How do you set realistic job search timelines with clients who are eager to secure a position quickly?

The discussion will start by exploring your dream job. Dive into your skills and experience, along with the industry and position you're targeting. Be prepared to talk openly about your qualifications and desired level of responsibility. It's important to set realistic expectations. Finding the perfect job can take time. Patience and persistence are key throughout the search. Remember, a well-crafted strategy will lead to better results than a rushed approach.

When setting job search timelines, I always start by understanding my clients' career goals. This crucial step answers many questions and sets the foundation for a realistic plan. Remember, job searching is a marathon, not a sprint. Picking a job in a rush can lead to future struggles. Instead, research the market, equip yourself with necessary skills, and keep looking for the right fit. I am saying this because, i have been there too!!! A few of my clients received multiple interview calls within two weeks. But, I advised them to evaluate each Job role, company culture, and responsibilities before making a decision. Patience and preparation are key to finding a fulfilling career.

* Advise/discuss with clients to set S.M.A.R.T Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time frame. * Give examples/identify a pathway/s and skills that will assist client to set these goals to find, apply for jobs and to ace their interviews using S.T.A.R technique (situation, task, action, result). * Discuss/advise clients to create and/or make use of a daily/weekly to-do-list/roster. To keep track of their short-term & long term goals, job searches and applications, tasks and activities. * Update their resume, referees, socials and call on their contacts for support. * Practice interview techniques * Get connected with online platforms * Advise to attend hubs, expo's, seminars and info sessions * Research, research, research!

Today's world is unfortunately an employer's market and the "it's a numbers game" is not how it works right now. Effective job seekers need to be strategic and focused on quality versus quantity, which aligns with setting realistic expectations. This is done best by identifying companies of interest, preferred industries, and utilizing contacts to effectively network within that realm. Once a job seeker has organized non-negotiables (company type/size/location/role, etc)., then it's best to reach out to hiring mangers/recruiters directly to share interest and strengths. This well-defined approach will lead to more interviews (and therefore offers) because it is targeted and specific versus massive applying online and hoping to hear back.

1. Assess Current Market Conditions: Evaluate the current job market trends and industry demand to provide clients with a realistic understanding of the job search landscape. 2. Set Milestones and Goals: Break down the job search process into manageable milestones, such as updating resumes, applying for jobs, and preparing for interviews, to create a structured and achievable timeline. 3. Manage Expectations: Communicate openly about potential challenges and average job search durations to align client expectations with market realities, ensuring they stay motivated and patient throughout the process.

El seguimiento a cada etapa y acción es fundamental para definir plazos realistas, incluso para que el cliente maneje la ansiedad que genera la búsqueda laboral. Cuando esto no existe, se torna más complejo... Mi consejo si usted va a contratar una asesoría, fíjese que se trabaje en función de un plan con metas y plazos.

The job search timeline is highly individualized, and there’s no guarantee that a client will land a job within a certain amount of time. There are so many external factors at play, in addition to the client’s desire and ability to spend time on job-seeking activities. I encourage professionals to approach the job search as a continuous, steady stream—not a faucet to turn on and off only when you need it. With a strategic approach, you will be poised to drastically reduce the job search timeline, because you will already be prepared.

Your timeline for finding a new job has nothing to do with a company's hiring timeline. If you need to find a job sooner rather than later, determine what factors are in your control. For example, how much networking can you do? Where can you leverage current and past relationships in your job search? While applying for jobs can be "easier," it is typically less effective than networking. So, while applying through job boards may make you "busier," it may not yield quicker results. Lastly, don't let your foot off the gas when finding that new job. Be resilient and persistent in telling people why you are a valuable talent for their organization.

I understand the urgency some coaching clients may feel to find a new job quickly. However, rushing to accept the first offer that seems acceptable can often cost more in the long run than taking a bit more time to find the right fit. If your financial situation allows, consider being more selective in your job search. On average, most of my clients secure a new position within 4 to 12 weeks. While this isn't a guarantee, it serves as a good rule of thumb to help manage expectations. Remember, investing a little extra time now can lead to greater job satisfaction and career growth in the future.

It's best to have a multi-prong approach to effectively job search aligned with a realistic timeline - i.e. 1) networking, 2) be active on LinkedIn (posts/comments), 3) reach out to people directly after applying online, 4) market research / stay up-to-date on hiring best practices, and 5) understand individual skills gaps / prepare for any technical aspects of interviews if applicable. By executing these various approaches simultaneously, this will lead to success sooner, since this utilizes several angles - something will land sooner rather than later. From here, setting weekly SMART goals aligned with these 5 areas is also an effective strategy.