What Does A “Seasoned Executive” Have To Do These Days To Get A Job? Tip 2 of 6

2.  Make A Daily Task Plan

The first step to staying positive during job search mode is to not become complacent.   Always have a plan to look forward to.  Just because you aren’t getting up in the morning to head into the job doesn’t mean you shouldn’t “act as if” you are.  Start each day with a list of what you intend to accomplish, and do your best to stick with it.  If you can project out an entire week, all the better.  That list should be a reflection your life plan goals.  For example:

• 6:00 – 7:00 work outLiving a healthy lifestyle, (especially with the added stress of looking for work), will give you more energy and keep you focused on the longest, darkest days.  Start every day with a fitness routine.
• 7:00 – 9:00 breakfast and job searchGet those fingers working and start searching that world wide web while you’re eating your oatmeal.  While it doesn’t hurt to check the normal job search sites, you may want to invest in researching specific companies you are interested in, and identifying key people to network with.
• 9:00 – 12:00 networking/interviewing timeIf you don’t have a scheduled interview somewhere, at least be where potential jobs are.  Plant yourself in the coffee shop on the main floor of the company you want to work at, or a busy business lobby, or at a business job fair, conference or seminar.  Be aware of what’s going on around you.  Look positive.  Look professional. Have your “Brand” on and your elevator speech ready.   Look for an appropriate opportunity to connect with the people around you. One of them could lead you to an unlisted opening, perhaps with a referral or recommendation.
• 12:00 – 1:30  lunch/more networkingNever dismiss the power of the independent café or coffee shop employee—they typically have a strong clientele, often they know who’s who, and may be the conduit to your best business connection.  Most companies tend to have that one or two spots just around the corner they run to for a quick bite.  Be there, with eyes and ears wide open.
• 1:30 – 2:30 check emails and return callsMake it a point to provide same day responses.  It shows you’re there, and you care.
• 2:30 – 5:30 research and develop job opportunities for tomorrowPlan the next days search in advance. Try to line up an informational interview with a key person you’ve identified in company job searches, to learn more about something specific within their organization. Some of the best jobs are never posted.  Show initiative and interest above a job posting.  Manage job search activity and progress.
• 5:30 – 8:00 dinner/family timePersonal time is key to having healthy balance in life.  Make sure you have a hard cut off to your “business” day and define a period of quality time with friends and family.  Share the most positive highlights of your day.  Be open to feedback, and ideas from others.  Chances are, they will be excited and proud of your diligence, and you will be rewarded with their support.

Take this sample and create your own task plan! You will quickly find that following a daily plan is efficient, and empowering.  Let me know if you’d like some help with creating a strong, solid plan.