We’ve all felt the Monday motivation buzz — setting big goals, making plans to “get serious” about job searching… only to lose steam by Wednesday.
Here’s the thing – the problem isn’t the goal. It’s the lack of a job search strategy or system.
As James Clear puts it:
“You don’t rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”
So, whether you’re actively applying or just testing the waters, your job search needs more than good intentions. It requires a structure that helps you show up consistently, especially when motivation dips.
If your goal is to “Find a new job”
Then you need to build a job search strategy or system to support your goal. Without one:
- It’s vague, overwhelming and not actionable
- It doesn’t give you a system to follow or help track progress
- It often leads to reactive applying, and applications that lack any strategy or clarity
With this in mind, it’s not about doing more — it’s about doing things with purpose.
What a simple job search system can look like
By all means, if a colour-coded spreadsheet or fancy software works for you, then go for it!
However, a system is simply a set of habits and tools that support consistent action.
Here are a few things worth tracking:
✅ Networking activity
Who have you spoken to recently? Who can you reconnect with? Relationships and a network you build in your working life can give you access to opportunities that you may not find in an online job search.
Meetings with people who understand what you are hoping to achieve, offer good advice, good insight, helpful connections, support or best of all, the ones which lead to a job.
✅ Applications & follow-ups
What roles have you applied for? Keep a short log with the relevant details so nothing gets missed
When should I follow up? Note when you applied, when the role closes, and relevant contact details
This helps you stay in control of your job search and avoid sounding unprepared if the company or recruiter calls you about your application.
✅ Reflections
What’s working? What’s draining you? Are you still aligned with what you’re looking for?
✅ Time blocks
When are you doing your job search tasks, and for how long? Even 20–30 minutes of focused time can build momentum.
I’ve said it many times, your job search can feel like a full-time job! Do plan how it fits into your day and block this time, as well as downtime, so it doesn’t become all-consuming.
Pro tip – Treat your job search like a project, not a panic button!
How systems support confidence
- A system or strategy gives you direction when motivation drops
- They help reduce emotional fatigue by giving structure to uncertainty
- They remind you that you are making progress, even when outcomes take time
And most importantly? They keep you anchored in your values, AKA the stuff you care about — and what you are looking for, not swayed by panic or pressure.
With this in mind
You don’t need a perfect plan. You need one that’s realistic, supportive, and keeps you moving forward.
And if you’re not sure where to start — or feel like your current approach isn’t working to find a job you will love — I’m always happy to help.
Whether it’s career change coaching, a CV refresh, or just a clarity check on your direction, don’t underestimate the value of having someone in your corner.
Ready to refresh your job search strategy or get some clarity on your next steps? Let’s talk.