Stressed-out worker need new mindset

It’s important to stay positive while seeking new job.

Q: After starting my new job, I realized that I’d made a serious mistake. My manager argues about everything and only communicates through email, even though she sits three feet from my desk. Instead of just turning around and speaking, “Debra” will actually email me that we need to talk.

Debra lies to management about project delays, blaming employees for her mistakes. She has thrown me under the bus so many times that I’m surprised I’m still standing. Her boss has completely checked out and spends most of his time on his private consulting business. He specifically told us not to bother him with our problems.

Although I’m looking for another job, I haven’t found one yet. I can’t bring my best self to the

interviews because this place just keeps me too exhausted and worried. So what do I do now?

A: Your description makes this sound like an impossible dilemma. Your manager is incompetent, her boss doesn’t give a care and you’re too distraught to be an effective applicant. If the stress from this job prevents you from finding a new one, you will obviously be stuck forever.

Therefore, the initial step toward a solution is to change your view of this situation. By getting appointments with potential employers, you have actually succeeded with the first half of the job search process. Now you just need to learn how to ace the interviews.

Begin “bringing your best self ” by studying effective

interview techniques. Present a professional image, show enthusiasm for the position, be ready to answer common questions. And never complain to an interviewer about your employer.

Marie G. McIntyre is author of“Secrets to Winning atOffice Politics.”