8 Job Search Myths I'm Refusing to Believe in 2020
Ready to make some serious career moves in 2020 and land a new job you love? In order to get there, start by kicking off the new year by kicking these misconceptions out of your mind. Here are seven myths about the job hunt, busted.
1. There are no jobs for me out there.
While it may feel like there are no jobs for you out there, it's a broad blanket statement to make when there are, quite literally, endless vacancies on the market. Don't believe us? Check out FGB's jobs board — there's bound to be something for everyone. All it takes is opening your mind to different opportunities and putting in the work to land one.
2. The job search process always feels isolating.
Sure, job hunting might feel like an isolating experience — as if you're the only one going through this difficult time trying to get work. But if you join the FGB Official Job Seeker Group and other similar platforms, you'll quickly realize that you are most certainly not alone. There are tons of people just like you in the same boat — and they may even be able to provide some insight as to how they're getting by that could help you.
3. I have to go through the job hunt alone.
Applying for jobs does require some time spent alone, looking up job openings, tailoring your resume, writing cover letters and sending out applications. But you don't have to do it all alone. There are career coaches and recruiters who exist specifically to help you in your job hunt. They can talk you through your search, unpack any obstacles in your way, help you find jobs for which you're a fit, and even help you apply and/or get your foot in the door. And, as a p.s., many of these career coaches and recruiting experts are active members in FGB's community. Try posting a job search question for them to weigh in on today!
4. I don't deserve to make that much money.
Don't let a high pay deter you from applying for jobs. The chances are that you do deserve that salary, you've just never been paid so well before because either you've never asked, it wasn't in the company's budget, you were being paid unfairly before or you've since developed more skills that warrant a higher pay. Believe in yourself, do your research to understand the market standard and go after what you most certainly do deserve in the new year.
5. Finding a job in a different industry is impossible.
While it's not always easy transitioning into a new industry that's totally different from the work you've been doing all along, it's not impossible. It just requires some networking, some studying or volunteering, some creativity and some self-confidence. Learn more about how to find a job in a different industry with no experience here.
6. I don't have enough experience to get that job.
Just because a job advertisement calls for someone with 10 years of experience doesn't make it illegal to apply to the job with only, say, seven years of experience. Don't waste your time applying for jobs for which you absolutely don't have the necessary know-how, but it doesn't hurt to push yourself and shoot for positions that may be a little higher up than you've had before. Besides, studies show that men apply for jobs despite their lesser experience all the time and that women tend to avoid applying unless they're 100% qualified. Well, you can put yourself out there, too. There's no harm in trying.
7. I shouldn't quit my job before finding a new one.
Quitting your job before finding a new one is a risky move, but that doesn't mean that there's never a time to do it. In fact, tons of women have quit their jobs without any opportunities lined up for a whole host of valid reasons. Whether you work in a toxic environment, you're having health complications to which you need to tend or your current job is simply taking a toll on your mental health, sometimes the wiser move is to... well, move.
8. I need to find a job that defines me.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a job that you love or with which you necessarily identify. It's OK to work for a paycheck so you can enjoy your weekends and afford your lifestyle. It doesn't mean you're failing at building a career for yourself if your job doesn't consume you; it just means that you're human and you're allowed to have different parts and interests.
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AnnaMarie Houlis is a feminist, a freelance journalist and an adventure aficionado with an affinity for impulsive solo travel. She spends her days writing about women’s empowerment from around the world. You can follow her work on her blog, HerReport.org, and follow her journeys on Instagram @her_report, Twitter @herreport and Facebook.
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