- Your contacts: Having a good contact management system, whether it's an old-fashioned address book or a searchable system on your computer, means you can find phone numbers and addresses more quickly. The job search process is all about networking and follow-up, so if you can't find that address to send a thank-you note or return someone's call, that's not good! Perusing a well-organized contact list also might remind you of more people you know who could help. (Great tips on networking and follow-up here in this previous post, "Organize Your Way to Better Relationships," from my friends who are the experts.)
- Your bills: When money is tight, it's all the more important to keep a closer watch on the bills to make sure they get paid on time. It may be more important than you think– some employers now check your credit rating before hiring you! (See this MSN Money article "How bad credit can cost you a job") Have one place to put the bills when they come in and commit to reviewing and paying them once a week if possible. (More tips here in this previous post: "Top Ten Tips for Paying Your Bills Efficiently.")
- Your files: Organizing your files can help you put your resume together by reminding you of accomplishments and dates of previous employment. Going through this process may also help you find your passport or other identification needed for the first day on the job when you land one.
- Your calendar & task list: An organized calendar used consistently means you will be more likely on time for interviews and informational meetings. Having your calendar synchronized on the web is a great idea in case you need to check your calendar elsewhere unexpectedly. Try Google's easy calendar sync application that works with Microsoft Outlook. Your task list and calendar will also help you make those follow up calls and get those meetings by keeping you on track. Make sure you document your conversations and make note of any actions that are required of you.
- Your first impressions: Walking into a meeting with a polished appearance shows that you are serious, responsible, and professional. Does your briefcase or purse give the right impression? Do you have an organized manner in which to take notes, produce a business card, and store a business card that you've been given? A simple legal pad folio with a business card holder is very helpful to provide these functions during an interview.
Of course, if we are talking about jobs, I wouldn't be doing MY job if I didn't mention that donating what you don't need to Goodwill helps OTHER people find work! One working computer provides over 5 hours of career counseling for someone facing challenges to finding employment. You can use the donation impact calculator at http://donate.goodwill.org to see what your donations of clothing and household items can actually do for the community. And if you need help finding work, Goodwill is there for you, too. Every 45 seconds of each workday, someone earns a job with Goodwill’s help — and you can be next! Here are some great job search tips from Goodwill's website.
Are you looking for a job? What organized systems are helping you in the search? Share in the comments!
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FYI, Illinois just made it unlawful for employers to consider an applicant’s credit history unless certain exemptions apply. Every state will approach this differently, of course.