9 Things You Should Do When Looking for a Job
A daily routine and checklist of activities to keep you on track during your job search.
This is part of a special series sharing insights, tips, and actions you can implement when searching for a job — whether leaving your current one or due to a recent layoff.
Job searching is a full-time job.
If you’re actively looking, you need structure. A routine. A checklist of activities that keeps you moving forward even when motivation is low.
Here are 9 things you should be doing when looking for a job:
1. Start Your Day with Intention
Before you dive into applications, take 10 minutes to set your priorities.
- What are the 3 most important things you need to accomplish today?
- What roles are you targeting?
- Who can you reach out to?
Write it down. A scattered job search leads to scattered results.
2. Check and Respond to Messages
First thing in the morning, check your:
- LinkedIn messages
- Any other platforms you’re using
Recruiters often reach out early. A fast response shows you’re engaged and interested.
Don’t let opportunities sit in your inbox.
3. Apply to New Positions
This should be a daily habit. Set a target number of applications per day.
I recommend 2-5 quality applications per day rather than 20 spray-and-pray applications.
Each application should be tailored:
- Resume keywords match the job description
- Cover letter (if required) is specific to the company
- You’ve researched the company and role
4. Follow Up on Pending Applications
Keep a tracker of everywhere you’ve applied. Once a week, follow up on applications that are over 7 days old.
A simple LinkedIn message to the recruiter or hiring manager can move your application to the top of the pile.
Template:
“Hi [Name], I recently applied for the [Role] position and wanted to express my continued interest. I’d love the opportunity to discuss how my experience in [relevant skill] could contribute to [Company]. Would you have time for a brief conversation?“
5. Network with Purpose
Reach out to at least 2-3 people per day in your network.
This could be:
- A former colleague
- An alumni from your school
- Someone at a company you’re interested in
- A recruiter in your industry
Networking is not about asking for a job. It’s about building relationships and staying top of mind.
6. Engage on LinkedIn
Spend 15-30 minutes engaging on LinkedIn:
- Comment on posts from people in your industry
- Share relevant articles with your thoughts
- Congratulate connections on new roles or achievements
Visibility matters. When recruiters search for candidates, active profiles stand out.
7. Practice Interview Skills
Even if you don’t have interviews scheduled, practice daily.
- Review common interview questions
- Practice your STAR stories out loud
- Record yourself and watch it back
When the interview comes, you want to be sharp — not rusty.
8. Learn Something New
Use this time to upskill. Take an online course. Get a certification. Learn a new tool.
This shows future employers that you’re proactive and committed to growth.
Bonus: Add new skills to your LinkedIn profile as you complete them.
9. Take Care of Yourself
Job searching is mentally exhausting. Rejection is part of the process.
Make sure you:
- Exercise or move your body
- Take breaks from the screen
- Connect with friends and family
- Celebrate small wins
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is part of the job search.
Sample Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Set intentions, check messages |
| 9:00 AM | Apply to 2-3 positions |
| 11:00 AM | Network outreach (2-3 people) |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch + exercise |
| 1:00 PM | Follow up on applications |
| 2:00 PM | LinkedIn engagement |
| 3:00 PM | Interview practice or learning |
| 4:00 PM | Wrap up, plan for tomorrow |
💡 Action Steps
✅ Create your daily checklist — Print this out or create a template in your notes app
📊 Set up a job tracker — Use a spreadsheet or tool like Teal to track applications
📅 Block your calendar — Treat job searching like work hours
🎯 Set weekly goals — How many applications? How many networking conversations?
Consistency beats intensity. Show up every day, do the work, and the results will follow.
This article is for educational purposes and not career advice.
Keep Reading
Build a Team, Not a Family: The Operating Model Behind 10x Startups
If you want to win by a mile, you can't run your company like a family. Here's what "Olympic-level" standards actually look like in a startup.
First Day of the Year: Reflect. Refine. Execute.
January 1 is the one day each year that feels universally quieter. That makes it the perfect day for reflection. Here's my annual ritual.
Three Things I'm Doing To Prevent Being In Between Jobs
Layoffs are still in full swing. Here's what I'm doing to prepare myself while I still have a job — so I'm never caught off guard.