If you’re actively job seeking, you probably already realise how hard it can be to keep track of everything. Who you’ve applied to and when, job application closing dates, recruitment agency meetings and phone and face to face interviews you’ve had scheduled. One thing is for sure, this isn’t a process you want to mess up. So, here’s 5 tips to help you stay on top of all your job search activities!
1. Use Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets are a great and simple way to organise all your essential job search data. It also makes planning for interviews much easier. All you need to do is list each company or recruitment agency you apply for in one column, and the other columns are totally up to you. Here’s a few suggestions to get you started:
Job title
Application due date
Date applied
Links to the job and company website
Interview date
Company contact information (name, email and phone number)
Type of application submitted (resume / cover letter / selection criteria / online etc.)
Date to follow up your application
Notes for your interview
Pro tip: You can sort and filter the spreadsheet by any of your column headings. Check on upcoming due dates and interviews with ease.
2. Create a Separate Email Address
Depending on how organised you are normally, it’s a good idea to keep all of your job search correspondence separate. If you’re great with organising emails, you can use separate folders however we find a completely new email address is easier. It also means you can check your job-related emails without getting distracted by other things.
A new email address is also a good opportunity to get rid of the email addresses from years gone by…the ‘hotchick@gmail’ address you used as a teenager isn’t what employers want to see so create a new, professional gmail account.
3. Have Dedicated Job Search Time Each Day
Set aside job search time each day and stick to it. If you’re not currently working, you might like to spend 2-3 hours each day searching and writing your applications. It may sound like a lot, however each application needs to be tailored for that role and employer.
If you’re currently working you may only spend an hour each night and a bit more on weekends. The important thing is to make your plan and stick to it. Spending too much time on job search can lead to frustration and boredom. As a result, the quality of your applications may suffer.
4. Keep All Important Information Ready for Interview
Try to have printed copies of all relevant documents easily accessible. This might include things like your resume, academic transcripts, relevant certificates or qualifications, written references etc.
If you’ve got all of these items ready to go, it’s one less thing to worry about before an interview, and you can spend more time focusing on interview planning.
5. Use a Calendar for Interview Booking
Most importantly, use a calendar for all important events. Whether you choose the calendar on your phone or computer, it doesn’t matter. Phone calendars are great because you will generally have your phone with you to receive alerts. When you book an interview, put it straight in the calendar (and your spreadsheet).
Needless to say, double booking for interviews or missing them altogether is certainly not going to make the right impression.
Need More Job Search Advice?
At Blue Sky Career Consulting, we’re the experts in job search coaching. We can help with all aspects of your job search and also offer specialist resume writing, LinkedIn profiles and interview training. Contact us today and find out how we can make finding your new career much easier!