Don't consider this time to be a vacation, and don't let anyone else think of your job search that way either. Get up early, get dressed, and go to a spot where you can plan your day. Stake out an area to use as your office, and have all your job-search materials ready. Even if you can't convert a spare bedroom or alcove into an office, assemble in one spot your resumes, stationery, typewriter or computer, stamps, lists and organizational charts, and most importantly, a phone. An answering machine might also prove to be a worthwhile investment.
Whatever you do, don't sleep until noon and lounge around in a sweat suit with a bowl of munchies. This mentality and behavior is counterproductive. If you need to take a long weekend for vacation, do it. Then resume your search. Be wary of those who ask you to run errands, baby-sit, or do other chores "because you have all that free time." Establish in your own mind and in the minds of others that, for now at least, finding the right job is your primary occupation.
Practice Time Management and Self-Discipline
Make a "do-list" each day and prioritize each item with an A (most important), B (important), or C (least important). Group errands when possible, for example, when you're downtown doing research at the library, you may also plan to drop by the post office to buy stamps or mail letters. Build rewards into your day, too. Perhaps after you've accomplished all your morning tasks, you'll treat yourself and meet a friend for lunch.
Take pleasure in checking items off your list, and consider keeping all your lists together in one notebook or folder. Sometimes reviewing old lists can remind you of your accomplishments or give you new energy and direction. At the end or beginning of each day, evaluate the items left undone. Either replaces the items on a new list or reassess and abandon them altogether. Careful time management habits are essential to most occupations, and developing them now can be a skill you could mention in forthcoming interviews.
Examine the sample list that follows to see how one job hunter has organized and prioritized tasks.
Find Outlets for Stress
Do everything you can to keep yourself healthy and calm. Exercise is a great way to clear your head and relieve tension. Many people find relaxation techniques to be helpful. Build a support network of helpful friends and family. If the pressure becomes too intense, see a counselor or visit your rabbi, clergyman, or pastor. If possible, avoid people who discourage you or distract you from the goals you've set. Taking care of your mental and physical health will give you an edge in the job search.
Finally, remember that smart people realize when they need extra help. Most community mental health centers offer the services of professional career counselors, and fees are often based on a sliding scale. Colleges also have career counselors on staff, and the costs are included in your tuition. Career counselors can administer skills or personality inventories, provide you with contacts, review your resume or help you practice interviewing. Take advantage of all the help that is available to you!
