Job Search Strategy

A successful job search requires a well-planned strategy combining multiple approaches and tools. According to LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking, making it crucial to balance online applications with personal connections. See Networking Strategy for detailed networking approaches.

Search Foundation

Target Definition

Before beginning your search, clearly define your parameters using the Career Goals Framework:

Market Research

Understanding the job market helps focus your efforts. Use Industry Analysis tools to research:

Search Channels

Modern job searching requires a multi-channel approach. The Job Search Funnel helps track progress across:

Online Platforms

Network Activation

Leverage your Professional Network through:

Three discovery channels—published roles, professional conversations and industry events—converge on a check of role fit. Qualified opportunities go into one record containing source, role evidence, status, next action and review date. A return arrow uses learning to adjust the search, without implying conversion rates.
Different channels can feed the same opportunity record and follow-up process. This conceptual system shows organization and feedback, not the share of jobs supplied by any channel. Original diagram based on MIT Career Advising & Professional Development, Resources & Advice and U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Individual Development Planning.

Application Strategy

Application Management

Use software like Teal:

Documentation

Maintain updated versions of your application materials:

Interview Preparation

Comprehensive interview preparation increases success rates. Follow the Interview Success Framework for:

Research Phase

Practice Phase

Resources

All notes