If you're looking for a new job, it can be difficult to know where to start.
You may have been in the same position for several years and aren't sure if it's time for a change. Or maybe you're just starting out in your career and don't have any industry experience yet. Whatever your situation is, here are some steps for getting started on your job hunt:
Set up a gSheet Job Hunting Tracker
The first step in your job search is setting up a gSheet Job Hunting Tracker. This is where you can keep track of all things related to your job search, including:
Interviews and interviewers
Your key accomplishments
How to answer the prompt "Tell me about yourself"
Suggested questions to ask during your interview
Create a gDocs JD Master List
You should start by creating a document that lists different jobs, job title variations, industries, and companies that interest you.
Once the document is created, paste the job descriptions that you interview for here. This will help you keep track of what is expected from each position and which key accomplishments are relevant to mention during your interviews.
Follow your target companies and set up notifications for relevant job titles
It’s important to keep track of the companies that you are interested in working for. You should set up alerts for relevant job titles and also your target companies.
Set up your calendar
Your phone is a great tool for keeping track of appointments, meetings and other events. But if you want to maximize the efficiency of this tool, you need to sync it with your computer so that all of your appointments are also synced across both devices.
Set up gMail Folders to sort job app emails
If you're applying for multiple jobs, it can be difficult to keep track of all the different emails. It's important to sort these emails so that you can find them easily when you need them.
Create a folder called "Job Apps". This will contain all automated messages.
Create another folder called "Follow-Up Emails." This will contain emails from recruiters or hiring managers that have contacted you to interview or move forward.
Create a folder called "Rejection Emails". This will remind you which positions and companies can be crossed out.
Update your PDF resume
Make sure it is up-to-date and easy to print out. You want the information on your resume to tell a clear story of growth, not just be an aggregated list of what you've done for years or even decades.
Linkedin and Online Profiles Update
Utilize the Open to Work green profile banner and post a short out that your network can share or engage with.
Get a Linkedin Endorsement from a former boss or coworker.
Upload your new resume to job sites. For some, your profile gets bumped up to recruiters when you reupload your new resume.
Conclusion
Job searching is a long and challenging process. It’s important to stay organized, keep track of your progress, and recognize your own accomplishments.
And remember that the most important part—when the journey starts to seem long and endless—is to simply take the next step.