Searching for a new job can be exhausting and demoralizing especially if you’re not getting results. Good time management is important to help you stay positive and productive. Using your time wisely will help you to avoid frustration and balance other responsibilities along the way.
The average length of time to find a new job will vary significantly depending on a number of factors; the industry, your level of experience, skills and where you live all play a part. Indeed reports it can take anywhere from two to six months to land a new position.
First up, it’s time to get organized! Instead of blasting out your resume to every job you can find, adopting a measured approach can yield much better results. Arche shares tips to help you stay organized and productive.
Use a job search planner
We can’t emphasize this enough. Using a planner will help you set goals, track your progress and keep track of the myriad number of thank you notes to send. Download our free job search planner here.
Set goals
Set daily or weekly goals for yourself. Set a goal for the number of positions to apply to, connections to reach out to or networking events to attend (virtual or in person). Our SMART goal planner works great for this too – download here.
Establish a regular schedule
Establish a regular schedule for your search e.g. first thing in the morning or a time when you feel productive. This will help avoid the temptation of checking your email all day, which can be time-consuming and counter-productive.
Target your search – make two job lists
Don’t spend time applying to jobs you don’t really want or are not qualified for.
Make two lists - a list of relevant positions or companies to target based on your experience and technical skills and a second list of positions that makes use of your transferable skills such as organization, research, communication, teamwork, problem-solving or adaptability. Applying to both types of positions gives you a wide range of options.
Search for keywords in job postings and use applicable keywords in your resume, cover letter and to help you prepare for phone screens and virtual or in-person interviews.
Set up job alerts
Setting up a job alert can be a huge time saver. Most major job sites can send you job alerts for specific positions or companies you are interested in.
Eliminate distractions
Treat your job search like a job. Turn off notifications on your phone or computer and spend the time focusing on the task at hand.
Set boundaries
With extra time on your hands you may find yourself getting requests to run errands or lend a helping hand. While helping a friend in need is always a good thing, it’s important to set boundaries. Your job is to find a job – let friends and family know when you’re available to help out and stick to it.
Take a break – enjoy the downtime
Job searches can be mentally and physically draining. Prioritize your wellness by taking regular stretch breaks during the day, going for a walk, listening to a podcast or meditating.
You’ll be back at work soon enough so enjoy the downtime while you can! Avoid working on the weekend and commit to taking a few days off on occasion (especially during the holidays or over the summer).
This article is part of our Job Search series; job search and career advice to help you land your dream job.
Arche helps people architect, navigate and advance their career path with expert advice and tools to support your job search, interview preparation, professional branding, salary negotiations, and career advancement.
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