Why Your Job Search Spreadsheet Is Costing You Interviews (And What to Use Instead)

If you're deep in a job search, you probably have "The Spreadsheet."

It's a familiar sight: Column A for the company, Column B for the role, Column C for the link to the job spec, Column D for the date you applied, and a messy Column E for "Notes."

You started it to feel organised, but now it's a source of anxiety. It's become a digital graveyard of old applications.

• You forget to update it.
• You can't find the link to the original job description.
• You have no idea when you're supposed to follow up.
• You've accidentally applied for the same job twice.

Your spreadsheet isn't an active tool; it's a passive, disorganised list. It isn't helping you manage your job search—it's just a record of your rejections. This manual data entry and lack of intelligent reminders mean you're missing out on vital opportunities to follow up, prepare for interviews, and build relationships.

The Smarter Solution: An Automated Job Application Tracker

A modern job search requires a modern tool. You don't need a "dead" document; you need a "living" assistant. A dedicated job application tracker turns that static list into an automated, intelligent pipeline.

Instead of just recording what you did, it tells you what to do next.

Ditch the Spreadsheet for the VacanCV Job Tracker

Our Job Tracker is the second pillar of the VacanCV integrated hub. It’s designed to replace your spreadsheet and give you back control.

• One-Click Saving: Save jobs from any website and automatically pull in the company, role, and job description.
• Visual Pipeline: Move your applications through stages just like a Trello board: Wishlist -> Applied -> Interviewing -> Offer.
• Automated Reminders: Did you apply 7 days ago and haven't heard back? The tracker will remind you to send a polite follow-up email.
• Integrated with Your CV: Link the exact CV version you used for each application, so you always know what you sent.
• Store Contacts & Notes: Keep track of recruiter names, interview notes, and salary expectations, all in one place.

A disorganised job search leads to missed opportunities. Stop letting applications fall through the cracks.