The average job seeker applies to 10–15 companies before receiving an offer. Without a tracking system, you lose track of where you applied, miss follow-up windows, and cannot identify which CV versions are performing. Track every application with our free Job Tracker a Kanban board designed specifically for job searches.
The Kanban Method Applied to Job Searching
Kanban originated in Toyota's manufacturing process and was later adopted by software development (Jira, Trello). The principle is simple: visualise your workflow as columns representing stages, and move items through stages as they progress.
For a job search, the natural column structure is:
- Applied applications sent, awaiting response
- Interview phone screen, technical assessment, or panel interview scheduled or completed
- Offer received an offer, negotiating or deciding
- Rejected closed, either by the company or your own decision
What to Record for Every Application
The Job Tracker captures the essential fields:
- Company and role never lose track of what you applied for
- Application date follow up at exactly 7 days if no response
- Job posting URL postings are removed once a role is filled; save it immediately
- Location / remote status relevant for logistics and negotiation
- Notes salary range mentioned, who referred you, interview notes, next steps
- Follow-up date set a reminder for every application without a clear timeline
The 7-Day Follow-Up Rule
If you have not heard back 7 business days after applying (or after an interview), send a brief follow-up email. Keep it to three sentences: you are still interested, you are following up on your application/interview from [date], and you welcome any updates on timing. Most candidates do not follow up those who do are remembered.
Measuring Your Job Search Performance
Treat your job search as a funnel with measurable conversion rates:
- Application → Interview rate typically 10–20%. If lower, your CV or targeting may need revision
- Interview → Offer rate typically 15–25%. If lower, focus on interview preparation
- Overall offer rate 1–5% of applications is typical in competitive markets
Once you land the role, calculate your new effective rate and use the Freelance Rate Calculator if negotiating a contract position, or the Invoice Generator to bill your first contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many jobs should I apply to per week?
Quality consistently outperforms volume. A tailored application to 5–10 positions per week outperforms mass-applying to 50. LinkedIn's data shows that applications submitted within the first 10 minutes of a posting going live have significantly higher callback rates set up job alerts for your target roles.
Should I apply directly or via LinkedIn / Indeed?
When possible, apply directly on the company's website. Direct applications bypass third-party ATS (Applicant Tracking System) screening layers and often reach the hiring manager faster. Use job boards to discover roles, then apply directly. Save the job posting URL in your tracker immediately listings disappear when the role is filled or paused.
How long should I wait before following up after an interview?
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of any interview. If the interviewer gave a specific timeline ("we'll decide in two weeks"), wait until that date passes before following up. Without a stated timeline, follow up after 5–7 business days with a brief, positive email reaffirming your interest.