Scared of job applications

[Lyssaa]

Hey everyone,

I'm 18 years old and at the end of the month I'm going to start applying for a new casual job. My current job which I've had for nearly two years now isn't giving me many hours at all, and I believe it's because I'm now one of the older and therefore more expensive employees. 

It's been a long time since I've last handed out resumes and I'm getting so much anxiety over it. My plan is to hand out a bunch of resumes in person as well as applying to places online, but the thought of handing out resumes in person literally gives me so much anxiety that I feel sick to my stomach. I don't know why, but I have this intense feeling that whoever at the front counter is taking my resume is going to judge me or think I'm a massive loser. I'm also afraid that nowhere is going to be interested in hiring me. 

I've deciced to wait until the end of the month to hand out my resumes because I'm going on holiday in a week for most of the rest of the month, so there's really no point in applying anywhere until I get back. Despite having made this choice I have this horrible sick guilty feeling in my stomach, like I should be working more right now even though its not a choice that I'm getting less hours at work. 

I know my fear of handing out resumes in person because they're going to judge or hate me is completely irrational, but I'm still feeling this awful overwhelming sense of anxiety. Does anyone have any kind of reassurances for me, or any ways to manage this anxiety?

Lyssa 

[Summer Rose]

Hi Lyssa

I am an employer and I can tell you that your plan of personally handing out resumes is a good one. It shows you have initiative and immediately sets you apart from the crowd. 
I always put the dropped off resumes at the top of the pile to review when making my short list. 
In short: no one is going to think you’re a loser for dropping off your resume. Dress nice, smile and be polite and you will shine.

I don’t know what industry you’re working in or what location you live in, but many businesses particularly in regional areas are desperate for workers. So, waiting until you’re ready to start makes sense as they may want to put you on quickly.

Pushing through your anxiety is hard, I know. But I think you can do it and you will be so proud of yourself when it’s done. Good luck!

Kind thoughts to you

[romantic_thi3f]

Hey Lyssa,

Well done on looking for a new job! Such a great idea and I hope it isn't too long until you find one that's a good fit.

Oh I can relate to this a lot.  Especially tough when you go to hand out a resume and they say apply online 😣  but as Summer Rose said, it takes a ton of initiative and sets you apart from the crowd.  I'm not sure what work you're looking for but so many times it really is about a friendly face which you just can't see on a piece of paper.

I actually used to work in retail and we would have people drop off resumes all the time.  Some would come in super shaky and some would be super confident and everything in between, but I didn't mind at all.  My boss loved it anyway because it still takes a ton of bravery.

Once you do the first one, it gets a little easier.  

Best of luck!

rt

[jaz28]

Hi Lyssa,

I know it can be tough looking for a new job - being the new person sucks when you don't know the ropes and have to start from scratch. But here's the thing - every single person at that job was once new like you, and had to learn so keep that in mind! Handing out your resume in person does look better, but it is okay to be nervous. However, it shows more initiative and drive as Summer Rose pointed out. Sometimes the best experiences and decisions in life come from stepping out of your comfort zone - which is what you might have to do here. Waiting until you get back is a sensible idea - and don't worry about working right now - you're only 18 and have your whole life to work - enjoy the time off while you can!

I always look at people who drop their resumes into my work with admiration and respect for their confidence. There is absolutely no reason I would think they're a loser! I forget about it less than 5minutes later...I am sure others would too!

I hope it goes well,

Jaz xx