitment process, who is involved, if you can identify names then even better. Learn what is required, the inputs to the process and timescales. Finding a new job is more than simply posting a CV.

»  Understand what is required for you to play your part and always remember you are a valuable member of this process. A well preperred CV would be an obvious contribution, but is this all? Are recruiters expecting a Cover Letter, or other work history documentation as well as original copies of course, college, university certificates?

»  Be prepared, gather all evidence of work and learning history and read to familiarise yourself again as you may be asked questions on them. Remember just because you have documentation does not mean this is enough to present to others. They will expect that you know your own history without the paperwork, so gain the initiative that is in your power and prepare your case.

»  Make contact with as many in the recruitment process as possible. You will find them all human and in all cases very willing to help. Interaction with others removes any feelings of isolation as you are not the only one at the centre of this change. You can also gain more information about the role itself.

»  Contact with others within the recruitment process will improve your knowledge, and invariably you could pick up key tips helping you to make the difference.

» Be honest about the role you are applying for. It is not in anyones interest to throw a CV at a role which has no chance of succeeding to capture. Our rule is the 75/25, if you fulfill to 75% of the role then that leave 25% for your career growth. For the recruiter, if the 25% is filled with additonal experience you have outside the role but which can be used to bring a difference, that this may be all it takes to be successful.

»  Confidence should tell you that potential employers need you just as much as you want them. So if you make it to an interview then you must have something they want. On that basis there is no reason why an interview should be anything other than a fair exchange and interaction of people seeking the same outcome with equal measure. Do not feel inferior or unduely pressured, if you have prepared well then you have all the facts.

»   Be disappointed if you are unsuccessful but also understand that not everyone can win the position. You must look at your own preparation and performance on the day and ask yourself did you do your best? If you didn't then do better next time. If you did then most likely you were simply up against another candidate that had more or different work experience that more closely matched the role requirements. Do not disparage the successful candidate, because they are a reflection of you, and have worked just as hard.

»  There are no winners or losers in seeking employment and the recruitment process. The process can frustrate but it works. What can make the difference to you is how you fulfil your part.