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7 Ways to Use Reading in Your Job Search

Reading can benefit your job search in multiple ways. Only developing leaders can lead people and demonstrate high mental abilities. Even if you don't aspire to take on a leadership role, you should develop both professionally and personally. Let's analyze together how reading can speed up career development and contribute to job search.

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#1 Augment Your Verbosity

Reading not only expands your vocabulary but also aids in reducing stress, enhancing analytical thinking, and memory recall, and even boosting intelligence. When you don't engage your brain with daily work tasks, it becomes crucial to pick up a book and keep your mental faculties sharp.

#2 Brag About It

In a world where people on Twitter share their breakfast choices, it's perfectly acceptable to proudly discuss the books you're currently reading. Feel free to mention the titles online or during your next interview. Employers appreciate well-rounded candidates who actively seek knowledge. Apply the insights gained from your reading to current industry events and share your thoughts in relevant forums.

When you're interviewing, you can show off your knowledge and personality. Of course, this requires knowledge not only of classic works but also of lesser-known fictional stories. If you want to surprise your employer, try going to this website Fiction Me, and picking up a collection of underrated works of art. This novel app has both legendary books and masterpieces from lesser-known authors waiting to be discovered by the general public.

#3 Reduces Stress

To effectively manage stress in your professional life, it is crucial to avoid becoming a pressure cooker ready to explode on your boss, peers, or employees. An effective solution? Turn to books.
Recent research has discovered that dedicating just six minutes of daily reading can reduce your stress level by over two-thirds. In fact, reading surpasses listening to music, having a cup of tea, or going for a walk as a stress-reducing activity.

So, the next time you experience stress, instead of reaching for sweets, a glass of wine, or screaming into a pillow, opt for a book instead. Its unique ability to alleviate stress is unmatched.

#4 Improves Your Decision-Making Skills

Each day, adults typically make around 35,000 decisions. Of course, we all strive to make good choices. Avoiding impulsive or ill-informed judgments is crucial, as I'm sure you don't need me to tell you. But did you know that reading can be a valuable tool in helping you navigate this challenge?

According to a group of scholars from the University of Toronto, engaging with fictional literature can enhance your overall information-processing abilities, including creativity. Fiction readers, in particular, tend to have a reduced need for "cognitive closure", or put simply, they are more comfortable with ambiguity.

In other words, reading fiction can improve your decision-making skills by reducing the tendency to make hasty—and possibly irrational—judgments, making you more open to ambiguous situations.

#5 Makes You a Better Leader

People often stereotype readers as individuals who actively avoid face-to-face interaction in order to immerse themselves in books. However, this perception is far from accurate. A study revealed that even as little as 30 minutes of reading per week can enhance one's sense of empathy, leading to stronger connections with others. The skill of relating to people and putting oneself in their shoes is a common trait shared by readers and exceptional leaders alike.

#6 Makes You Smarter

Exercising your brain is crucial for maintaining its health, just like working out a muscle. While Sudoku and crossword puzzles are popular choices, reading offers a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp.

Consider this: If you don't lift weights, your strength won't increase; instead, your muscles will weaken over time. By incorporating weight training into your routine, you can enhance your strength.

The same principle applies to your brain. Regularly exercising your brain improves its performance.

#7 Network

We are familiar with the concept of book clubs. However, don't jump to the conclusion that they are limited to little old ladies sipping tea and enjoying romance novels. Book clubs come in various forms, catering to different individuals and literary genres. They offer job seekers an alternative networking opportunity outside of traditional professional settings.

Conclusion

Reading develops your creative skills, deepens your personality, and makes you a more attractive candidate for jobs in all fields. You can also find like-minded people and get the best jobs in their field. Reading develops in you the mindset of a leader, the ability to empathize, look at a situation more deeply and make more informed decisions. Are there enough arguments for you to start reading, regardless of whether you are in a passive or active job search?

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