To ask how to not get emotionally attached to interviews?

[WavesofIrritation]

I’ve been job hunting for a while, and I’ve found that I often get really attached to interviews - hoping so much that I’ll get the job, imagining how great it would be, and even picturing myself in the role. But when I don’t hear back or get rejected, I feel really disappointed.

AIBU to ask for advice on how to avoid getting so emotionally invested in the interview process? How do you manage your expectations and keep from getting too attached to a job before you even know the outcome? Any tips on how to stay positive during the search?

I would love to know the answer to this too!

Ideally I'd have more than one application on the go so there's always another opportunity around the corner but that's easier said than done at the moment. I also just try to remind myself it really is a numbers game so you just have to keep applying and eventually you will get there. I also try to view it as being a learning experience so whether or not I get the job it is still time well spent. I still find it very hard not to get sucked in emotionally so keen to hear others' tips.

Good question. It's a bit like getting attached at house viewings, isn't it? And difficult to combat since a house move and a new job effects an enormous portion of your life.

This is a good question, I think it’s something many of us can relate to, especially when we’ve been job hunting for a while. I am not sure what the answer is unfortunately, but you’re not alone. It is hard job hunting at the moment, lots of rejections and a lot of competition. Trying to detach from the process is very hard.

This is funny because the jobs i least wanted were the ones that i got. I suppose i came out more confident that way. Just go to lots and use each one as practice for the next one. And don't take it personally because they're looking for a right fit, which also means you might not get along with them either

It's hard though especially when you put alot of effort researching the company etc

Assume / tell yourself that every single one is a practice. Do not, ever, imagine yourself in the workplace, what your life would be like if you got the job, nothing!
tell yourself “don’t get emotionally involved in the outcome”
stay objective.
remember …. If you were killed your current employer would replace you right away. Keep that emotional distance.
it’s business.