Structure and Spontaneity How to Leverage Both in a Job Search

Structure and Spontaneity How to Leverage Both in a Job SearchStructure and Spontaneity How to Leverage Both in a Job SearchAre you someone who recoils at the idea of having things too planned out because youre afraid that youll miss out on opportunities for spontaneity and serendipity? If so, you may be taking these principles too far during your job search, since planning ahead and creating structure can help you land new opportunities. Relying too much on structure when looking for work, though, might cause you to miss out on meeting people or having organic experiences that can be just as effective in leading to your next position.The key to this conundrum is figuring out the right blend of structure and spontaneity in your search. By taking the following steps toward creating balanced structure, job seekers can get close to the best of both worlds.Heres how to leverage both structure and spontaneity in a job searchSelect networking venues in advancebut still leave something to c hance.If youre trying to build your base of professional contacts in a specific industry or meet people who work at a company that youre interested in working for, then its smart to use a structured approach. Attending any old job conference will help you meet people- but not necessarily people at the right level, position, or organization that you need.Choose a handful of networking events or expos that attract attendees in your industry of interest. But once youre there, mix things up a little by letting yourself choose sessions to attend by what draws your interest. You can also stay spontaneous by talking to people you meet along the way rather than scheduling all of your meet-ups prior to the conference.Rely on regular job sites for leadsbut try a new forum once in a while.Depending on the goals of your job search, youll likely find some job sites more helpful than others. If youre targeting employers that offer flexibility, for example, visiting should be on your daily to-do l ist, or you might want to regularly explore LinkedIn or Glassdoor to learn more about specific companies.Once youve identified your tried-and-true sources for job leads, however, you can add power to your search by branching out. Ask friends what job sites are their favorites, for example, and check out a new one once in a while. You never know where that perfect-fit position will come from.Map out a plan for your job search strategybut ditch it when opportunity knocks.Structuring your job search around specific actions can help you stay focused and on track. For example, the first leg of your journey might involve getting your resume, cover letters, and other job search materials into shape. Next, you might set a goal to spend three hours a day researching opportunities zugnglich, and to attend an industry event for networking once a month.With your strategy of choice as your foundation, you can then stay alert for the unexpected. Dont feel married to your basic plan if an interest ing option comes your way through another channel. For example, be willing to cut your daily online search short if someone invites you to coffee- even if they arent in your field, they might turn out to have a job lead through their network.As you can see from these suggestions, theres no right way to go about finding a job. But when you combine a reliable framework with a curious mind thats open to possibilities coming your way off the beaten track, youll give yourself the best chance for preparation to meet opportunity.Know someone looking for a job? Refer a friend to with this link- youll get a month free service and theyll get 30% off