Like many people out there, I got a job right out of college, but felt in some ways I had settled and was capable of achieving much more in life. After almost two years, I was unfulfilled in a job that didn’t push the boundaries. It was time to make my mark in the world. Prior to leaving my job, I set up a system to organize my job search efforts, gain exposure through social networks and implemented a system to collect information vital to my search.

Evernote

One of the most useful note taking apps out there. I am obsessed with Evernote and use it for everything from recipes to drafting blog posts. When it comes to your job search, Evernote allows you to keep track of your search efforts by capturing, categorizing and will be a useful reference to prepare for your next interview.

Capture companies you want to work for, jobs you want to apply to and those you haven’t. Add tags to each note to categorize for future reference. After you have a collection of notes, take a look back on your progress.

Track what types of jobs you apply to and what industries you are interested in. Looking back will give you insight as to where you came from and how your preferences have changed.

Prepare for interivews. Type up targeted Q & A’s prior to each interivew and brainstorm for at least an hour in preparation. Collecting your thoughts, drafting hypothetical scenarios and answering the tough questions will give you the leading edge in a competative job market.

For more on how to use Evernote, check out tutorials on Cameronplommer.com .

Instapaper

For your job search, use Instapaper to capture relavent articles and blog posts for tips, hints and inspiration. There is a lot of useful info out there for career development and coaching. Find it. Use it. Just by doing your research you will be already ahead in the game.

Instapaper can be used anywhere, even without a nearby WiFi connection. As long as the article was previously downloaded in the app, you will have full access to it at any time. Perfect for airplane mode, traveling abroad or in remote areas.

LinkedIn

Stay connected with college professors, colleagues and build your online resume. Today almost everyone who is looking for a job or has one is on LinkedIn. I included it in my list as a reminder to stay active on LinkedIn and try to spend equal if not more time on this network than on Facebook and Twitter. Join groups on LinkedIn, participate in discussions, make connections and engage with others in the same industry.

Brazen Careerist

Join the conversation. Become part of a network of career bloggers, companies and amazing career resources. As part of the network, you can attend webinars, virtual career fairs, get career advice and take training courses to learn a new skill or ramp up old ones.

Incorporate these apps and networks into your job search efforts and you will be one step closer to finding the next rewarding opportunity in your career.