Tracker Ten for Jobs help

Introduction

Job postings can be found on numerous sites including Indeed, Monster, WellFound and individual company websites.  Manually keeping track of your applications can be time consuming and cumbersome.  Using Tracker Ten for Jobs you can easily maintain a record of all the places you’ve applied.  When you are called for an interview, you can quickly see the original job description and any other details you’ve entered like job position, location and salary.

The app is divided into three sections.  On the resume tab you can enter your resume and other details that may be needed to apply for a job. On the apply to job tab you can enter details about the job you are applying to and automatically create cover letters.  On the history tab you can see a list of jobs you've applied to, along with the status of each application.

Resume Tab


On this tab you can enter your resume and personal details.  You only need to add this information if you would like to use the automatic cover letter generation features in the software.  To add your resume simply drag and drop it into the resume area, or press “Select Resume”.  Resumes may be added in text, Microsoft Word or PDF format.

If you would like to remove a resume from the system, press the “Clear Resume” button.

You can use the other fields on this tab to enter other details that may be included in a cover letter, like your name, address and other contact information.

Apply to Job Tab


On the apply to job tab, you can add information about the job you are applying too.  You can also use our AI powered cover letter creator to automatically create a cover letter for the job. 

You can cut and paste directly into any of the fields.  The easiest way to enter the job description is to simply copy it from your web browser, and use the “Paste Job Description” button to add the description in the job description area.

Cover Letter Generation

Our optional automatic cover letter generator takes your resume and personal details along with the job description to draft a custom cover letter you can include with your application.  Please note you should always review generated cover letters for accuracy, and it’s always a good idea to add a few more personal details to AI generated letters.

Please note this feature requires an optional subscription, available for purchase in the Microsoft store.

History Tab


On the history tab you can see a list of jobs you’ve applied too, along with a status for each job.  You may assign the following job statuses to a job:

  • Pending – a job you’ve added but haven’t applied to yet.
  • Applied – a job you’ve applied too.
  • Interview Scheduled – a job where you have received and scheduled an interview.
  • Interview Complete – a job where you have completed an interview.
  • Rejected – a job which send you a rejection.
  • Declined – a job you applied for but declined.
  • On the bottom of the history list, you can filter jobs using date ranges, statuses and keywords.

Tips For a Good Resume

1. Keep It Concise

  • Limit your resume to one or two pages (unless you have 10+ years of experience, in which case two pages is fine).

  • Be clear and concise with your language. Avoid long paragraphs and opt for bullet points to make your resume easy to skim.

2. Tailor It to the Job

  • Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight the skills, experience, and accomplishments that are most relevant to the specific role.

  • Use the same language or keywords from the job description when possible to align with the employer’s needs.

3. Start with a Strong Summary or Objective

  • Include a professional summary or objective statement at the top, offering a snapshot of your skills and career goals. This should be 2-3 lines summarizing your expertise.

  • Focus on how you can add value to the employer rather than just stating what you’re looking for.

4. Emphasize Relevant Skills and Achievements

  • Skills section: List relevant skills (both technical and soft) such as software proficiency, communication, leadership, or problem-solving.

  • Accomplishments: Use action verbs and quantify your achievements (e.g., "Increased sales by 25%" or "Managed a team of 10 people").

5. Use Action Verbs

  • Action verbs make your resume more dynamic. Use words like “led,” “designed,” “improved,” “managed,” “created,” and “achieved.”

  • This conveys that you’re a proactive, results-oriented candidate.

6. Focus on Results and Impact

  • Rather than just listing responsibilities, focus on the impact you had in previous roles. Show how you contributed to the success of a project or organization.

  • Include quantifiable results when possible (e.g., “boosted productivity by 20%” or “reduced costs by 15%”).

7. Professional Formatting

  • Keep your resume neat and easy to read. Use a clean layout with consistent fonts and headings.

  • Choose a simple, professional font (e.g., Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman) and ensure there is enough white space.

8. Highlight Education and Certifications

  • List your education starting with the most recent degree, including the degree name, school, and graduation date.

  • Include relevant certifications or professional development courses that align with the job.

9. Include Links to Your Work (if applicable)

  • If applicable, include links to your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or other relevant online work (like GitHub for developers or a personal website).

  • Make sure these links are up-to-date and polished.

10. Proofread for Errors

  • Grammar and spelling mistakes can make a bad impression, so always proofread your resume several times.

  • It can be helpful to have someone else review it too to catch anything you might have missed.

11. Avoid Irrelevant Information

  • Personal information like your age, marital status, or social security number is generally unnecessary.

  • Avoid including hobbies unless they directly relate to the job or show something unique about you (like leadership in sports or creativity in art).

12. Optimize for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)

  • Many companies use ATS software to scan resumes before a recruiter sees them. To increase the chances of your resume passing through, use standard job titles and keywords from the job description.

  • Avoid using too many graphics, as ATS may not be able to read them properly.

Top Places To Find a Job Posting

Finding the right job requires knowing where to look. Here are some of the top places to help you in your job search:

1. Job Boards and Websites

  • LinkedIn: LinkedIn is not just for networking; it’s a powerful job search tool. Many companies post job openings, and you can apply directly through the platform.

  • Indeed: One of the largest job search engines, Indeed aggregates listings from various sources, including job boards, company websites, and staffing agencies.

  • Glassdoor: Glassdoor offers not only job listings but also company reviews, salary information, and interview tips, making it a great tool to research companies before applying.

  • Monster: Monster has been around for years and still provides a vast array of job listings, resume-building tools, and career advice.

  • SimplyHired: This is another job search engine that aggregates listings from a wide variety of sources and offers salary data.

  • ZipRecruiter: ZipRecruiter posts jobs and also sends notifications when a recruiter views your resume, which helps speed up the process.

2. Industry-Specific Websites

  • AngelList: If you're looking for a job in tech or startups, AngelList is a fantastic platform where you can find positions in emerging companies.

  • Hired: A job marketplace tailored for tech professionals. Hired allows companies to reach out to you, making it a great platform if you're in software development, engineering, or related fields.

  • Dribbble and Behance: These platforms are specifically tailored for creative professionals, like designers and artists, who want to showcase their portfolios and connect with companies.

  • Idealist: Idealist specializes in nonprofit jobs, volunteer opportunities, and internships, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to work in social impact or the public sector.

3. Company Websites

  • Targeted Applications: If you have companies in mind that you want to work for, check their careers pages regularly. Many companies post job openings on their own websites before posting them elsewhere.

  • Major companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and others often have dedicated career pages with detailed listings and easy application processes.

4. Recruitment Agencies and Staffing Firms

  • Robert Half, Kelly Services, and Adecco are some of the biggest staffing agencies. These agencies can help place you in temporary, contract, or permanent roles based on your skills and experience.

  • Specialized Recruiters: Some agencies specialize in specific industries, like tech, healthcare, or finance, so they can match you with jobs in your field of expertise.

5. Networking

  • LinkedIn: Beyond job listings, LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools for networking. Connecting with professionals, joining relevant groups, and engaging in discussions can often lead to job opportunities.

  • Professional Associations: Many industries have associations or groups that host networking events, career fairs, and job boards for their members.

  • Local Meetups: Attend industry meetups, conferences, or professional events in your area. You never know where a job lead might come from.

  • Personal Connections: Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth. Let friends, family, and colleagues know you’re job hunting. Sometimes the best opportunities come from connections you already have.

6. Social Media

  • Twitter: Follow industry leaders, companies, and job boards. Many businesses post openings on their Twitter accounts or retweet jobs shared by others.

  • Facebook: Many companies share job postings on their company pages, and some regions have Facebook groups dedicated to job seekers.

  • Reddit: Subreddits like r/ForHire and r/jobs often have job postings, especially for remote work or freelance gigs. Other niche subreddits for your industry might have job leads too.

7. University Career Centers (If Applicable)

  • Many universities offer career services to students and alumni, including job boards, resume help, interview coaching, and networking opportunities. Check with your school’s career center to see what resources they provide.

8. Freelance and Remote Work Platforms

  • Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr: If you’re open to freelancing or contract work, these platforms offer a wide variety of opportunities across many fields, including tech, design, writing, marketing, and more.

  • We Work Remotely and Remote.co: These platforms are specifically dedicated to remote job listings, making them perfect if you're looking to work from home.

9. Job Fairs and Career Expos

  • In-Person Job Fairs: Many cities hold job fairs where companies and recruitment agencies come together to meet potential candidates. These events allow you to apply directly and meet with hiring managers.

  • Virtual Job Fairs: Many organizations have switched to virtual job fairs, where you can attend sessions, chat with recruiters, and submit your resume online.

10. Government Websites

  • In many countries, government-run job boards list public sector jobs, internships, and opportunities with various government agencies. In the U.S., for example, USAJobs.gov lists federal positions.

By using these resources, you’ll be able to cast a wide net and find job opportunities that are a great match for your skills and experience. Good luck with your job search!

Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Writing an effective cover letter is a key part of your job application. It’s your opportunity to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and qualifications in a way that complements your resume. Here's a step-by-step guide to writing a cover letter that will grab the employer’s attention:

1. Start with a Strong Header

  • Your Name & Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable).

  • Employer's Details: Under your information, list the hiring manager’s name, job title, company name, and company address.

Example:

Jane Doe
123 Main Street | City, State 12345 | (123) 456-7890 | jane.doe@email.com
[LinkedIn Profile URL]

Hiring Manager
XYZ Corp.
456 Business Road
City, State 67890

2. Create a Compelling Introduction

  • Be Direct: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs attention.

  • Mention the Job: State the specific job you are applying for.

  • Personal Connection: If possible, reference how you learned about the position or mention any personal connections to the company.

Example: "I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Corp. I’ve been following your innovative campaigns for years and am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills in digital marketing to your team."

3. Showcase Your Qualifications

  • Align with the Job Description: Focus on a few key qualifications or experiences that match the job description. Use bullet points or short paragraphs to make it easy for the reader to see why you’re a great fit.

  • Use Specific Examples: Provide concrete examples of your skills, experience, and achievements. If possible, quantify your results (e.g., "increased sales by 25%" or "managed a team of 10").

Example:

    "With over 5 years of experience in digital marketing, I have honed my ability to create data-driven strategies that drive measurable results. For example:

  • Led a campaign that increased website traffic by 40% in 6 months.

  • Managed a social media strategy that grew engagement by 30%. These experiences have prepared me to contribute effectively to your marketing efforts at XYZ Corp."

4. Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm

  • Express Genuine Interest: Show why you’re excited about the role and the company. Focus on what excites you about the opportunity and how your values align with the company’s mission or culture.

Example: "I am particularly drawn to XYZ Corp. because of your commitment to sustainable marketing practices. As someone who is passionate about environmentally conscious business practices, I would love to contribute to your efforts in promoting green initiatives."

5. Conclude with a Strong Closing Statement

  • Reaffirm Your Interest: Restate your excitement about the position.

  • Call to Action: Invite the employer to contact you for an interview. Express your willingness to discuss your qualifications further.

  • Thank Them: Thank the reader for considering your application.

Example: "I would love the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can contribute to the success of XYZ Corp. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you."

6. Sign Off Professionally

  • Use a formal closing like “Sincerely,” followed by your name.

Example:

Sincerely,
Jane Doe

Other tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter:

  1. Tailor It to the Job: Each cover letter should be customized for the specific job and company. Avoid sending a generic cover letter.

  2. Keep It Concise: Limit your cover letter to one page. Employers are busy and will appreciate brevity.

  3. Avoid Repeating Your Resume: Don’t just summarize your resume; instead, focus on specific skills or experiences that make you stand out.

  4. Use Keywords: Use keywords from the job description to show you're aligned with the company’s needs and values.

  5. Be Professional, but Show Personality: Maintain a professional tone but don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm and personality. The goal is to let the hiring manager get a sense of who you are beyond your resume.

  6. Proofread: Make sure your cover letter is free of grammatical and spelling errors. It’s always a good idea to have someone else review it before sending.

Purchase

The free version of the application is limited to 10 job applications. To enter additional applications please purchase a monthly subscription at the Microsoft Store.