A job search might become overwhelming and frustrating. There are so many parameters to keep in mind that you may get lost in your quest.

  Finding a new job is a demanding challenge because you need to make decisions that will affect the rest of your life. So, the better you apply a strategy, the more productive your actions will be. 

Personalizing your Job Search

  You may want to create your personalized spreadsheet. The starting point is to create a table per tab. For example, your first table could be key materials, a second one, target institutions-the ones where you would like to work first-, a third one applications, and so on. If you still want things in paper, then a binder with tabs can meet this end perfectly fine, too.

  The key materials table should include a column with items such as resume, CV, cover letter, recommendations, academic portfolio, teaching statement, research plan, teaching assessments, and others.

  In the target institutions tab, create a list of about twenty places where you would like to work. Do your homework researching their websites and get any information that can enrich your resume or CV, interviews, and application process in general.

  The applications tab should list the places where you have applied. Make sure to include the date of application, position, contact information, etc.

   In all cases, it is advisable to add columns that show the progress of your work, for example, ‘not done,' ‘in progress,' and ‘done.'

    Also, keep your actual materials in a separate folder. 

Technological Resources: Online Work Search Tools

• Take advantage of professional sites such as Linkedin to strengthen your networking.
• Use online calendars productively to, for instance, schedule tasks and create job alerts that go straight to your inbox.
• Store a copy of everything in a cloud, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, etc. to have access from anywhere.
• Make your access easy and clear to the spreadsheet and materials from your PC, phone, and tablet.  Consider that you may get a phone call when you are not at home.

   If you want to optimize your work search to make it even more productive, besides an organization method, you may want to consider other more general aspects, such as:

Regular breaks. Taking some time off from what you are doing will help you refresh your mind and regain perspective.

One step at a time. Start with your priorities. Concentrate on one item at a time, so you do not get overwhelmed and anxious for the work you have ahead. This action will also give you the satisfaction of checking out the tasks you cover.

A good night's sleep. Everybody knows the positive effects of sleeping well: especially before an interview, to be alert and focused. 

   Changing little habits in your job search organization will impact your overall quality of work and, ultimately, your life. 

Hispanic Outlook’s Job Board allows applicants to search for jobs by category, by city and by state.  Both Featured and Latest Job Positions are available at https://hispanicoutlookjobs.com/ 

And for employers, Hispanic Outlook’s Job Board offers a wide variety of posting options.  Further information is available at https://hispanicoutlookjobs.com/employer-products/