Today’s Job Applications
As a Job Seeker, it is important to be prepared for the application process. A significant percentage of companies require the applicant to ‘Create an Account’, which will then include listing a Username and Password, prior to starting an online application. As a result, I highly recommend creating a job search only email. Gmail makes it easy to create an e-mail, which then can be listed on your resume, used as the Username (when creating an application account) and can be used to sign up for Job Boards such as Indeed. Upon creating a new email account, be sure to list a cell phone number (which is optional) and a ‘recovery email address’ (also optional); though these are optional, in the event you need to reset your new email’s Password, it will be important to have an alternative email address and/or phone number listed to assist in resetting that Password.
By creating a job search (only) email, you will save yourself from the inevitable – SPAM emails related to your job search bombarding your personal email account. You will also be less likely to miss an email response from an application submitted, which could be an interview offer. But, if it’s decided that your more comfortable using an existing (personal) email account, be sure the email address is professional and appropriate for your job search.
Knowing online applications often require the Job Seeker to Create an Account, keeping an application ‘log’ is also highly recommended. The log should include: the Username and Password used to apply, date of application, the Company name, location and job title. This information will be helpful if you have to log back into the job application account to make updates, complete an application started but not finished, creates a timeline follow up on previously submitted applications, etc.
Since most employers will correspond via email to applications submitted, it is important to check your email for new correspondence daily (if not several times per week if actively looking for a job). A noteworthy mention: check your email’s SPAM or ‘Junk’ folders, as email responses from employers may accidentally be directed there.
I share this information in hopes of alleviating some of the frustrations I have experienced (early on in my career) and certainly have witnessed in the individuals I’ve worked with, who not yet knew the validity of these few tips… until they knew.