Bullet journaling.

As something of a stationery junkie, I’ve been seeing bullet journaling everywhere over the last year. I’m not exaggerating: there are bullet journaling Facebook groups with almost 60,000 members; over 234,792 Instagram posts referencing the phenomenon, and even the Wall Street Journal recently ran an article on what they called the “tech savvy to-do list.”

Thing is, it’s not tech savvy at all – bullet journaling is entirely analog. The system, which uses just a notebook and a pen, is deceptively simple to start, but can become quite complex. It is also entirely customizable and extremely useful when trying to organize yourself and your work. From health overhauls to massive works projects, bullet journaling has helped people make big changes and achieve major goals.

But can a bullet journal actually help you find a job? Yes, if you use it right. Here are five bullet journal hacks that can help you get your job hunt on track, by getting it down on paper.

Write down your goals, and check back often

Setting clear goals helps motivate and direct your actions so that you can consciously move towards your desired result. Making those goals visible is one of the best ways to keep them top of mind, which means you’ll be better able to structure your life in ways that will help you reach them.

Dedicate a space in your journal for goals and objectives, but make sure they are front and centre. This can be on your index page, or written where you keep your appointments listed; there’s no right or wrong answer. The idea is to make sure you keep seeing them. When it comes to job searching, make sure you include what you’re aiming for in your next position and where you want to be going – then go out there and get it.

Track the jobs you’re applying for

Add a section for tracking job prospects. Include things like job title, company, posting #, application deadline, and status (applied, interviewed, etc.). This is also a great place to note any research or key points about the job or company. What’s the company’s mission/vision? Anything else that you’ll want to have handy when you’re getting ready for your interview?

To help you prepare for future interviews, it’s also a good idea to create a page for each job you interview for. This will allow you to review past notes, research, and questions, and dig a little deeper for interview preparation.

Create a habit tracker

Habit tracking is an awesome way to build habits. People use it for all kinds of things (exercise, diet, meditation, chores…) but you’ll be using it specifically to keep track of career and job search habits.

Looking for a new job can almost be a full-time job, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Decide on what kind of daily, weekly, or monthly actions you want to take, and create a grid to track your progress.

Some possibilities include: checking job boards daily, attending networking events, setting up meetings, applying for jobs… anything you know you need to be doing regularly to keep yourself moving forward in the process.

Use your calendar

I’ve heard way too many stories of people missing application deadlines for their dream jobs, or even – gasp! – missing important interviews. In the age of the smartphone, keeping activities and appointments in your bullet journal may seem old-fashioned and even quaint, but it can be extremely helpful. It’s all too easy make mistakes with important appointment, and you’ll be kicking yourself if you miss out on an important opportunity. More importantly, if an appointment is marked on your calendar, you’ll be more likely to prepare for it in advance.

So, get your markers and washi tape ready (or, if you’re like me, all you need is the perfect black pen) and get ready to bullet journal your way to your dream job.