Any job hunting takes a lot of time and effort, and it doesn’t matter what job you are looking for. To reduce the time spent on searching, you need a clear plan of action.
There are different ways to start your job hunt. You can do this with the help of recruitment agencies, job search boards and networking. The last one has proven most effective, so take this into consideration while creating a plan.
Job hunting with 4 easy steps
Step 1. Prepare all the materials.
Before starting your search, you should prepare all the materials and tools you will need to impress employers. You should have an updated resume, LinkedIn profile and an elevator pitch. The latter will help you to present yourself briefly and indicate what distinguishes you from other candidates.
Step 2. Define the time for your job hunting.
Everything depends on whether you are employed or unemployed. In the first case, you can spend 10-20 hours per week on your search, in the second case – 30-40 hours. You should define the time period each day that you will devote to job hunting.
Step 3. Determine your time for every specific task.
If you can devote 30 hours per week to a job search, you should divide this time correctly. For instance, X hours a day for networking and creating new contacts, Y hours for making follow-up on submissions and other communications, etc. Do not forget that you should try all three ways of job hunting- recruitment agencies, job boards and networking.
As networking is the most efficient means in a job search process, try to devote more time to it. Just compare, the effectiveness rate of job boards is only 3-6%, so it is not necessary to spend much time on this. Some employers use the Applicant Tracking Systems and humans check only 20 resumes from the job boards out of 100. If you prefer using job boards, it is better to find boards in your professional niche.
Step 4. Set goals and keep records of your work.
If you have some definite goals, this will help you to direct your efforts. For example, if your goal is 20 networking contacts within a week, you can modify your time depending on the results. The process of job hunting should be well planned, and if you keep records on the work done, this will help you to make this plan more accurately. Record the place where you applied, the time of your application, the results (if any), your next steps, etc. This will save you time by avoiding repeat applications or contacts, and give you the necessary information in case the employer contacts you.
Job hunting is a long and time consuming process. Nevertheless, if you organize your time well and make a good plan, it will help you achieve the best results in the quickest possible way.