Did you know you can get a job faster by using a job application tracker? A job application tracker keeps all your job search information in one place. You’ll easily track who you contacted, what positions you applied for, where you applied, when you applied, and how you did it. With Hardly’s job application tracker, you can even connect specific resumes to applications and track which resumes are performing best for you.

Go to Job Application Tracker
A job application tracker can help you maintain focus

Maintain Your Focus

A job application tracker helps you see the next steps and reminds you when to take them. All your reminders are centralized, keeping you on track.
A job application tracker can help you stay motivated

Enhance Your Motivation

A lack of results can be demotivating. A job application tracker provides the data to adjust your approach for better outcomes, similar to tracking progress in diet and exercise plans.

A job application tracker can help you network

Expand Your Networking

Networking is crucial in job searching. A job application tracker highlights your points of contact for each application, helping you leverage connections. With 80% of jobs filled through networking and 70% of positions never posted publicly, expanding your network is key. Trackers help you remember referrals and connections that might lead to more opportunities aligned with your skills and career goals.

A job application tracker can help you stay on track

Boost Your Accountability

Keeping track of your actions makes it easier to follow through on your search steps. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, accountability encourages you by highlighting the steps you are taking. In a job application tracker, you’ll see progress, like applying to ten jobs in a week or emailing two contacts. These small steps add up to significant changes over time.

Go to Job Application Tracker

Application trackers are invaluable tools for job seekers, offering several key benefits that streamline the search process. They centralize all information, making it easy to track who you contacted, what positions you applied for, where and when you applied, and how you approached each application. They help maintain focus by providing a clear view of your application’s status, the next steps, and reminders, ensuring you never miss a follow-up. Tracking your actions encourages consistency and highlights the progress you’re making, which can be especially motivating during a potentially overwhelming job search. Overall, job application trackers are essential for a structured, focused, and proactive job search strategy.

Check out these other articles:

Want a Promotion? Ditch These Bad Working Habits in 2024

18 Jan 2024

Most of us are our absolute best work selves when we start a new job. Our boss says “jump,” we say “how high.” We show up early, over-prepared, and volunteer for every opportunity for growth. Then a couple of weeks or months go by and naturally as we get more comfortable a few bad habits tend to rear their ugly heads.

Read More »

We know that it’s hard to keep spirits up when you are putting yourself out there. Not to get too personal, but as startup founders, we get told “no” a lot. Here are some ways to gain some extra positivity during your job search.

Job Search Boost

Set Realistic Goals

Sometimes, thinking about the big picture can be daunting. Break down your job search into manageable tasks and set achievable goals. Tackle one day at a time.

Stay Organized to maintain positivity

Stay Organized

Keep track of the applications you’ve sent, responses received, and follow-ups due. This will help you feel in control and see your progress over time. Hardly is building an application tracker to help with this! Sign up to be notified when it is live. 

Keep up your skills to boost your job search

Skill Development

  1. Online courses, research, or workshops can not only make you a more attractive candidate, but boost your confidence overall.

Use Hardly’s free resume builder to quickly edit job details and enhance your new-found skills!

Job Search and Healthy Living

Exercise and Healthy Living

Regular physical activity can significantly improve your mood and reduce stress. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you, whether it’s reading, meditating, or spending time with loved ones. Mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and maintain mental health. Combined with a healthy diet, it can enhance your overall well-being, keeping you energized and positive. 

Networking is the best way to land a job

Networking

This one may not give you a ton of confidence, but connections can speed up your job search substantially. Reconnecting with old colleagues, attending industry meetups, or joining professional groups online can open new opportunities and provide valuable support.

stay on top of your job search

Prepare Thoroughly

For each application or interview, research the company and role extensively. This preparation can boost your confidence, showing you’re well-informed and genuinely interested

Practice Interviews

Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence. Feedback can help improve your performance and reduce anxiety for the real thing. If you need extra help with this, consider seeking support from a career coach or counselor. If you are ready to take the leap, Hardly has plenty of coaches who are eager to help you on your journey.

Positive Affirmations and Small Celebrations

Start your day with positive affirmations or motivational quotes. Reminding yourself of your skills, achievements, and worth can set a positive tone for the day. Celebrate small victories, like getting a callback or even just completing a day’s worth of job applications.

Limit Comparison

We know this is easier said than done, but try to avoid comparing your journey to others’. Everyone’s career path is unique, and comparing can unnecessarily diminish your achievements and confidence.

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Want a Promotion? Ditch These Bad Working Habits in 2024

18 Jan 2024 No Comments

Most of us are our absolute best work selves when we start a new job. Our boss says “jump,” we say “how high.” We show up early, over-prepared, and volunteer for every opportunity for growth. Then a couple of weeks or months go by and naturally as we get more comfortable a few bad habits tend to rear their ugly heads.

Read More »

Most of us are our absolute best work selves when we start a new job. Our boss says “jump,” we say “how high.” We show up early, over-prepared, and volunteer for every opportunity for growth. Then a couple of weeks or months go by and naturally as we get more comfortable a few bad working habits tend to rear their ugly heads. Our transition to remote work probably followed a similar pattern. In fact, we might have developed some new unfortunate habits in the process.

I started forgetting all about my body language during Zoom meetings. Being in a room surrounded by people dressed in business attire commands a certain level of attention. Being alone in my apartment with sweatpants and headphones on is a different vibe. I was catching myself mid-doodle, looking down at my paper, and suddenly remembering I was on camera! I hadn’t made eye contact with the current speaker or given any signs that I was engaged in the conversation in ten minutes. While I had been listening, it looked like I was completely zoned out to my coworkers. Realizing my habit could come off as disrespectful and unprofessional, I knew I had to nip it in the bud.

To save you from having to learn some hard lessons on your own, here are our top 5 bad working habits you need to kick in 2021:

Perfectionism is the enemy of good habits

“Perfectionism is the antithesis of productivity,” said some really wise guy. 

He was right! Let go of meticulously going through the small stuff at the expense of making headway on the project as a whole. Instead, create a comprehensive rough draft where all the content or “meat” of the deliverable is there and then go back and make necessary corrections if time allows. Don’t let your fear of criticism keep you from pulling the trigger. The sooner you send it out, the sooner you can receive feedback, the sooner you can make it better.

Tardiness doesn't pay

One of my New Year’s commitments was to be on time for everything. Showing up when you are supposed to says you value your time and the time of others which can be hugely important in business since time is money. 

To avoid being late to any Zoom calls, set the alert for 5-10 minutes before the actual meeting so that you have time to go to the bathroom, close out of your email, or get a glass of water before it begins. Shoot for sitting in front of your computer with a smile on your face one minute before the start time.

Overpromising is a habit that will catch up to you

I am definitely guilty of this one. With good intentions, my default is to say “yes, yes, yes” to everything forgetting that I only have time for so much work. While setting boundaries might be difficult at first, it is better than disappointing others when you have to admit you bit off more than you could chew. Instead, set realistic expectations from the beginning and if you finish early, reach out and offer to take on more.

Tunnel focus is bad

Laser focus is a valuable skill however, in virtual work environments being accessible via online platforms is key. Coworkers rely on email and Slack to let you know they require your attention. Tuning everything out and working in isolation is not an option— and is definitely a bad working habit. Deeply focusing on one task for an extended period of time can cause you to miss time-sensitive messages from others on your team. You don’t want to be the one that people can never get a hold of. 

Prevent this by placing a time limit on your tunnel vision and scheduling email, Slack, and phone checks a couple of times per day so that you are attuned to all your tasks in the background.

Resisting new processes or software

Even if a change is for the better, there is always a learning curve. Being a stick-in-the-mud and unwilling to adapt is a sure way to make yourself obsolete. Don’t be the team member that is looking backward rather than forwards. Instead, take on a positive attitude and welcome the opportunity to add a new skill to your repertoire and resume. Just think, it will make you more competitive in the long run!

If you and I can ditch these bad working habits, we will be sure to excel in our current positions. Not to mention, our coworkers and bosses will thank us for being productive, punctual, honest, aware, and adaptable. Let us know if there are other bad habits you intend to improve this year and share your plan of attack!

You may also like…

Want to pursue a lucrative career in 2024? There is a good chance that you will be hired if you pursue any of these 10 careers— all of which pay over $100,000. These are the fast-growing careers where hiring is most urgent and growth is most rapid. This data is sourced from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, so you know it’s legit.

Software Developer

  • Projected Increase: 26%
  • Average Salary: $120K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor’s Degree
Software Developer

A software developer’s job is to design, develop, test and deploy computer software. They may work on a variety of projects, from developing new applications to maintaining and improving existing ones. A software developer must have strong problem-solving and technical skills, as well as be able to work effectively in a team.

This job also has the advantage of being highly entrepreneurial. So if you are thinking about freelancing for most of your career, being a software developer is a good option. This will continue to be on the fast-growing career list for the foreseeable future.

Medical and Health Services Manager

  • Projected Increase: 28.3%
  • Average Salary: $101K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor’s Degree
Medical and Health Services Manager

The Medical and Health Services Manager career offers the security and money of a medical career, but is also ideal for those who prefer to work at a desk that is far away from sick people.  You will be responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating healthcare providers’ business activities.

Your days will be filled with pushing papers in the medical office and meeting with doctors, but you’ll still have time to cash your $101K salary check at the bank.

Financial Manager

  • Projected Increase: 16.8%
  • Average Salary: $132K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor’s Degree

A financial manager is responsible for the financial wellbeing of their organization. They create financial plans, direct investment activities, and oversee financial risk management. Financial managers work in a variety of industries, including banking, insurance, accounting, and financial planning.

 

The role of a financial manager is not a new fast-growing career, and most of this increased need is due to people retiring or leaving the workforce. 

Nurse Practitioner

  • Projected Increase: 45.7%
  • Average Salary: $121K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Master's Degree
Nurse Practitioner Career

The “hero career” is no surprise to remain in the fast-growing careers for 2024. You’ll bring home $121K per year and be recognized for saving lives. Nursing practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and midwives are all known as advanced practice registered nurses. Their responsibilities include coordinating patient care and providing primary and specialty care.

Prepare yourself for companies to start chasing you once you get your Master’s degree, but don’t get too excited! There is one more step to complete—obtaining your state’s license and APRN certification.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

  • Projected Increase: 16.2%
  • Average Salary: $159K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's Degree
Information Career

The job of a computer and information systems manager is to plan, organize, and coordinate the activities of workers who design, develop, test, and maintain computer software and systems. They also oversee the installation of new systems and ensure that existing systems are compatible with new software and hardware. In addition, computer and information systems managers consult with other departments to ensure that their computer system needs are met.

You can work in a variety of different industries— including government, education, or private businesses. To read more about being a Computer and Information Systems Manager, check out this article from Chron.

Prepare yourself for companies to start chasing you once you get your Master’s degree, but don’t get too excited! There is one more step to complete—obtaining your state’s license and APRN certification.

Health Specialties Teacher

  • Projected Increase: 24.1%
  • Average Salary: $102K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Professional Degree or Doctorate
Health Specialties Teacher

Health Specialties Teachers’ job is to instruct various subjects like human anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology to healthcare students. They also prepare students for their future roles in the healthcare field. 

The majority of health specialty teachers are employed by colleges or universities. Some of them, however, work in medical hospitals, trade schools, or junior colleges. Additional licenses and certifications may be required based on the field you teach in.

Information Security Analyst

  • Projected Increase: 34.7%
  • Average Salary: $103K
  • Typical Entry-Level Education: Bachelor's Degree
Information Security Analyst Career

This job is also called the “White Hat Hacker” job and reminds us of all those hacking scenes in movies. Information Security Analysts are responsible for the overall security of an organization’s information systems. 

They work to identify and mitigate security risks, and are responsible for developing and implementing security policies and procedures. Information security analysts must have a strong understanding of computer networks and systems, and must be able to think critically to identify and resolve security issues.

Bonus! Here are some other high-growth careers:

  • Marketing Managers
  • Sales Managers
  • Veterinarians
  • Human Resource Managers
  • Dentists
  • Pharmacists
  • Computer Network Architects
  • Computer and Information Research Scientists
  • Industrial Production Managers 
  • Electronics Engineers

How do you know which of these is the best career for you?

All of the jobs on this list pay well, but you shouldn’t choose one of these careers solely because of the paycheck. Sign up for a free Hardly account today and you can use our tools and assessments to understand what you need and want in your career. Want to take it up a notch? You can chat with one of our coaches, who will be able to guide you through understanding yourself in the context of your career. 

It is your life and your career that you will invest much time and energy into. A rewarding career choice will give you energy, passion, and joy.

Hey there! If you’re diving into the tech world and need to whip up a resume that rocks, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to make your resume stand out:

1. Keep It Simple and Straightforward

Tech folks love things clear and concise. Your resume should be easy to skim, with no fluff. Stick to bullet points for your skills and achievements, and keep your sentences snappy.

2. Flaunt Those Tech Skills

Your tech skills are your superpowers. Don’t just say you’re into programming; name the specific languages you’re good at, like Python or Java. The more specific, the better!

3. Show Off Your Projects

In tech, what you’ve built says a lot. Got some cool projects? Flaunt them! Add links to your GitHub, personal site, or any live demos you’ve got.

4. Numbers Make You Shine

Got some achievements? Quantify them! Saying “Boosted website speed by 30%” sounds way more impressive than just “improved website performance.” This can make your tech resume stand out. 

5. Your Work Experience Counts

List your jobs, but keep it relevant to tech. If you’re new to the game, any internships or even volunteer gigs where you flexed your tech muscles will help.

Need help making your non-tech jobs relevant? Use Hardly’s free resume builder to quickly edit job details to highlight tech-related skills. Suddenly, that retail job can focus on how you were detail oriented. 

6. Education and Certifications Matter Too

Talk about your highest education level, and if you’ve got tech-related certifications or courses, definitely include those. They show you’re constantly leveling up your skills.

7. Make It Job-Specific

One size doesn’t fit all. Tweak your tech resume for each job you apply for. Match it up with the job description to sneak past those pesky automated resume filters. Hardly’s free resume builder template is guaranteed to be ATS friendly and you can optimize your resume to a specific job description in seconds!

8. Show 'Em Who You Are

Add a personal touch with a brief professional summary at the top of your tech resume. It’s like your own mini-ad for why you’re awesome for the job.

9. Use Handy Online Tools

There’s a bunch of online resume builders and templates out there, especially for tech resumes. They can save you a ton of time and make sure your resume looks slick. Interested in trying one out? Conveniently, we have an awesome one: Check out Hardly’s free resume builder.

Remember, your resume is just the starting point. It’s your foot in the door, but you gotta back it up with solid skills and a great chat in the interview. Keep updating your resume as you level up your skills, and always give it that special touch for each job you’re after. You’ve got this! 🚀

 

If you want a way to shortcut your resume to success, use Hardly’s free resume builder. In a few minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping resume that is ready for any ATS. You can also check out our recent article on resume writing tips here. 

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Want a Promotion? Ditch These Bad Working Habits in 2024

18 Jan 2024 No Comments

Most of us are our absolute best work selves when we start a new job. Our boss says “jump,” we say “how high.” We show up early, over-prepared, and volunteer for every opportunity for growth. Then a couple of weeks or months go by and naturally as we get more comfortable a few bad habits tend to rear their ugly heads.

Read More »

In the ever-evolving landscape of job applications, adapting to the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have become an integral part of the hiring process, streamlining recruitment and helping employers find the best-fit candidates efficiently. As we step into 2024, it’s essential to understand the latest strategies for optimizing your resume to stand out in the digital crowd.

Understanding ATS Technology:

Applicant Tracking Systems use sophisticated algorithms to scan, analyze, and rank resumes based on specific criteria set by employers. In 2024, these systems are likely to become even more advanced, emphasizing the importance of tailoring your resume to align with their requirements.

Keyword Optimization:

Keywords play a pivotal role in ATS success. As technology evolves, so do the keywords relevant to specific industries and roles. Stay updated on industry trends, buzzwords, and the latest terminologies. Incorporate these keywords naturally, ensuring a seamless integration that mirrors the language used in job descriptions. Hardly’s resume builder helps ensure that you have the right keywords where it counts.

Formatting Matters:

While a visually appealing resume is important, ATS primarily looks for well-organized and cleanly formatted documents. Stick to simple, professional templates with standard fonts. Avoid graphics, charts, and elaborate designs, as these can confuse the ATS algorithms and hinder your resume’s chances of being parsed correctly.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Application:

One-size-fits-all resumes are a thing of the past. In 2024, customization is key. Tailor your resume for each job application by emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role. This not only enhances your chances with ATS but also captures the attention of hiring managers who may review your application after the initial digital screening. 

Need help with this? Use Hardly’s free resume builder to quickly edit your resume for a specific job description. 

Quantify Achievements:

ATS algorithms are becoming more adept at recognizing quantitative data. Instead of listing generic job responsibilities, focus on quantifiable achievements and results. Use numbers and percentages to highlight your impact in previous roles, providing concrete evidence of your contributions.

Include Relevant URLs:

In a tech-savvy job market, including URLs to your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or online portfolio can add depth to your application. These links not only provide additional context but also offer the ATS a more comprehensive view of your professional persona.

Optimize for Mobile:

As mobile devices continue to dominate internet usage, it’s essential that your resume is mobile-friendly. Use simple, legible fonts and avoid complex formatting that may not translate well on smaller screens. This optimization ensures that your resume is accessible to recruiters on various devices. Hardly’s free resume builder template is guaranteed to be ATS friendly. 

As we step into 2024, the job market is set to become more competitive, and understanding how to navigate ATS is crucial. By staying informed about the latest trends in optimization, you can increase your chances of making it through the digital gatekeepers and securing the opportunities you deserve. Remember, it’s not just about impressing humans anymore; it’s about impressing the algorithms first.

 

If you want a way to shortcut your resume to success, use Hardly’s free resume builder. In a few minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping resume that is ready for any ATS. You can also check out our recent article on resume writing tips here. 

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Want a Promotion? Ditch These Bad Working Habits in 2024

18 Jan 2024 No Comments

Most of us are our absolute best work selves when we start a new job. Our boss says “jump,” we say “how high.” We show up early, over-prepared, and volunteer for every opportunity for growth. Then a couple of weeks or months go by and naturally as we get more comfortable a few bad habits tend to rear their ugly heads.

Read More »

If you’re feeling stuck in your career or unsure of your next steps, career coaching may be the solution you need. A career coach can help you identify your strengths, set achievable goals, and develop a plan to reach them. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of career coaching and why you should consider it for your professional development.

Understand your Strengths and Weaknesses

Identify your strengths and weaknesses.

One of the key benefits of career coaching is the ability to identify your strengths and weaknesses. A career coach can help you assess your skills, personality traits, and work style to determine what you excel at and where you may need improvement. Also, this self-awareness can be invaluable in setting career goals and making decisions about your professional development. Additionally, a career coach can help you develop strategies to overcome any weaknesses and leverage your strengths to achieve success in your career.

Set Achievable Goals

Set achievable goals and create a plan to reach them.

Another benefit of career coaching is the ability to set achievable goals and create a plan to reach them. A career coach can help you identify your long-term career aspirations and break them down into smaller, more manageable goals. They can also help you create a plan of action to achieve those goals, including identifying any necessary skills or resources you may need along the way. With a clear plan in place, you can stay focused and motivated as you work towards your career objectives. 

 

Want to start now? Check out our 5 Strategies for Career Success.

Career coaching to improve networking

Improve your communication and networking skills.

Career coaching can also help you improve your communication and networking skills, which are essential for success in any industry. A career coach can provide guidance on how to effectively communicate with colleagues, clients, and superiors, as well as how to build and maintain professional relationships. They can also help you identify networking opportunities and provide strategies for making meaningful connections in your industry. By improving your communication and networking skills, you can enhance your professional reputation and open up new opportunities for career growth.

Gain Confidence and Overcome Self Doubt

Gain confidence and overcome self-doubt.

One of the biggest benefits of coaching is gaining confidence and overcoming self-doubt. A career coach can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, and provide guidance on how to leverage your strengths to achieve your goals. They can also help you address any limiting beliefs or negative self-talk that may be holding you back. By building your confidence and overcoming self-doubt, you can approach your career with a positive mindset and achieve greater success.

Career Coaching for Transitions

Navigate career transitions and make informed decisions.

Career coaching can also be incredibly helpful during times of transition, such as when you are considering a career change or starting a new job. A career coach can provide guidance on how to navigate these transitions, including identifying transferable skills and exploring new career paths. They can also help you make informed decisions by providing objective feedback and helping you weigh the pros and cons of different options. With the support of a career coach, you can feel more confident and empowered to make the best decisions for your career. 


If you are thinking about leaving your job, check out 10 Signs It’s Time To Leave Your Job

See for yourself! Sign up for a coaching session today

Ready to take your career to the next level? Purchase coaching session credits today. Credits never expire and can be redeemed with any of Hardly’s coaches. 

Purchase Coaching Credits

Career development is an important factor in your overall success and well-being. Whether you’re looking to change career paths, level up in your current job, or just gain new skills, here are five tips to help you plan a successful journey of career growth.

1

Set Clear Goals

Having clearly defined goals is an essential part of career development success. Outline the type of job and position you want to achieve, as well as any learning objectives and skills you need to accomplish along the way. Setting effective performance and professional goals will help you stay on track and improve your chances of success. Break down these goals into SMART objectives (i.e., specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, timely), so that they are manageable and achievable. 

2

Short and Long-Term Career Planning​

Short-term and long-term career planning can help you understand what you need to do each day and how to achieve your professional goals. Use tools such as networking, career action plans, training and development plans, or job shadowing to get an understanding of how your goals can be achieved in both the short-term and long-term. Building strong relationships with professionals who have knowledge of the clearances you need or information about specific job openings is also key for career advancement.

3

Enhance Your Learning and Education​

Staying up to date with the latest trends and knowledge in your chosen industry is an important component of successful career development. Read books, attend seminars and conferences, take professional education classes online or at nearby colleges, and/or join a professional association. These activities can help you keep up with changes in your field, stay current with best practices, show potential employers that you are willing to go the extra mile to acquire new skills, and make connections within the industry.

4

Establish Professional Connections & Networks​

Networking is an important part of career development, as it can help you make contacts in the industry, open doors to new opportunities, and keep your skills sharp. You can meet other professionals at conferences and events or join a professional or alumni organization. Connecting with peers and mentors online through social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can also be beneficial. Additionally, participating in online forums and discussions related to your industry can help establish yourself as a thought leader.

Hardly’s events are an excellent way to meet other people! You never know which workshop could give you the right connection to launch your career forward. Also, if you are hunting for a new job, here are some resume tips for you.

career development
5

Search for Mentors & Role Models

Identifying role models and mentors is a great way to learn from the success of others. Mentors are people you can look up to, admiring their achievements, while learning from their experiences. Observing or talking with them can provide insight on how they’ve achieved success in their fields and help you find your own personal approach. Additionally, mentors can be powerful advocates who will champion you and your career aspirations.

Check out Hardly’s career coaches to get expert guidance!