Plan & Navigate a Job Search

• Define your non-negotiable. Use the Start with You guide to list top values, motivators, and constraints impacting your search. Use this to ground you when encountering distractions.  
• Build a system. Integrate your search into your life by scheduling daily or weekly sessions focused on specific search tasks like updating your target list and establishing relationships. Here are some options to consider; experiment with one or two at a time to see what feels best with the way you naturally operate. Anticipate your search approach differing from that of your friends.
  

  Potential Approach	Why This Helps
  Time block	Consistency is key. Use calendar blocking habits to focus your time and attention. This approach helps order your day and reduce decision fatigue.
  Anchor to existing habits	Pair search activities with daily routines (e.g., review postings with morning coffee, write follow-ups after class). (Atomic Habits, 2025)
  Batch your work	Group similar tasks—like resume customization or employer research—into dedicated blocks to reduce task-switching fatigue.
  Use theme days	Assign specific days to key actions (e.g., “Build Relationships Tuesdays,” “Interview Prep Thursdays”) to create rhythm and reduce decision fatigue.
  Use a visual timer	Try tools like Pomodoro or Time Timer to work in short, focused intervals (e.g., 25 minutes on, 5 minutes off). This builds momentum and reduces task fatigue.

• Prioritize Tasks by Impact: Experiment with these tools (& others) to focus on what moves your search forward. Choose strategies that work best for the way you naturally operate in the world.
  • Eisenhower Matrix: Urgent vs. important (see framework).
  • 1-3-5 Rule: Identify 1 big, 3 medium, and 5 small tasks to complete each day or week.
  • Eat the Frog: Address the one big thing you’re most likely to procrastinate about.
  • Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule): Focus on the 20% of tasks (e.g., networking, tailored applications) that yield 80% of your results. (learn more here)
•  Track Applications and Follow-Ups: Use a spreadsheet (example from The Muse) or tool like Trello, Notion, or Airtable to track where you’ve applied, deadlines, and next steps.
  • Update status regularly: Mark each opportunity with the latest activity (e.g., submitted, interviewed, offer, declined) to stay on top of timelines.
  • Add follow-up reminders: Set calendar alerts or task reminders to follow up with contacts or employers 7–10 days after submissions or interviews.
  • Color-code your tracker: Visually organize by status (e.g., green = applied, yellow = waiting, red = follow-up needed) for easier cognitive navigation.
  • Automate where possible: Use tools like Notion’s database reminders or Trello’s due dates to reduce memory load.
• Take Ownership of Your Process: Treat your search as your project. Set your own milestones, reflect on progress weekly, and adjust your approach based on what’s working. Keep the focus on your growth, learning, and small wins—not just outcomes like interviews and offers.

• Go Deeper: Revisit your BASK themes to ensure you align with roles you’re targeting.
• Reassess Weekly: Reserve 10 minutes each Friday to reflect: What worked? Note both small and big wins (Harvard Business Review, 2011). What needs adjusting?
• Own Your Process: You’re the CEO of this process. Waiting on external validation or direction can slow momentum. Take initiative and ask for help when needed.
• Combat FOMO: Be prepared for FOMO (fear of missing out). It’s normal and you can take steps (Psychology Compass, 2021) to push against instincts to chase every opportunity or adopt the career goals of your peers. If it’s not aligned to you, it’s not a fit—for now.

📁 Search Tracker (example from The Muse)

📊Eisenhower Prioritization Matrix (see framework)