Hi there, it’s Jill!

Today, let’s talk about a more efficient, less draining way to approach your job search. I call it the “99% + 1%” model.

It means spending 99% of your time aiming — observing, preparing, and staying alert without wasting energy on suboptimal opportunities. Then, when the right opportunity appears in that 1% window, you go all out and give it your very best shot.

Why do I recommend this approach? Let’s dive in.

01

Why “Keep Trying” Isn’t Always the Best Strategy

We all know how much effort it takes to apply for a job:

• Talking to the hiring manager and current team members

• Letting your current manager know you’re exploring opportunities

• Preparing your application and tailoring your résumé

• Getting ready for multiple rounds of interviews

• Waiting, following up, and repeating the process

If you repeat this every few weeks without clear direction, it can quickly become exhausting, especially if previous attempts didn’t lead to an offer.

Over time, repeated, unfocused attempts can:

• Drain your energy and confidence

• Send the message that you’re always looking but not landing, which may impact how others perceive your readiness

People often say, “You just need to keep trying.” And while there’s truth in persistence, trying without reflection and iteration is simply busywork.

So what’s a smarter, more sustainable way?

02

99% of the Time: Aim at the Right Target

In the “99%” phase, your focus should be on three key actions:

✅ Collect Information
Network intentionally. Let people know what fields you’re interested in and learn about their roles.

✅ Hone Your Judgement
Understand what the job actually entails and learn to distinguish between roles that align with your goals and those that do not.

✅ Sharpen Your Skills
Continue to build the skills the target role requires and learn how to position yourself effectively.

Unless you urgently need to leave your current role, avoid applying for roles without sufficient information or clarity. Without this foundation, you risk landing in a position that doesn’t fit, forcing you to restart the job hunt — a cycle that slows real growth.

This “aiming” process may take 3 months, 6 months, or even longer, depending on the market. But trust that this is time well spent. Even if you’re not actively applying, you are making progress by:

• Training your judgement

• Understanding what different roles truly require

• Gaining clarity on what you want in your next role

This clarity is invaluable and can only be defined by you.

At the end of the day, those who end up in roles they love are often the ones who quietly stay in this stage while staying ready. They are calm but not inactive — networking, improving themselves, and keeping their radar on.

Then, when the opportunity appears…

03

1% of the Time: It’s Show Time

Suddenly, the people you’ve networked with mention a role opening on their team.

Your judgement tells you: this is it.

While others are just starting to do coffee chats, you’ve already built a connection with the hiring manager and planted seeds of interest.

You raise your hand and get shortlisted. The interviews begin, and you are prepared - drawing on all the information and skills you’ve built during your “99%” phase.

Round 1, Round 2, Round 3 — in each stage, you show them why you’re the right fit. You make it easy for them to choose you.

And they do.

People reach out to congratulate you, saying how competitive the process was. But only you know how much quiet, consistent work you did to get here. The true game, lies within that “99%”.

You landed the role — quickly and cleanly.

Final Thoughts

Looking for your next role can feel like a marathon, especially in a slow market. Knowing where to spend your energy and when to take action is key to avoiding burnout while positioning yourself for success.

Remember:
✨ You don’t have to be in a constant state of applying to make progress.
✨ Preparation, clarity, and timing are your quiet superpowers.

I hope this post helps bring clarity and encouragement as you plan your next move.

Cheers to your journey.

— Jill

Founder of Anchor Growth Newsletter

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