Long gone are the days when you used to find suitable jobs. The process of job search has evolved and now one, not just hunts for a suitable job but also has to prepare for call interviews. It is indeed true that some things are beyond your control when you’re searching for a job.
You wait for companies to call you back, and you compete with other candidates who may have stronger qualifications. In the current scenario, successful job seekers are employing various job search strategies to stand out from the crowd and find an appropriate job for themselves.
However, you can take charge of making your job hunt more efficient. That way you’ll make the process faster and more rewarding, regardless of the state of the economy.
What’s the secret to an efficient job search?
On average, 80 percent of job vacancies are never advertised. So, how do one search for jobs without burning himself out?
The secret is getting organized and taking care of yourself. Use this checklist to work smarter rather than harder while you’re preparing for your next position.
Tips for Organizing Your Job Search
Careful planning and helpful routines reduce stress and enable you to accomplish more. You’ll maximize the return on your efforts. Try these top tips:
- Clarify your goals. Charting your career path will help you to understand your values and make sounder decisions. You’ll be able to focus your efforts on your top priorities.
- Leverage your strengths. Customize your job hunt based on your skills and resources. Maybe you have a powerful alumni network. Maybe you communicate more effectively in writing or on the phone.
- Limit your research. You need to know about the companies where you’re applying but ensure that you’re allocating enough time for the rest of your to-do list. You can gather more information if you’re invited to interview.
- Polish your writing. Make your applications stand out. Edit your cover letters to match the requirements of each position. Use keywords. Describe your past achievements and what you can offer.
- Take advantage of technology. Automate tasks to save time. Email alerts will notify you of new openings, so you can be among the first to apply. Use project management apps to track and evaluate your progress.
- Batch similar tasks. Block out time for checking job boards or keeping in touch with network contacts. Activities that require the same thought process usually take less time because your brain doesn’t have to switch gears.
- Avoid distractions. Figure out where you may be wasting time. Let your family and friends know the hours when you want to be undisturbed. Set limits on video streaming and internet browsing. Don’t use your need to organize as a tool to procrastinate your job search.
- Clear away clutter. If your workspace is piled with books, papers, and bills, it will be difficult to have a clear mind. Spend a few hours ruthlessly throwing away things you don’t need and finding logical places to store the things you do. There is a link between productivity and clutter.
In fact, the Wall Street Journal found that the average U.S. executive wastes six weeks each year retrieving misplaced information from his or her disorganized desk and files. For an executive earning $75,000 a year, that translates to a loss of $9,221, or a loss of 12.3 percent of total earnings.
- Ask for help. Let your family, friends, and colleagues know how they can assist you. Talk with recruiters and consider hiring professional services like resume writing if your own efforts have stalled.
(READ: 13 Essential Interview Tips That Can Land You The Job)
Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During Your Job Search
It’s difficult to be productive when you’re anxious and depressed. Investing in yourself will keep your energy levels up and help you to make a more positive impression when you’re interviewing.
These strategies will help:
- Sleep well. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day even if you’re unemployed. If anxious thoughts make you toss and turn, get out of bed and do something boring until you feel drowsy.
- Eat healthy. Fuel up with nutritious meals and snacks. If you’re watching your grocery spending, stock up on beans, lentils, and oats. Frozen produce often costs less than fresh and can be just as healthy.
- Exercise regularly. Staying active will give you more energy, enhance your mood, and help you sleep at night. Go for a run or jump rope. Do stretches and bodyweight exercises at home.
- Manage stress. Take time to relax and have fun. Call a friend or a community hotline if you’re struggling with difficult emotions.
A long job hunt can take its toll on your self-esteem and bank account. Being efficient will help you to increase your success rate and move ahead in your career.