Organizing & Tracking
Once you’ve applied to several jobs, it can be tough to stay organized. To avoid confusion, it’s essential to have a clear system for tracking your applications. Creating a job search log is necessary to maximize your chances of success.
In this lesson, I’ll show you how to set up a simple tracking system to manage your applications efficiently so nothing falls through the cracks during your job search.
Why organize your job search?
To stay on top of applications
Some job openings are filled within a day, and some drag on for weeks. Keeping a clear log of your applications helps you track the status of each position. This way, you know when to follow up or move on if the opportunity isn’t progressing.
Don’t
Don’t rely on memory alone. You can easily forget where you’ve applied or lose track of follow-ups, leaving you unprepared when the company reaches out for an interview or a second round.
It helps you maintain professionalism
When you’re applying to multiple jobs, the details can get blurry. Tracking your job search ensures you don’t accidentally apply for the same job twice or forget to send a thank-you note after an interview. Staying organized also shows that you’re detail-oriented and professional in the application process and beyond.
Insider Tip
Keeping track of all your touchpoints with companies (e.g., interviews, follow-ups) can help you reconnect with hiring managers in the future if another opportunity comes up. You may even leverage those contacts for networking later on.
It gives you a sense of progress
Keeping track of your progress with a job search log can help you stay motivated by quantifying all the hard work you’re putting in. It can also help you maintain a steady pace by setting and checking off-targets like applying to a certain number of new jobs per week or spending a set amount of time on the search daily.
Don’t
Don’t get discouraged during your search. It’s easy to feel like you’re not getting anywhere, but seeing your progress on paper helps you stay focused and avoid burnout.
What is a job search log?
It’s a template to keep your job search activities in a central place. Each company has a unique application and interview process, so it can be hard to track all your activities. This simple tool will allow you to enjoy the benefits of an organized search and make it easier to follow up along the way.
It also helps you identify patterns and analyze your job search strategy; for instance, you may notice that your applications are more successful when you apply to certain types of jobs, use certain application methods, or apply at certain times. In other words, a job search log can be a powerful tool for improving your job search effectiveness.
How to set up your job search log
Step 1: Choose your platform
The first decision is how you want to track your job search. I recommend using Google Sheets because it’s free, accessible from anywhere, and easily shareable if you need input from mentors or career advisors. Other good options include Excel, a Word document, or even a physical notebook if you prefer something tactile.
Insider Tip
To help make your search seamless, here’s a free job search log template you can download. You’ll be prompted to make a copy when you click the link. Once you do so, you can modify the sheet to fit your needs and save it to your Google Drive account.
Step 2: Create columns for key information
Your job search log should include all the critical information needed to stay organized. Here’s what I recommend including:
- Company name
- Position title
- Date applied
- Application status (applied, in progress, interview scheduled, etc.)
- Contact person and email
- Follow-up dates
- Interview dates
- Personal notes (any customizations you made to your resume or cover letter)
Don’t
Don’t forget to track follow-up actions. If you don’t log when and how you followed up, you risk either following up too soon or not at all, making you seem disorganized or a bit too eager.
Step 3: Log each job application
For every job you apply to, immediately enter all relevant details into your job search log. This is where you’ll track the entire process, from application submission to the final outcome, and avoid confusion down the road.
Insider Tip
In the “Notes” section, jot down how you tailored your resume or cover letter for that specific job. This will help you remember what you emphasized if the company calls for an interview, and it’s also useful for pattern recognition—are you getting more interviews when you emphasize specific skills or experiences? This section is great for analysis.
How to use your job search log effectively
Review and update regularly
Set aside time at least once a week to review your log and update the status of any applications. Check-in on whether you need to follow up, reach out to a contact, or apply for additional positions.
Don’t
Don’t let your log get outdated. A neglected log could cause you to miss important follow-up opportunities or forget key details before an interview.
Track networking efforts
Your job search isn’t just about submitting applications. It’s also about building and nurturing connections. Use your log to track informational interviews, networking events, or conversations with industry contacts.
Insider Tip
Make a note of any contacts who have been particularly helpful or companies where you’ve built rapport with the hiring manager. Keep in touch with them even if there’s no immediate job opening—it might lead to future opportunities.
Set goals and measure your progress
Your log can help you set tangible goals for your job search, such as applying to five jobs a week or networking for two hours.
Don’t
Don’t overload yourself. Applying to too many jobs in a short period can dilute the quality of your applications and make it harder to follow up effectively. Focus on the quality of applications rather than quantity.
Key Takeaways
- Stay organized: An up-to-date log prevents mistakes and helps you manage your job search like a pro.
- Tailor and track: Keeping detailed notes on how you customize your applications helps maintain consistency across multiple interactions.
- Review regularly: Make it a habit to review your log at least weekly to ensure you’re staying on top of every opportunity.
- Track networking, too: Networking is a crucial part of the job search process—log every interaction, even if it’s just an introductory conversation.
- Set realistic goals: Focus on attainable goals to avoid burnout and keep the quality of your applications high.