Job Search Checklist: Everything to Do Before You Apply
·CVCircuit Team
The preparation you do before submitting your first application determines the quality of every application that follows. Spending a focused few days on this checklist before you start applying will produce better results than jumping straight into applications.
Documents and Profiles
- CV updated, ATS-optimised, and saved as a master version
- Two or three tailored CV versions ready for your primary target role types
- LinkedIn profile updated with current role, skills, and summary
- LinkedIn "Open to Work" configured for recruiter visibility (not public, if currently employed)
- Reference list prepared with names, contact details, and a note on each relationship
- Any portfolio, GitHub, or personal website updated with current work
Target Definition
- Two to three specific target role types defined (not just "something in marketing")
- Target sectors identified
- Seniority level and career stage defined
- Geography, commute tolerance, and remote preference defined
- Salary floor and total package expectations defined
- Any non-negotiables identified (industry, company size, values)
Tracking Infrastructure
- Job tracker set up (spreadsheet, CVCircuit, or dedicated tool)
- Tracker fields include: company, role, date applied, source, status, next action, contact name, salary range, notes
- First application ready to add as entry one
Search Infrastructure
- Job alerts configured on LinkedIn, Reed, Indeed, and sector-specific boards
- Target companies identified with career pages bookmarked
- Key recruiters in your space identified and initial outreach sent
- Professional network notified (selectively and professionally) that you are looking
Mindset and Process
- Realistic timeline expectation set (weeks to months, not days)
- Weekly application target defined
- Weekly tracker review scheduled
- Support system in place (peer job seeker group, coach, mentor, or simply a trusted colleague)
Build your CV free at CVCircuit — the first item on this checklist — and track every application from there.