Finding time to look for a new job can be challenging when you already work 40, 50 or 60+ hours per week. Add children to the mix and it can feel like there is never enough time in the day to apply for jobs. As a career coach who specializes in working with senior managers and executives, my job seeker clients often express difficulty finding time for the job search. How do you maintain balance when looking for a job? How do you job search when working full-time? And what should you keep in mind when job hunting while still employed?
Here are three tips to make time for a job search when you work full-time:
1. Decide where to focus your job search efforts.
You have to be extra mindful of how you spend your time when you are balancing full-time employment with a job search. Rather than spending countless hours sending out applications, I advise my clients to spend at least 80% of their job search time networking and building relationships.
Networking is particularly important if you are a senior manager or executive looking for a new job, as more roles are landed by way of networking as you climb the corporate ladder. I advise submitting a maximum of one to two job applications per day, then dedicating the rest of your time and efforts to networking.
If you have preexisting relationships with people at your target company, begin by reaching out to them. If not, use LinkedIn to reach out to five to 10 people in your target role.
2. Set aside dedicated time for your job search.
Once you outline your top job search priorities, you need to set aside time to implement your job search plan. Spending just an hour or two on your job search each week can make a massive difference.
Some of my career coaching clients find it helpful to carve out 20 to 30 minutes per day to dedicate to their job search. This is often in the early morning, during their lunch break or late at night after their children have gone to bed. Other clients find it helpful to block off a weekend morning or afternoon where they can spend a few solid hours on their job search.
Regardless of the job search schedule you choose, the key here is to find a consistent routine that works for you and your life. Additionally, it is important to take time away from your job search. You want to avoid job search burnout.
3. Remember to be realistic with your job search goals.
Finally, try approaching your job search like a marathon rather than a sprint. One of the benefits of looking for a job when you are already employed is that you do not have to rush to the finish line. Even if you are in a toxic work environment, be mindful when determining your job search goals. I advise setting a few key metrics you can control, such as the number of applications you submit and the number of people you network with.
You can set yourself up for a successful job search by creating a dedicated time for your job search, consistently applying to jobs and harnessing the power of networking. Additionally, remember to be patient with yourself as you balance everything on your plate. You’ve got this!
(Source: www.forbes.com)