According to CEO Update’s March 4^th issue, new association job listings are up an eye-popping 45 percent in the first two months of 2011. At the same time, the article also says, some hiring managers are receiving fewer resumes.

After the multi-year recession, this is fantastic news for job seekers. It’s certainly better than the alternative! However, as with most things, there is a downside. Lately, I’ve had more than one person tell me they’re completely overwhelmed by the number of jobs they see advertised, and in the end, they don’t go after any of them.

If you fall into this category, you’re not the only one! Recently, I read the book, “The Paradox of Choice” by Barry Schwartz. One of the main themes revolved around the idea that too many choices can lead to indecision. This analysis paralysis can be just as bad as when there are no jobs advertised because they lead to the same thing – zero opportunities.

There are a few things you can do to motivate yourself to throw your hat into the ring when you see jobs that interest you. 

1)      Read the above sentence again – focus on jobs that interest you: If you apply to anything you’re a fit for, you’ll have less energy to go after those you really want.

2)      Niche – at least at the beginning: When you develop your target list, start with a manageable number by focusing on just one or two industries. For example, consider all the healthcare associations in your geographic area.

3)      Use your contacts to determine your targets: Since the majority of people find jobs through networking, it makes sense to go after the low hanging fruit first. Connections can go a LONG way toward increasing your odds of getting an interview.