The Best Job Search Tips for Introverts

Searching for a job, in and of itself, is a daunting task. But when you’re an introvert, it can seem downright impossible. Networking with near-strangers and putting yourself out there day in and day out can feel exhausting. Use these tips to make the job search process more manageable, and to increase your chances of finding an opportunity that’s perfect for you:

• Know what you do and don’t want out of a job: You don’t have to be ashamed of your personality type. Instead, embrace it and use it to shape your job search. Don’t put yourself in a position where you’re accepting a job that you know will make you feel uncomfortable. Instead, seek out a position that works with your character traits, allowing you to thrive.
• Position your personality in a positive light: Many introverts feel that they have to apologize for their personalities, when in reality quite the opposite is true. While the idea of giving an off-the-cuff presentation in front of people you don’t know may terrify you, you’re probably also a thoughtful individual and a great listener too. Instead of apologizing away the things you’re not great at, emphasize the traits that make you a valuable employee and an asset to a company.
• Show up prepared: For many introverts, feeling prepared for an interview can make a major difference when it comes to easing jitters. While extroverts get a rush out of improvising responses, this is panic-inducing for introverted personality types. To make the situation more manageable, come up with some talking points that you definitely want to hit during the conversation. You’ll feel much more prepared and calm.
• Don’t plan multiple interviews in one day: Introverts need time to recharge in between intense social interactions, which means that scheduling multiple interviews in one day isn’t a good idea. In order to perform your best, spread these conversations out over the course of a few days.

While you shouldn’t try to change your personality, you can still make it a point to challenge yourself and grow every day. Strike up a conversation with the person in line behind you at the grocery store, or force yourself to attend at least one networking event per month. Getting outside of your comfort zone helps to boost your self-confidence, which benefits you during job interviews.

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