Today’s job hunters have access to a remarkable selection of online and smartphone applications that can make the process easier, more enjoyable, and more rewarding than ever before. The most challenging part of using these applications is deciding which ones to try in the first place. Here, we suggest four impressive applications for managing your job search, making your resume visually appealing, and then sealing the deal with an unexpectedly impressive thank you note. Each application has free or inexpensive options, so experiment and see what works for you.
- Turn your resume into a visually stunning infographic with Vizualize.me
Think the traditional text resume is overdue for a makeover? You’ll love this browser-based application for any web-enabled device, though we recommend starting on a PC or laptop. It’s the most widely used infographics maker for resumes. Vizualize.me automatically turns your education, skills, and experience into a visual representation of your resume, complete with an experience timeline and skills bubble chart. Other infographic elements include treemaps, language maps, and pictograms. You can even log in and automate the process with your LinkedIn account.
- Distinguish your resume with a modern design using VisualCV
First impressions make all the difference with resumes. Recruiters spend less than six seconds deciding whether yours is worth a second look. This app, which you can use on your Android or Apple device, or your personal computer lets you import your resume from your Word file or LinkedIn. Then you can create a customized and polished resume from the design template you choose. Your resume will work in both digital and print formats, and can really make quite an impression in networking settings when printed in color.
- Organize every element of your job search with Jobtrack
Organizing the sheer volume of information compiled and updated during a job search can challenge even the most structured people. This application, which you can set up on your PC or laptop and then access from your phone browser, is like CRM software for your job hunt. You can keep track of your business network, prioritize your jobs, and proactively follow up after interviews. It provides valuable metrics to give you visibility into your progress and show you opportunities for improvement.
- Dominate in the post-interview stage of your job hunt with Felt.
First impressions are important, but final impressions can make the difference when a hiring manager has to decide between two or three highly qualified candidates. In that scenario, a beautifully designed, personalized and realistic-looking faux written note on premium card stock can earn you that “wow” effect at precisely the moment of truth. This Apple or Android app does the design, printing, and snail mailing all for you at just $3.99 per card. You can also use the app to create customized greeting cards for any occasion.
Are there any applications that you currently use and find helpful in your job search? How about any apps that over-promised and under-delivered? Share your experiences and recommendations with Imprimis and your fellow DFW job hunters on Facebook!