The average job search is taking upwards of 8-10 months for those seeking salaries of 100K+. These numbers are anywhere from 2 – 3 times longer than just a few years ago. All too often, a day feels like a week and a week can feel like a month – particularly for those who haven’t had to really look for a job in years. Approaching your job search differently these days not only includes how you find jobs, but how you manage what can be a long search. Here are some tips to help you pace yourself and get better results in the process:
- Work in Blocks: There are a lot of moving parts to the job search: developing leads, contacting prospective employers, following up, networking…and, of course, interviewing! They all require a different focus and mindset. Instead of constantly reacting to events, plan to work your day in blocks. Create a short list of critical events that are cause for interruption (call from a potential employer, networking call, etc.). Otherwise, focus on the tasks at hand. Lump responding to emails into a block too…this is the biggest culprit of distractions out there!
- Change of Scenery: No need to be chained to your desk for all these activities. Can you do your research in a coffee shop? Do you find you are more creative in writing cover letters sitting outside (enjoy this summer weather while you can)? A change of scenery can be great for your outlook and will help keep you out of a rut in your job search! Give it a try.
- Take Time to Recharge: As you shift between your blocks of work, use a physical event to do so. A short walk around the block, the act of changing locations (like we just talked about), or even something as simple as getting a glass of water. This event (small or large) signals your brain to shift activities and focus. Something that seems insignificant and takes only a few minutes can end up saving you time and making you more productive.
It’s common to be feeling guilt during your job search – did I do enough today? Should I spend a few more hours digging deeper? But, just like training for a marathon (or any athletic event for that matter), you can over-train. This leaves you tired, unprepared and ineffective for your race: the interview. By using these tips and figuring out what works best for you individually, you can be better prepared to shine and excel when you get the call for your big event!
