Job hunting means keeping track of a lot at once: different job sites, closing dates, contacts, interview dates, follow-ups. When that information is scattered across tabs, inboxes and notebooks, it is easy to miss something. So we made a free Neurodivergent-Friendly Job Application Tracker in Google Sheets to keep it all in one place.
Here is what is in it, how to use it, and how to make it your own. Get your copy of the tracker (you will need a Google account to make a copy).
Why a job application tracker helps
Everything in one place
When you apply through several platforms, it is hard to remember where each application stands. The tracker gives you one place to see every role, its status and what you need to do next, so important details don’t slip through.
Less to hold in your head
Researching roles, tailoring your CV and cover letters, and keeping on top of deadlines all take mental energy. Writing it down in a structured, visual way frees up working memory for the applications themselves. Many neurodivergent people find this kind of external structure makes a big difference.
More sense of control
Job hunting can feel uncertain. Seeing your progress laid out clearly, with deadlines and next steps, can take some of the stress out of it.
What the tracker includes
The template has a column for each of the following:
- Company and contact person, so you know who you are dealing with
- Job title, location (remote, hybrid or on-site) and workplace address if you will be commuting
- Hours and salary, to help you compare roles
- URL of the job advert, for quick access later
- Closing date and days left to apply, so deadlines don’t sneak up on you
- Date applied, date of confirmation and date of latest reply, giving you a clear timeline
- Status, such as in progress, awaiting a response or complete
- Notes and feedback gained, so you can learn from each application
How to use your tracker
1. Make your own copy
Open the link and choose to make a copy. It will save to your own Google Drive, where you can change anything you like.
2. Add each job as you find it
Fill in the details for every role you are interested in, even before you apply. It is a useful shortlist as well as a log.
3. Update the status as you go
Each time you apply, hear back or have an interview, update the row. It only takes a few seconds and keeps the whole picture current.
4. Use the colour coding
The status categories are colour coded, so you can see at a glance where everything stands.
5. Set a regular review time
Pick a regular slot, perhaps once or twice a week, to check deadlines and plan follow-ups. Pairing it with something you already do, like your Monday morning coffee, can make it easier to stick to.
Make it work for you
The template is a starting point, not a rulebook. Add or remove columns, change the colours to ones you like, or add a tab for interview preparation. If you are preparing for interviews, our guides to the STAR interview method and preparing for a virtual interview pair well with it, and you can use our reasonable adjustment request template to ask for what you need.
Job hunting brings rejections as well as successes, and that can be hard. If knock-backs hit you particularly hard, our post on handling job rejection with ADHD and RSD may help. Keeping a note of feedback in your tracker turns each rejection into something useful for next time.
Download the job application tracker
How Enna can help with your job search
Once your tracker is set up, start filling it. Our jobs board lists roles with employers who are committed to neuroinclusion, and you can register for job alerts to get new roles sent straight to you. Before you apply, have a look at our help with your CV page for practical tips on presenting your strengths.
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