Need help planning your job search? Use the Eisenhower Matrix in 4 simple steps

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the job search process and don't know where to start?

Whether you're a recent graduate looking for your first job or a seasoned professional searching for a new opportunity, the job search process can be daunting.

With the Eisenhower Matrix, you can approach the job search with a clear and systematic plan, allowing you to focus your efforts where they will have the greatest impact.

The Eisenhower Matrix is a productivity tool that helps you prioritize your tasks by breaking them down into 4 categories based on their urgency and importance:

1. Urgent & Important —Do it now

2. Important but Not Urgent —Schedule

3. Urgent but Not Important —Delegate/Receive help

4. Not Urgent & Not Important —Delete

This image was created by the Author using Canva, with information from Eisenhower.me.

Using the Eisenhower Matrix, you can:

• choose to do any or all of the tasks mentioned.

• add any other tasks that you find appropriate for your own job search.

These are tasks that demand immediate attention.

For example:

Deadlines

Resume/Portfolio: Make sure your resume is always up-to-date. Showcase your projects and skills.

Submit job applications: Submit your resume/portfolio for positions that have a fast-approaching deadline.

Networking: Connect with people who work at companies where you're interested in applying for a job. Join a job fair or other networking events.

Swift responsiveness: Respond to emails and phone calls from potential employers or recruiters as soon as possible.

These are tasks that are scheduled and important for long-term success but don't have to be done right away. For example:

Personal Growth and Goal Planning Activities

Acquire new skills: Research skills and tools you can learn to improve yourself in a desired field.

Tailor your resume and cover letter: Customize your job application to match the specific job you're applying for.

Follow up with potential employers: Send thank-you notes or emails after an interview, or check on a hiring manager about the status of your application.

Research & Learn: Learn how to answer the types of questions you could encounter during interviews.

These are tasks that are urgent but require assistance. For example:

Receive Help

From your community:

• Get feedback on your resume/portfolio/cover letter from your friends, teachers, or any other community you're involved in.

• Job searching can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Vent to your friends, family, and online communities.

From digital/online tools:

• Reword your cover letter to sound more professional.

• Prepare for interviews.

• Find references.

• Use platforms like Notion to think, write, and plan.

From social media: Share your experience on social media. You might receive help from someone with similar experiences, or discover new opportunities.

These are tasks that are non-essential for you.For example:

Unproductive Activities

Scrolling through social media feeds for hours without a specific purpose.

Comparing yourself to others. Focus on your journey!

Spending time on self-improvement activities that don't relate to your career goal.

Spending too much time researching potential employers without taking action to apply or network.

I know the job-searching process can be stressful. Use the Eisenhower Matrix to help you to prioritize tasks in your job-search!