I am off to see a career consultant who is going to help tweak my resume and provide me with other job hunting information. Lisa said something to me yesterday that has given me a sense of relief. I confided in her that just thinking about resumes, job hunting and interviews puts me in a state of extreme agitation, anxiety and discomfort. She said I just need to get 3 interviews under my belt. Once I experienced it three times, I would be fine. And besides, all things pass. I will be looking back at this period in my life before I even know it.
I need to convince myself that I LOVE looking for jobs. Talking about myself and my accomplishments is FUN! (Can you believe I hate talking about myself? Isn’t that ridiculous coming from a blogger who only writes about her life?)
At least I know one thing…. it can’t be any more pulverizing than online dating.

Donna,
What you need to realize about the dating and the work “interview” process is YOU have the power. They are interviewing you as much as your are interviewing them. Make sure you ask questions and things that are of interest to you, you woulden’t want to go to work for or date somebody who’s a complete jerk…. Anyways don’t worry about it. Just be your normal confortable self and be confident. That goes a VERY long way.
-Jason
I’d agree confidence is a big factor. We just added a new therapist to our department, and being in close proximity to my supervisor’s office, I heard him talking to the HR person about which of the 3 candidates he hired. He said that one of the candidates just didn’t seem confident and he felt that she may not last long in the position.
I think Donna has some huge advantages going into an interview. You’ve been with your company for 10 years, even through the most recent times when they’ve been jerking you around. That shows loyalty, perseverence, and adaptability. You’re very poised and you do convey a lot of confidence.
I also agree with Lisa. It was the same when I was interviewing. Once you have 2 or 3 under your belt, you know what to expect, so you’re a lot more comfortable.