[ad_1]
As with most things in life, the more organized you are, the more productive you will be. This is especially true of the job search. We always hear that looking for a job can be a full time job. But what if you are not using your time effectively? Or what if you don’t have time to use because you work full time?
Either way, it is quality as much as quantity that dictates your success. Here are some strategies that will lead to a smarter and more efficient job search.
Know your destination (and have a road map to get there)
Before you do anything, clearly define your goals, determine if they are realistic and figure out the steps needed to reach them. Without clear goals, you will waste time and energy finding your way around.
Sometimes it helps to craft a mission statement that you can post in a visible location. This mission statement is not only about your career goals, but also about how you want to live your life. It should crystallize your core values and beliefs. Here are some inspiring examples of personal mission statements.
Get organized
Keep things as simple as possible, both online and offline. Keep a folder on your computer desktop with everything you need to search for a job, including a resume, cover letters, work samples, and references. Make sure your online presence, including your Page and LinkedIn portfolio if you have one, is up to date. This way you are ready to respond to professional requests in no time. A tidy workspace reflects an uncluttered mind.
You have a schedule
Whether you are fully employed or completely unemployed, it is useful to schedule job search tasks. This can include making calls, sending emails, checking job listings, or conducting interviews. If you’re employed, you’ll obviously need to find extra time during lunch, on weekends, or before or after work. In addition to your schedule, prioritize your long- and short-term goals with daily to-do lists.
discriminatory application
One of the biggest times job seekers spend is randomly sending out comprehensive resumes hoping someone will eventually bite them. Not only is this a completely inefficient way to search for a job, but it takes time away from the most effective ways to find a job: networking and personalizing your search. These days, the majority of jobs are found through personal references. So the more you get the word the more with people you knowThe better your chances.
Also, make sure that you are applying for jobs that you are already qualified for. And be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to answer the needs of each position.
Start communicating
It might seem that unless you’re seriously sending inquiries, making calls, or checking listings, you’re just being lazy. But ideally, you should spend only a small portion of your time in your office, and most of your time meeting people and making connections. This is the biggest factor affecting your chances of getting a job.
So do your best when it comes to searching and applying for jobs, but also get more. Attend industry events, parties, networking events, or wherever you will be able to make professional connections. Schedule drinks or lunches with colleagues. Set up informational interviews and be active on social media. But most importantly, be yourself and treat everyone as a friend, not a pawn.
The information in our press releases, blogs, articles, testimonials, videos and presentations should be considered accurate only as of its date. We disclaim any obligation to complete or update information in this type of content, and any links or references therein to Third Party Articles or Third Party Content do not constitute our endorsement of such third party.