5 Steps to Making Your Executive Job Search More Efficient
At the executive level, starting the job search process can feel overwhelming. Between contacting executive recruiters, reviewing job descriptions, drafting your resume, and preparing for interviews, you’re bound to end up with an endless to-do list with little time to complete all the required tasks.
We find that most productivity tips marketed today are only semi-helpful. However, the Pomodoro technique is a productivity and time management strategy that will help you efficiently complete the most important items on your to-do list and feel more balanced.
The Pomodoro technique will help you overcome distractions, plan your workload, and complete the tasks on your to-do list much faster. In this post, we’ll show you how to leverage the method to manage your job search.
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro work method is a popular time management strategy that was developed back in the 1980s by Francesco Cirillo. It involves breaking down your work into 25-minute long sessions called Pomodoros and taking short breaks in between.
The strategy helps you stay focused and boosts your productivity by encouraging you to break down huge tasks and work in short sessions.
You can use a reputable daily planner app to effectively manage your time, prioritize tasks, set reminders, and increase productivity. By integrating your Pomodoros with reputable daily planner apps, you’ll easily boost your productivity and performance.
How can I use the Pomodoro technique to manage my job search?
One of the advantages of using the Pomodoro technique is that it’s easy to use and requires no formal training. You can always customize the steps that we discuss below to suit your needs.
1. Write down everything you need to accomplish
To make the most of your sessions, start by creating a to-do list and writing down the tasks that you want to complete, which could include reviewing several job descriptions, writing your resume, or researching potential employers.
Don’t worry about your list becoming too long, as you will later break down your tasks into chunks. As you add your tasks to the to-do app you’re using, think about how much time you’ll need to complete each one. By going through this process, you’ll discover which tasks will take a full 25-minute Pomodoro and which ones can be combined into a single session.
Your planning doesn’t have to be 100% accurate. However, this exercise will help you avoid having gaps in your session or exceeding the 25-minute target.
2. Set your timer for 25 minutes
To fully enjoy the Pomodoro experience and complete your tasks on time, we strongly recommend using a real timer: either a physical or virtual timer will work well.
There are many apps to choose from when selecting a timer for your Pomodoro sessions, but make sure that your timer isn’t too complicated or cumbersome to use, resulting in distractions. A simple option will increase your chances of success.
3. Work on your tasks
After setting the timer, start working on your tasks for 25 minutes without any distractions or interruptions.
While you’ll have to consistently practice mastering the art of fighting distractions, you’ll likely find that using the Pomodoro method is a great tool to keep you on task.
If you complete your tasks before the timer goes off, use the remaining time you have to review your work and make any necessary tweaks. Utilize the session as best as you can to avoid taking breaks early. Alternatively, you can also get started with the next task on your list!
4. Take a short break
When the timer goes off, it’s time to enjoy a 5-minute break.
Use this time to grab a snack, drink a glass of water, or use the restroom. Consider taking a break from your screen by stretching or walking around to help you stay focused and motivated during your next session.
5. Repeat these steps
After four or five sessions of focused work, take a longer 15-20 minute break before repeating the process.
During this longer break, consider having lunch, spending a few minutes outdoors, or catching up with your friends. Always use your breaks wisely to make it easier to jump back into your job search during your next Pomodoro.
In Summary
Even at the executive level, many individuals have a hard time getting started and remaining focused on the task at hand.
By using the strategies that the Pomodoro method provides and breaking down your job search into smaller, manageable tasks, the process will become much less daunting.
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About the AuthorMatt Glodz
Matt Glodz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Resume Pilots and a Certified Professional Resume Writer.
After studying business communication at Cornell University, Matt worked within Fortune 500 companies, where he noted that qualified candidates were frequently denied interview opportunities due to poorly written documents.
At Resume Pilots, Matt combines his business and writing background - which includes prior work for a Chicago Tribune publication - to craft resumes that give his clients the best chance of landing interviews. He works with clients ranging from CEOs to recent graduates and has been writing resumes for over 10 years.
He has been quoted on numerous business and career-related topics in outlets including Business Insider, CNBC, Fortune, Glassdoor, The Ladders, and Thrive Global.