Talking with a client earlier this week regarding how she is procrastinating with her job search. She was telling me how hard it is to get started and to remain focused. What a great topic for a blog post I thought … so here are some tips to help you overcome procrastination and start your job search campaign:
Procrastination tips
Set specific goals to stop procrastinating: Write down specific goals for your job search, such as the number of applications you want to submit per day or week, and the time frame for completing each task.
Break it down: Breaking the job search process down into smaller, manageable tasks can help make it feel less overwhelming. For example, start by updating your CV/resume and cover letter, then move on to researching companies and job openings.
Prioritize your time: Create a schedule that allows you to balance your job search with your other responsibilities. Set aside time each day or week to work on your job search.
Get organized: Create a job search spreadsheet to keep track of the jobs you have applied to, the companies you have researched, and any networking contacts you have made.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a career coach for support and accountability. Sharing your job search goals with others can help keep you motivated and on track.
Start small: If you’re struggling to get started, try setting a small goal for yourself, such as researching one company or writing a rough draft of your cover letter. Once you’ve accomplished this, it can help build momentum to tackle bigger tasks.
With procrastinating it can also help to:
Identify and address your barriers to procrastination: Be honest with yourself about why you’re procrastinating. Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure of your skills, or afraid of rejection? Once you identify the root cause, you can take steps to address it, such as seeking out resources to improve your skills or practicing positive self-talk to build confidence.
Create a positive environment: Set up a workspace that inspires productivity, whether it’s a clutter-free desk or a calming background noise playlist. Minimize distractions by turning off notifications on your phone or using an app like StayFocusd to limit your time on social media.
Celebrate small wins: Each step you take towards your job search is progress. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, to help build positive momentum and motivation.
Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help prevent burnout and increase productivity. Set a timer for 25-30 minutes of focused work, then take a 5-10-minute break to recharge.
Stay motivated: Remind yourself why you’re looking for a new job and what your long-term goals are. Visualize yourself in your dream job and the benefits it will bring to your life.
Remember, finding a job can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but the more you put into it, the more likely you are to find success. Overcoming procrastination takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. I’m a great accountability coach! With persistence and determination, you can overcome procrastination and achieve your job search goals.
Image by Viveka Rosin from Pixabay
