Tracking Your Job Applications: Tools to Stay Organised During Relocation

Relocating to a new country or city is an exciting step for your career, but it also brings a whirlwind of tasks—from paperwork and housing to language-learning and networking. In the midst of this transition, keeping your job applications organised is crucial. It’s easy to lose track of CV submissions, interviews, and follow-ups—especially when you’re applying across different platforms, time zones, and cultures. An organised application process doesn’t just save you stress; it helps you spot new trends, respond faster, and present yourself as a focused, reliable candidate. Here’s how to do it, and the best tools to help you succeed.

Disclaimer: Please note that the content of this article is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as personal career counselling. While our team comprises certified career counsellors, the insights presented are generalised and may not apply to every individual’s unique circumstances. We encourage you to seek personalised career counselling for advice tailored to your own situation.

Why Job Application Tracking Matters—Especially When Relocating

During relocation, job-hunting is rarely linear. You might research one market, apply in another, and receive responses at unpredictable times. Without a solid tracking system, you risk:

• Missing interview invitations or important deadlines
  
• Forgetting which CV version you sent to each role
  
• Overlapping commitments or interviews
  
• Losing sight of feedback, recruiter names, or contact info

Staying organised helps you maintain professionalism and ensures you can follow up at the right time—even while navigating the chaos of moving.

Essential Information to Track

Before you pick your tool, identify what to log for each application:

• Company name and contact person
  
• Job title and link to the posting
  
• Date of application and deadline
  
• Which CV/cover letter version you submitted
  
• Status updates: applied, interview stage, offer, follow-up, rejection, etc.
  
• Next action date: when to follow up or expect a response
  
• Notes: feedback, recruiter impressions, salary info, interview questions

Top Tools for Job Application Tracking

1. Spreadsheets (Excel, Google Sheets)

Still a favourite for many! Create a simple table with the categories above. Google Sheets is ideal for relocators—it’s cloud-based, free, and accessible from anywhere.

Tip: Use drop-down menus or color-coding to quickly see which applications are pending, in process, or closed.

2. Dedicated Job Tracking Apps

Teal: A powerful, dedicated platform to manage job searches, with features to track deadlines, follow-ups, and even store job descriptions.

Huntr: Another visual tool for job seekers, offering Kanban-style boards, reminders, and easy saving of postings from Chrome.

JibberJobber: Tracks applications, contacts, companies, and follow-up tasks—ideal for intensive job searches.

3. Project Management Tools (Trello, Notion, Asana)

For those who prefer visual organisation:

Trello: Set up lists for “To Apply,” “Applied,” “Interviewing,” and “Offer/Closed.” Add checklists for each step.

Notion: Build a customised dashboard to combine job tracking, relocation to-dos, and networking in one hub.

Asana: Great for setting reminders and scheduling deadlines for applications and interviews.

4. Email Labels & Folders

If you apply to jobs by email, create dedicated folders or labels for each role or company. Archive all related communications, interview invites, and feedback, so nothing slips through the cracks.

Pro Tips for Staying Efficient

Review Weekly: Set aside 30 minutes each week to update your tracker and review pending tasks.

Back Up Regularly: Whether using cloud tools or files, ensure you back up your data—especially during relocation when devices can be lost or stolen.

Set Calendar Alerts: For crucial deadlines and interviews, use your digital calendar (Google, Outlook) to set reminders.

Final Thoughts

Staying organised transforms your job search from chaos to clarity—especially during the disruptive period of relocation. By tracking every application, you boost your professionalism, reduce anxiety, and empower yourself to make faster, better career decisions. Choose the tools that fit your style and needs, set up your tracker before you move, and review it regularly. With the right systems in place, you’ll navigate your job hunt—and your relocation—with confidence and control.