Applying for jobs

I am approaching the end of my studies, and so have started applying for jobs. 

I really hate applying for jobs. It's time consuming. It feels unnatural to write about how great I am. Writing job applications makes me feel insecure. A voice in my head pipes up: 'how dare you apply for this job! You're nowhere near good enough!' It's a disappointing process, because you have to put a lot of energy in, with only small chances of success. 

I have developed a few techniques to help me get through the job application process:  

1. Remember that writing something is better than nothing. There have been times where I have missed job application deadlines because I was too paralyzed by the daunting task of writing the perfect application. It doesn't have to be perfect! If you don't apply, you have zero chance of success. Let go of the need for perfection.
2. Break the application down into small, achievable tasks. This makes it feel less daunting. This is the breakdown of tasks that works for me: 
   • Read through the position description carefully and highlight the main job requirements 
   • Brainstorm my strengths and experience that relate to the job requirements. I think about what story I want to tell with the application, and what I want the potential employer to know about me 
   • Take these strengths, and write out a paragraph for each one. This is a messy draft - I try not to be critical of my writing at this stage
   • Work through each paragraph carefully, going over the wording and refining it
   • Send the application to a few other people to look at 
   • Make any suggested changes and final edits
3. Intentionally build up your self-confidence. What makes you feel more confident? For me, I try to remind myself of my past successes. I like to speak to a few people I trust and actually ask them what they think my strengths are. It's easier for others to see your strengths than for you to see them! This character strengths survey can also be a good way of identifying your strengths. 
4. And finally, apply for lots of jobs! It might take many applications to succeed, and the more practice, the better.