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Job Hunter's Guide Logo Step Three Search: Tracking

Job hunting can take days, weeks or — more often — months, so you need to keep track of all the information and interactions you gain as you search. Tracking your efforts with a notebook and calendar makes the search smoother and simpler. It saves time because you won't duplicate effort. It frees your mind from trying to remember what you said to whom. Finally, it helps you see how much you've accomplished!

What to Track

Here is some of the information you can track:

  • Names of contacts

  • Deadlines

  • Actions taken and their results

  • Information about prospective employers

  • Copies of applications you have submitted

  • Copies of cover letters you have sent

  • Copies of job listings / descriptions / ads
TRACKING PAGE EXAMPLE

Job: Purchasing Clerk
Employer: ZZZ, 888 Eighth St, 555-666-7777

Joan told me about the position; she works there.
Contact: Betty, receptionist, 555-666-7778
Contact: Trini, Purchasing Coord, 555-666-7795

2/02/02 I called and spoke with Betty. I need to send an application. Hiring mgr: Trinidad Diaz. I called him, mentioned Joan. He said go ahead and apply.

2/06/02 I hand-delivered my applic to HR dept and to Trini D.'s office.

2/10/02 Left msg with Betty re: status.

2/11/02 Betty called; they're reviewing applic

2/17/01 I called; Betty said Trini had been out of town so things were a little behind

2/20/02 Trini called. Interview scheduled for 2/22 with Trini and Michael Martin. Bring work samples. Told reference people to expect calls.

2/22/02 Had interview. Sent thank you letter to Trini and to Mike. I really want this job!

2/25/02 Got call for second interview: tomorrow with Bill Gregg, the CEO.

2/26/02 Had 2nd interview; sent thank you to Bill.

02/27/02 I got the job!!!

How to Use Your Notebook

Here are some ways to track your job hunting efforts:

  • Use one page (at least) per job.

  • Tape the ad or listing or write the job description.

  • Write the date you contacted the employer.

  • Write the name and title of each contact person.

  • Describe each phone, email, fax or face-to-face interaction.

  • Note the main points of each conversation.

Your Calendar

Your calendar helps you follow-up on each job so that nothing slips between the cracks.

  • Use your calendar to keep a daily to-do list.

  • List calls to make and actions to take. Plan your traveling to be most time-efficient.
    For example, if you submit an application on Monday, write the employer's name and number on the calendar page for the next Monday. Then you'll remember to call to confirm that your submission is in order.

 


"As you can guess by now, you have to be a super recordkeeper or all of this will fall apart at the seams and you'll end up not applying to your favorite company, or applying six times-and having all six applications trashed."

Ron Fry, Your First Job

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Last Revision: October 13, 2003