Job Search Success: The Benefits of Tracking Your Applications and How to Do It

In the previous blog where we shared how to create an effective job search strategy, we mentioned staying organized and tracking your applications. We wanted to dive into this in a bit more depth, because trust me, it will save you multiple headaches in the long run.

Why bother keeping track?

Organization and efficiency are key in managing a job search, and having a system in place to manage applications helps achieve this. Keeping track of your job applications and their status is essential for several reasons:

Firstly, it helps prevent duplicate applications, ensuring you don't harm your chances by applying to the same company multiple times.

It also allows you to plan your follow-ups and the status of the application eg. whether you've followed up, heard back, still waiting to hear, interview scheduled, etc.

Arguably one of the key takeaways of monitoring your job search progress is that it allows for self-reflection, identifying patterns and refining strategies through informed decisions.

So how do you actually do it?

*Before we jump into this section, remember that there's no right or wrong way to stay organized. Experiment with different approaches until you find the one that works best for you.

Create a job application tracker:

Maintain a spreadsheet or use note-taking apps to track the positions you've applied for.

Include:

• company name
• company contact information
• role you’ve applied for
• when you applied
• any follow-up actions needed
• interview dates
• additional notes for reference
• communication log

Customize the tracker:

Adapting the tracking system to fit your preferences makes it so much easier to use.

Customize columns in spreadsheets or utilize color-coding and dropdown features to categorize applications by status (applied, interview scheduled, job offer received, etc.).

Make it user-friendly and intuitive to navigate.

Manage your time:

Burnout is real, so schedule your time to avoid losing momentum. Many job seekers find it valuable to use time management tools, such as digital calendars or productivity apps, to block out time for their job search. Use this time to search and apply for roles, schedule application deadlines and reminders for follow-ups, and interview appointments. Set alerts for key dates to avoid missing important opportunities.

Utilize the cloud:

Create a centralized folder on your computer or cloud storage where you can store all relevant job search-related documents.

Maintain a well-organized structure, categorizing resumes, cover letters, references, and certifications by job application or employer name.

This way, you can easily locate and share the documents you need, when you need them.

Take time to find the tools and methods that work best for you. Whether it's notes, spreadsheets, or utilizing specialized job search platforms, the ultimate goal is to maintain clarity, stay on top of your applications, and streamline your job search efforts.

When you embrace organization as an essential part of your job hunting strategy, you'll be well-positioned to navigate through the process with confidence and success.