There are some quick and easy job search organisation tools that you can employ that will not only make life easier, but help the way your application is perceived. For example, for paper based application, try to get some personalised stationery.  It is relatively cost effective to get even small quantities printed with your name, address and telephone number.  Shop around.  The cost compared to the perception by a potential employer makes this very worthwhile “added extra” on your job search. It will make you stand out.  If you are unable to get printed stationery make sure that all letters are at least typed, and professionally produced via Word or some such WP program.  The standard size for paper in the U.K by the way is A4.

If your typing is not up to it, either hire someone, or find a friend who can help.  It is also handy to know where you can get good quality photocopying – just in case.  You may need to reproduce pages of your passport or driving licence for example.

Incidentally your CV should be on plain paper (just in case you were thinking of getting it reproduced on the headed!).

Search For A Job

Most applications will be delivered online or via email these days. However, some companies will insist on a hardcopy or postal application. So, it’s worthwhile making sure you have a supply of envelopes. In addition, I would strongly recommend buying a wad of stamps up front.  There is nothing more annoying than standing in a post office queue for half an hour when you have a lot of urgent job applications to get in the post!  (And, don’t they always close the kiosk position when you get to the front of the queue?).

The next item is an optional extra, but it is something I always do.  Even the experts don’t agree on this one, but I think it’s a good idea.  A brief case.  I always carry one, and you never know when you might need it.  In it?  well, some pens, some note paper (in case of need at the interview), spare copies of your CV, the file for the particular job interview you are attending (see later), your diary and of course……your lunch.  (Only kidding about the lunch).

That brings me very nicely to the next item on the list.  Files!  Yep, as mentioned earlier, you need a filing system.  I cannot stress this enough, an efficient filing system really is one of the keys to success in your job search.  You will need to get either one of those collapsible file boxes or a small cabinet. Yes, do keep files on your PC, but, call me old fashioned, but I think a paper based file is easier to use in such circumstances. Especially when you will probably need to have some of the media produced on a job application with you at interview.

Job Search Organisation

Once this has been obtained open a file for every, and I mean every job application you make.  The file should contain everything pertaining to that application.  This would include the following;-

Copy of the advert, agency specification or job description depending on how you received the vacancy information.

A card to note the names of all decision makers you come into contact with, and to record the content of any conversations that take place. For example, if Mr Brown had a cold when you spoke to him today, wouldn’t it stand you in good stead to ask if his cold is better when you speak to him this week? (Unless of course, he sounds like he has the most virulent strain of bird ‘flu going when you call him!). Make a record of your conversations and then use them to your advantage.

Any correspondence.

Any company information you gather during the lifetime  of your application (company brochure, accounts etc). These can be used to good effect as we’ll see later.

Any other media generated by that particular application.

If you follow this method, you will always be able to tell exactly what stage any application is at!  You will have an in depth file on each application, and believe me, in this case information is POWER and it will help your job search using organisation tools like this.