Been down the sourcing rabbit hole before? If you're not sure what that means, read [this article] first—then come back to this one. 

Here's how I stay focused.
 

1. Start with a Clear Intake Brief:
   Before I even start sourcing, I clarify the must-haves, the nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers with the hiring manager. This avoids back-and-forth later.

2. Set a 20-Minute Sourcing Timer:
   I use a simple timer — 20 minutes to source, 10 to review, and move on. No endless scrolling.

3. Use Structured Boolean — and Stick to It:
   I use structured Boolean and stick to my filters. So if I’m looking for a ‘Python Developer in Austin,’ I won’t waste time clicking on DevOps engineers in Dallas. If it’s not in scope, I skip it.

4. Bookmark Profiles — Don’t Chase Every Lead:
   If I find someone interesting but a bit off track — like a great backend dev who’s in a different location or industry — I just bookmark them to revisit later. No need to go down a side trail during the main search.

5. Batch Messaging Separately:
   I don’t switch between sourcing and messaging. First I source, then I message. It keeps me in flow.

6. Pause and Ask: Am I Progressing?:
   I do a quick check: Am I actually closer to a shortlist? Or just bouncing around online?

To conclude, Sourcing isn’t a scavenger hunt. It’s strategy. Stay focused, stay intentional, and you’ll move way faster.

Happy Sourcing!