Congratulations, you are now ready to fully launch your job search!

A successful job search requires sustained momentum, consistent action and focus. Looking for a job requires that you work both hard and smartly. Hard, meaning that you should plan on logging close to 30 hours a week (or as close to that as time permits) on your job search, and smartly, meaning that you concentrate your efforts on activities that have the highest likelihood of leading to interviews and offers. So, what are some of the best ways to be really, really smart in your job search?

1. Keep the pipeline full
   The job search process requires you to “sell” yourself. Just as in other sales processes, numbers count. A large number of networking conversations leads to multiple interviews which result in a few offers. The more opportunities you pursue, the greater the probability of success.
2. Strategize and plan a job search campaign—attack the battlefield on many fronts
   Don’t put all your eggs in one basket—diversify your search by using a mix of networking, recruiters, direct mail, job boards and other search techniques. The majority of your time should revolve around networking activities.
3. Good research pays dividends
   Doing due diligence when researching people and companies pays off on several fronts—you’ll uncover leads, be able to dazzle the interviewer with your insights, and you’ll be better prepared when negotiating salary and benefits.
4. Follow-up is crucial
   Anyone who has worked in recruiting will tell you that when it comes to filling openings, the squeaky wheel (albeit a pleasant sounding squeak) does indeed get greased. Always follow up your online inquiries with a phone call. Contact and recontact your job leads on a regular basis.
5. Never assume a deal is a deal until an offer is finalized
   All too many job seekers learn this lesson the hard way. No matter how promising a situation seems to be, you cannot afford to relax your efforts until a deal is signed, sealed and delivered.

Finally, be sure to take advantage of all the tools and templates provided here on SuccessHawk to keep your search moving forward on a daily basis.