By Alvah Parker

1. Clarify the goal of your search - It may seem straightforward enough: "I want a new job." But take a deeper look at the skills you want to use, the environment in which you want to work, and the career path you want to pursue. By being clear and specific on what kind of job you're looking for and why, you'll be able to define your value for a potential employer, create a sales-oriented resume that positions you appropriately, and expand your network in the right direction.
2. Plan a daily schedule - Have specific hours during the day when you are at your desk working on finding a new job. If you're presently out of work, establishing a consistent routine reduces the number of decisions you have to make each morning and helps structure your day. If you're working and also looking for a job, set aside an hour every day to make calls, set up networking meetings, or research potential employers. When planning your schedule, be sure to leave time for exercise and being with friends. By scheduling time for your job search, you can stay focused on moving forward all aspects of your search strategy.
3. Set aside enough time to do the job search well - A solid job search involves a lot of research, making contacts, and follow-up correspondence. Be realistic about the time you need to do these tasks. If you do not allot enough time you will be careless about job applications and feel frustrated about the lack of progress. It takes time to cultivate networking contacts and expand your network sufficiently to uncover "hidden" job opportunities.
4. Treat your job search as a business - In a job search, you are operating as a sales executive and the product you are selling is you. As with any sales situation, you have to foster a lot of prospects before you make one "sale." Have lots of balls in the air. Ask any sales person about his/her sales funnel. 
5. Keep a good record keeper - Keep track of the jobs you have applied for - where, when, and with whom you have interviewed. Follow up will be easier if you have the information all in one place, for example, in a 3-ring binder or electronic organizer. Take notes during all phone conversations and interviews.
6. Have other meaningful work - Do some volunteer or contract work. It gives you something to talk about when you interview and makes you feel productive and useful.
7. Stay positive - Do what it takes to keep happy and optimistic during your search. No one wants to hire someone who is angry or sad. This may mean splurging on dessert, letting go of the frustration you feel about the job search process, buying a new outfit, and/or taking the weekend off. Denial or holding a grudge will not make you happy. Do not put your life on hold.
8. Find a partner to work with - A job search can be very isolating. Find a friend or a coach to talk to you regularly. Tell him/her what is happening in your search. Brainstorm and strategize with your friend or coach. Rehearse with the person when you have an interview or when you are going to make an important call.
9. Work to objectives - Set realistic goals that you are able to accomplish - for example, the number of networking contacts established or informational interviews conducted - It feels good when you do!
10. Strengthen your confidence - Do whatever it takes to make you feel confident and happy during your job search. This may mean part time work or being with people who recognize you as the capable person you are. You must exude confidence and energy to be hirable.
11. Join a group for support - Exchanging ideas with others is helpful. A job opportunity that is not right for one member of the group may be right for you. You might look to the group for social activities too. If there is no existing group in your area, how about starting one?

Alvah Parker is a Work/Life Coach with ASME JobCoach, specializing in high potential, career focused people who are in career transition, looking to start a new business, or boost their overall performance. You can reach Alvah at 877-262-2470 or online at ASME JobCoach.