Keeping Track of Your Job Search

The job search can be an extensive and exhausting process. You have to tailor each resume and cover letter to the particular job you are applying to. Things were different in the 20th century when you would send out one resume to several companies. Today it’s a lot more detailed. Filling out several applications can be confusing.

How do I keep track of it all? Which companies did I apply to? Which position was it for? I don’t remember!

I get the phrase, “I have a job interview.” Yay! So, I ask, “What is the name of the company you applied at or which position did you apply for?”I get the: “I don’t know, or I don’t remember. I’ve applied to several jobs. I can’t keep track anymore.”

It is a common response I have received, so you are not alone.

Times certainly have changed since I applied for my first job. It honestly seemed simpler to me. I’d fill out the job application and I’d either get a call to schedule an interview right away or I’d follow up and know whether the interview was going to happen or not. The interview process was more immediate and the hiring was quick as well. Today a company receives several resumes for one job posting. Technology also makes it easier to find jobs in other parts of town, states, or even countries.

There are various apps that can help you keep track of your job searches, some for a fee and some are free, such as: CareerShift.com or JibberJobber.com, not to mention job search engines, such as: Indeed or LinkedIn

Keeping track of your job search is important, as you don’t want to miss application deadlines, interview appointments, names of contacts and the companies and positions you’ve applied for, or forgetting to follow up with a hand written thank you card or e-mail.

You can also create a spreadsheet that might look something like this:

How detailed you want your spreadsheet to be depends on your needs. You can include information, such as:

Date you applied
Company
Contact name and e-mail
Position for which you applied
Action or Application Summary (For instance: Did you speak with a hiring manager? Have you e-mailed your resume or applied online?)
Interview (date and details, such as the location of the interview, professional or casual attire, etc. - Is it a panel interview?)
Next steps (Always follow up with a thank you card? Also, follow up with a call if you have not heard back about the status of your application?)