Job Application Database

The useful distinction

A database is useful when a search needs consistent records and more than one useful view. It should reduce repeated entry instead of hiding simple work behind structure.

The database should serve the job search; the search should not become an exercise in database administration.

A practical workflow

Use the following as a working sequence, then adapt it to the companies and conversations in front of you.

• Model the opportunity before adding related tables
• Use dates and enums for state that needs filtering
• Keep notes and documents discoverable from the main record

Keep the system workable

Keep one clear record for the opportunity, its current stage, the people involved and the next action. That gives you enough structure to return to the search without adding ceremony.

Candidate keeps this context together so a useful update after an application, conversation or exercise does not need to be copied across several tools.