Job search is a job by itself. This means that you should work in an organized way to achieve your goals. You should keep track of your applications, follow-ups and networking activities. This will help you not to miss an opportunity and make mistakes, such as applying twice for the same role, but through different channels.
Here are the five lists every job seeker needs:
1. The List of Potential Employers
Write down companies in your area of expertise. This will make your search more targeted. There is a lot of information on the Internet, starting with Google Maps, social media or online news/magazines.
Once you have identified potential employers, it will be much easier to focus your networking efforts. Take the time to research and find the company you want to work for that fits your culture.
2. The List of Your Applications
You must keep track of all your job applications and channels. An open role can be published on more platforms/channels, and it is a waste of time to apply for a job twice or more.
Remember to add to the list of open roles that you have heard or read about and where you will apply later.
Add to the list, if you have been invited for an interview and indicate the date. You can sometimes analyse whether the potential employer's response was quick or whether you are more of a Plan B.
Follow-ups after sending the application or after the interview should also be included in this list.
3. The List of Your Connections
Many job seekers do not keep this kind of list and many of their networking efforts are random. Networking without a strategy is a waste of time.
Start with making a list of people you know personally or professionally. Afterwards. your focus will move to online platforms, where you will identify people who work at companies, you’re interested in.
There are plenty of channels for application, so you never know where your next job will come from.
4. The List of Interview Questions
Not everyone feels comfortable with interview questions. There are standard questions like "Tell me about yourself", "Why do you want to work in our company", etc. and there are difficult ones.
Make a list of your answers and practice them. Remember to be authentic and not lie about yourself. Recruiters will know if you are getting "ideal" answers from the Internet.
5. The List of Questions to Ask the Interviewer
Usually you have the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview or even during the process. This is not an embellishment of the interviewer, but a necessary step to see if you are interested in the role or the corporate culture.
Ask a list of questions about the role, management, assessments or corporate culture. There is another blog post of mine with extensive information and suggestions on this topic.
If you keep these lists for your job search, you are one step closer to success.