Running documents to make a job search easier

I'm still in the midst of job searching and uncertainty. Though I am trying to maintain myself in a cool, calm, collected manner, I have still noted several times that there are things I wish I would have written down to make further job searching easier. ( I have previously covered some general job searching tips for OT students that you may also find useful) Read on for tips that can save you a few headaches.

-Running Documents
There are several documents that you should always have an ongoing copy of (no, not a record of your 5K speeds). I keep my items like this on Google Drive because it is accessible from any computer or my phone, but other cloud storage may work better for you.

Obviously you should have a working resume at all times. If you're really on top of things, you could have a running CV with details of each major project you are part of listed. (I have never needed to provide a CV for a job thus far, but some fellowship-type opportunities request them)

Though it shouldn't take up room on your resume, you should keep a list of your employers' addresses and phone numbers because this is often called for on job applications.

In a similar vein, you'll want to have a running document with contact information for your references. Include phone, email, and mailing address because everyone wants something different.

In OT world, background checks are frequently required, which means you should also keep a record of your own address for the past 7 years or so. (If you hate that idea and want to stay off the grid, keeping your fingerprints to yourself- you're in the wrong field.)

For a serious job search, I keep a list of viable job opportunities. I list out whether there is an active opening, what steps I have taken, and who my contact is at the company. This lets me have 1 place to see where my prospects are, which places are calling me back, and when I last heard from them. If plan A doesn't work out, it's easy to see what other lines are still in the water.

I haven't done this, because I have proven to have widely varied and changing plans, but it might be a good idea to have a working long term plan. In this could be personal goals for how you want to develop as a clinician. Writing these goals down is the first step to making them a reality, and being familiar with your own goals is important in an interview.

Unfortunately, having these documents won't completely streamline your job application process. There have been numerous times when I just want to hand people a few of these papers (or already have) but still have to fill out some repetitive application by hand because every applicant has to fill out the standard form. It's a pet peeve of mine, but not likely to go away anytime soon, so be aware of it.

Good luck to all those searching for jobs! Please feel free to share your helpful hints in the comments below!