How to Overcome Your Fear of Job Search Cold Calling

Cold calling job search leads is a great way to find open positions, get interviews, learn about a profession, and generally power up your job search. But it may not feel great when you think about doing it. Indeed, cold calling strikes terror into even seasoned professionals who have been in the workforce probably far longer than you. To tap the power of this potent job search tool, follow these tips for getting over your fears and making these crucial calls.

It's Not Personal
Constantly remind yourself that anything the person on the other end of line says to you isn't a judgement about you as a person. You're still a great individual that's worthy of acceptance, no matter what they say. To help with this, get in the habit of following every negative thing anybody says with "According to you," or "In Your Opinion." And it's just that -- their opinion. Opinions are often completely wrong.

The Person's Negativity Has Nothing to Do With Your Call
If the person on the other end of the line sounds testy or refuses to help, it probably doesn't have the slightest thing to do with you or the fact that you called. The person may just be having a bad day. Or you may have inadvertantly called right as his boss finished chewing him out. Whatever. It doesn't matter, so don't dwell on it. Go to the next number on your list and dial.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
Focus on what you're trying to accomplish. There are going to be awkward, frustrating moments along the way. But if you've chosen compelling goals that really excite you, then it's easier to look past all the little annoyances and hurts along the way.

Work on Your Self Image
Lack of resilience is often a self-esteem issue. The stronger your image of yourself, the harder it is to get wrapped up in anything people might say to you. Read some of the many great self-help books out there, be aware of what you're feeling, and keep after it. Seeking the help of a professional counselor can speed up the transformation. The better you feel about yourself, the harder it is for anyone to knock you down.

They Can't See How Terrified You Are
Remember that the person on the other end of the line can't see you tremble, sweat, or fumble for notes. And the nervousness that you're sure is obvious over the phone probably isn't coming through as much you think. Furthermore, there's a very good chance this person has never seen you before and never will again. So relax. The stakes aren't all that high in any one call.

You're Not Being an Intrusion
The person you're talking to has probably done plenty of cold calls for job search leads too. Even in the unlikely chance that they can tell you're scared, they almost certainly won't look down on you for it. They've been there too.

Keep Track of Your Successes
Don't let a bad conversation or a string of poor luck muddy the great contacts, interviews, and advice you'll receive along the way. Write down your successes and review the list before every cold-call session you do.

Just Do It
Nothing beats practice and repetition for overcoming fears and getting more comfortable with a situation. You might have to practically hold a gun to your head to get yourself to make the first bunch of calls. But trust me, it gets easier. Keep at it, remember these tips and just do it. You'll be glad you did.