2. the ‘take 10 theory’
The ‘take 10 theory’ is a promise to spend 10 minutes on a task that you have been putting aside. This can help you focus on the job search task at hand and prevent procrastination. After the 10 minutes are over, reassess your headspace and decide on what you want to do for the next 10 minutes.
More often than not, you might be so fixated on that task that you wouldn’t want to lose the momentum. Using this theory to trick your mind into believing that you will stop after 10 minutes will allow you to overcome many hurdles in your job application process. Breaking up your entire day of job searching into 10 minutes can also help make the process much easier to manage.
3. stay focus on relevant jobs
Apply to relevant jobs only. Quantity does not often equate to productiveness when it comes to job applications. You would be wasting your time if you are mass sending a template resume for roles that you were unqualified for, or with employers that you don’t actually want to work for.
Make it a habit to use the advanced search options to filter the relevant job listings and familiarise yourself with the advantages and benefits of different job portals and working with recruitment agencies. You should also take extra time to research about the company, the job’s requirements and organisational culture, and personalise your job application. A CV that is tailored to the job shows your potential employer that you have put in effort in your job search, which will increase your chances of securing a job interview.
4. set job search goals
During your job hunting, you may experience several factors that are outside of your control. It is important to exert control over what you can actually influence, such as setting realistic goals for yourself. It can be as simple as shortlisting 10 job openings a day, researching and tailoring your CV for three job applications a day or to secure at least 3 interviews in a month.
If you are up for a challenge or feel pressured to find a job quickly, you can always create stretch goals for yourself.
job search advice for employed job seekers
The truth is that companies are still hiring during this pandemic, albeit at a slower pace. Highly skilled talent who are digitally-adept or are experienced enough to navigate challenging climates are highly sought-after. It should not come as a surprise that some employees who are in a stable job are still being headhunted for their experience, knowledge and skills.
As an employee, you need to be mindful of your responsibilities and commitments to your job, as well as observe applying for a job etiquette. If you use company time to explore your personal career interests out of pure curiosity, you may end up hurting the professional relationship with your current employer. You’ll also be wasting the hiring manager’s resource and time if you never had the intention to switch employers.
However, if you are really keen to explore other opportunities, consider waking up 20 minutes earlier or use your commuting time to browse jobs, or reply to your personal e-mails or LinkedIn messages. Don’t forget that you can make full use of your lunch hour as well.