Can’t remember if you’ve applied with the same company before? Frantically searching for the contact number you scribbled on a slip of paper? Forgot the name of the interviewer you’re meeting? Have no idea how many ads you’ve applied to or how many responded? If so, stay focused and unclutter your mind through diligent record-keeping. By documenting your search, you’ll have a handy reference guide to help you stay in control. Some of the many benefits you’ll derive from a job-search journal:

• Save time and effort.
• Stay organized and efficient.
• Prevent duplication.
• Help you plan your next move.
• Stop repeating old mistakes.
• Avoid embarrassment.

Start your diary
What system to use: The material or format you choose doesn’t really matter. Whether it’s a notebook, a binder, a planner, a software program, or a file cabinet matters less than ensuring your documentation is current, comprehensive and comprehensible. The system that fits your work style will be the best for you.

What to include: A list of some of the important items you need to file.

• Company name / address / profile
• Copies of ads answered
• Deadline for application
• Position applied for and date applied
• Resume and cover letter submitted
• Date of contact with employer
• Contact person’s name and number
• Interview details
• Actions taken and results
• Follow-up activities
• Comments
• Account name and password with job sites

When to record: Enter all crucial information and attach useful documents every time you apply. Soon after an interview, record what had transpired, both good and bad aspects. Where did you flounder? Where did you impress? Plan your succeeding moves, such as when to send a thank-you letter or conduct a follow-up.

When to review: After a few weeks of documenting have passed, go over your journal and ask yourself: Which resume version had the most success in getting employers’ attention? What errors did I keep making and how can I improve? How could I have handled a particular question better? What changes in my strategy should I make?

Religiously logging your every search activity may sound dreary. But for sure, it will pay off by revealing trends and patterns that will help you do better next time.

Closure moves
Once hired, enjoy and celebrate! But know that this does not signal the end of your chronicle project. You have to do two more things in closing.

First, deactivate your searcher account. Why? Your new employer might chance upon your resume online or see your job alert e-mails and erroneously assume you’re still on the lookout.

Finally, inform everyone who helped you in your hunt that you’ve found a job and thank them for their support. It’s always good sense to keep in touch. Who knows, someday you might get the chance to return the favor. Or you might find yourself on the market again and will be glad you have retained your ties with your allies.