Organizing your job search
18 December 2013
Read by 2271 persons
Here are some organizational rules to save time and avoid mistakes.
Plan your search. You alone can decide the pace of your search. But with less than 2 steps per day, it may be very long. Your schedule will be your main ally and the passing time your enemy.
Start by organizing your weeks. Create a 15-day rolling schedule, including trade shows and events, and appointments that concern you. Keep time slots for writing your cover letters, calling people you've met, and following up with companies. Don't give up your hobbies and family life.
Build your network file. You can't imagine how many people in your direct or indirect circle can give you information, advice, or contacts useful to your search. Make a list and keep this file updated as it grows. You will thus memorize each person's identity, their company, their position, the origin of the contact and will be able to make the best use of this precious network.
Keep track of all your actions. It's up to you to build effective tracking tools: they will allow you to keep track of each action and not let any lead slip away. Keep track of the offers you respond to. Note the date of your submissions. You will know when it is appropriate to follow up with a recruiter after sending an application, or when to contact a particular person again. As for interviews, note the questions asked, the aspects on which the recruiter insisted, the strengths and weaknesses identified. This "follow-up sheet" will be invaluable for preparing the next interview.
Apec.fr
Published March 10, 2013.
Posted December 18, 2013.
Plan your search. You alone can decide the pace of your search. But with less than 2 steps per day, it may be very long. Your schedule will be your main ally and the passing time your enemy.
Start by organizing your weeks. Create a 15-day rolling schedule, including trade shows and events, and appointments that concern you. Keep time slots for writing your cover letters, calling people you've met, and following up with companies. Don't give up your hobbies and family life.
Build your network file. You can't imagine how many people in your direct or indirect circle can give you information, advice, or contacts useful to your search. Make a list and keep this file updated as it grows. You will thus memorize each person's identity, their company, their position, the origin of the contact and will be able to make the best use of this precious network.
Keep track of all your actions. It's up to you to build effective tracking tools: they will allow you to keep track of each action and not let any lead slip away. Keep track of the offers you respond to. Note the date of your submissions. You will know when it is appropriate to follow up with a recruiter after sending an application, or when to contact a particular person again. As for interviews, note the questions asked, the aspects on which the recruiter insisted, the strengths and weaknesses identified. This "follow-up sheet" will be invaluable for preparing the next interview.
Apec.fr
Published March 10, 2013.
Posted December 18, 2013.
