Using the 15-10-2 Method in Your Job Search

Some job seekers wake up in the morning and say, “What in the world am I going to do today to find a job?” In reality, job seeking can be a full-time job itself! There are many things you can do each day to look for a job and increase your chances of finding one.

At Employment Services, we encourage job seekers to use the 15-10-2 method to increase their networking opportunities. With this method, you will instead wake up and say, “I have so much to do today!”

What Is the 15-10-2 Method?

The 15-10-2 method is a daily effort to identify networking opportunities and connect with them in the most effective way. With this method, you will be able to make lasting and solid first impressions on those who can help you find the job you seek. This approach will get you out of the house and talking to, engaging with, and learning from other professionals.

15-10-2 is an easy way to remember the three parts of the method: identifying 15 new resources, making 10 contacts, and holding 2 face-to-face meetings or interviews. These three action items should be done every day. Learn more about the three components of the 15-10-2 method below.

Identify 15 New Resources

Each day you will identify 15 new resources. A resource is anything that will help you identify work opportunities and get you connected to the right people. A list, though not all-inclusive, of potential resources is below.

As you work to identify 15 new resources each day, you will begin to see that opportunity is everywhere and resources are limitless.

Make 10 Contacts

Once you’ve identified 15 resources, the next step is to make 10 contacts every day. A contact is any employment-related interaction with one of your resources. Some examples can be applying for a job, sending a resume, telling friends and family that you are looking for work, and speaking to potential employers. It can also be a follow-up activity such as making a follow-up phone call, sending a thank-you note, or sharing your LinkedIn profile.

The more you interact with others and let others know you are looking for a job, the more people will remember your needs. Most people are happy to help others when there is a need. These 10 daily contacts can be crucial to your success as you engage others to keep you in the front of their mind.

Hold 2 Face-to-Face Meetings or Interviews

Each day, hold 2 face-to-face meetings or interviews. Meeting with others in person fosters better communication and understanding. People usually communicate more clearly when they can use body language and facial expressions, which helps them to communicate their intended message.

And when you meet face-to-face with at least 2 people who work in the industry where you hope to find a job (whether it’s for an initial introduction, informational interview, or job interview), you can strengthen relationships with potential employers and colleagues, learn about the potential working environment and atmosphere of a company, and become more familiar with organizations in your field. This interaction will help you feel more comfortable as you continue to search for the right job.

Why Should I Use the 15-10-2 Method?

On average, job seekers spend 11 hours a week searching for jobs. Those hours are often spent looking for job postings on the Internet, filling out job applications online, and sending in resumes without any personal engagement. That kind of effort is not typically effective and leads to greater discouragement, feelings of isolation, and frustration.

The 15-10-2 method will help you focus on the most productive and efficient job searching, networking, and contacting that will ultimately get you the job you want at a much faster rate. With this method, finding a full-time job becomes your exciting full-time job until you land a great position.

For personalized help with the 15-10-2 method and your job search in general, meet with a job search expert one on one. Our employment advisors are here to help you with your job search needs.