Your Job Search Plan of Action

Job searching can be overwhelming. One method that can really help overcome the stress and anxiety is breaking the process down into smaller actions or baby steps.

Step 1 - Get organized.

Before applying to any position, take a week and get your application packet pulled together.

This should include:

• A LinkedIn profile that is polished and on point.
• A cover letter template.
• Your portfolio of work.
• 2 Versions of your resume: 1 for humans and 1 for applicant tracking systems.

Once these things are collected and polished, you are ready to move to the next step.

Step 2 - Make a written plan.

"A goal without a plan is just a wish." - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Science has shown that those who write out their plans are 42% more likely to follow through.

When making your plan:

• Identify what type of company you want to work for.
• Establish how much time you are able to spend on job search activities per week.
• Schedule specific blocks of time when you will focus on the job search.
• Determine how many quality applications you will submit per week.
• Revisit your plan each week and adjust as necessary for success.

Step 3 - Network.

• Go to industry events such as meet-ups or conferences and start talking with people. Get to know them not as a possible job lead, but as a human interested in the same industry. It’s amazing what you can learn from people at these events.
• Volunteer your skills.
• Reach out to people on LinkedIn.
• Be open and friendly everywhere you go. You never know who is next to you at the store or who just cut you off in the parking lot.

Step 4 - Keep going!

Don’t stop applying until you have a written offer in hand. Grit is key!

In review: get organized, make a written plan, network, keep your skills up to date, and keep going until you have an offer in hand. Persevere!