Have you heard the phrase, “finding a new job is a full-time job!”?

It is true that finding a new job can take a tremendous effort and soak up a lot of time, much like a full-time job. This is especially true if you don’t set specific, measurable, and actionable goals for yourself throughout your search.

Over time, it is easy to become overwhelmed and discouraged. But don’t worry – we’re here to help! The steps below should help you organize your job search, stay motivated and, best of all, accomplish your goals faster.

Step 1: Determine Your Job Search Approach

Decide how you are going to approach your job search and establish measurable goals. For example:

• What methods will you be using?
• If you are using a job search engine, which one(s)?
• How many times a week are you going to check the search engine?
• What search terms will you use?
• Is there a specific day and time that you will be checking?
• How many jobs will you apply for each week?

If your job search includes networking, then consider the following:

•  What methods you will use to reach out to people?
•  How many contacts will you reach out to each week?
•  How many networking coffees/phone calls/lunches will you schedule?
•  Is that number realistic with your additional responsibilities?

Make sure your goals can be achieved in the time frame you have set for yourself given the other commitments in your life. If they are not realistic you are bound for failure. You need to determine what you can realistically do. Start conservatively and stick to it.

Step 2: Track Your Job Search Progress

Write your goals down in a place where you can track the actions you are taking toward those goals. See my blog Manage your Career Ideas to Calm your Mind for a download of my Action Plan template. This template is a great resource to track your actions.

If you track all of your work, it will be easy to look back and feel a sense of accomplishment that you can draw motivation from.

Step 3: Review Your Job Search Actions and Adjust