Blog Post: You MUST Have a Daily Regimen, Such as...

Every day you need to have a routine of what you do for your job search. If you're currently unemployed, your full time job is to find another full time job. If you're currently employed, then finding another position has become your part time job. My suggestion on some sample daily items for someone who is unemployed:

1. Check the online job boards. 10am is a good time to start this. Have the list of boards that you check (of course, Jobing will be numero uno). Also hit the job listings of your professional associations. This may take some time because as you see positions that interest you, you'll need to adapt your resume for the posting and reach out to any contacts you have at that company.
2. Check the events for your professional associations and Chambers. You must go to these. Networking will be your key to getting a job quickly. Go to whichever associations you think may be somewhat relevant to your profession. Hit the Chambers as well. Attend these events, have plenty of resumes in your padfolio, and have business cards to hand out (that's the only seamless way to exchange contact information at a networking meeting).
3. Hit whichever job-hunting meeting you have planned for the day. Every day should have a meeting planned into it. Whether it is with a professional association, a chamber, or some other group that will build your network, every day you must expand your network. This is a key item!
4. Have lunch with someone in your network. Never eat alone is a great rule for ensuring you remain connected to your network. Lunches can add up, so choose your lunch mates wisely! Typically, your lunch mate will want to pay and you should let them. Now is a time in your life to accept little gestures of help from friends, and now is the time in their lives to offer those little gestures.
5. Spend time with a non-profit. You should already have your time with your chosen non-profit set-up for the week. 10 hours a week is perfect for ensuring you keep your relationship active. Spread those 10 hours out however they need it. Choose the department that you volunteer for wisely (don't just answer phones--if you want a marketing job, volunteer in their marketing department), and choose the non-profit wisely. If the group isn't reputable, you're wasting your time.

Lastly, ensure you are getting help. Personally handing out your resume to your new, expanding network and interviewing for a few positions will do you no good if there are significant issues with your resume or your interviewing skills. You can get help with your job search for under $150--total package. No need to spend bundles of money. Instead, thoroughly use (and even abuse) the person you hire and make sure you actively listen to their advice.

Good luck in your search!