A Job Search Plan

A lot of people jump right into a job search, eager to get back to work. They comb job listings and send out resumes.  But without a strategic plan, their approach is scattershot and unlikely to succeed. Gauging progress based on how many resumes you send out creates a false sense of productivity. Unfocused efforts eventually create frustration and can actually make the job search take longer.

Here are some ways to tell if your job search is lacking a good strategy:

•    Unclear objective- “I’ll take anything”
•    No daily or weekly goals – “What should I do today?”
•    Success measured by number of jobs applied for or resumes sent out
•    Running out of job search activities – “What do I do now?”
•    Feeling frustrated or discouraged – “I’ve tried everything and nothing worked. It’s just impossible to find a job.”
•    Frantic activity such as racing to send out a resume or meet a new contact, then not hearing back afterward.
•    Lack of clarity and consistency in using LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter as job search tools
•    Little meaningful progress – “I’m spinning my wheels”

You can overcome all of these issues with a thoughtful strategy that includes a clear objective, defined goals and a multi-faceted approach to achieving success.  Your strategy should include:

•    A clear target, based on what you want to do, are qualified to do and what there is demand for in the marketplace
•    Thoughtful marketing materials (including resume and cover letter), customized for each use
•    Multiple job lead channels, with an emphasis on networking which is crucial in today’s market
•    Conscious decisions about time spent on various job search activities
•    Activities which keep skills sharp and your resume fresh
•    Continually growing understanding of best practices for job search
•    A system of managing contacts, leads, resume versions and all the other information to stay organized
•    A step by step plan for executing your strategy
•    Measurable goals to assure success
•    A consistent method to measure progress and prioritize activities

A job search strategy will bring immediate and long term benefits. Frustration and confusion will diminish. You’ll stop wondering what to do next.  Instead you’ll face each day with a sense of purpose, measure your progress by the right standards and continually move in a positive direction.