I was recently reading an interview of someone who recently got his Global Talent Visa. He highlighted how much documentation he had to do while applying for the visa, which triggered today’s newsletter.
For many tech professionals, keeping records of accomplishments, project details, and milestones seems like a secondary task—something you might get to “when there’s time.” But without it, you’re missing a key foundation for career growth.
Why it matters
- Stronger performance reviews: Having concrete examples of your work makes it easier to advocate for yourself. Instead of saying, “I worked on X project,” imagine saying, “I reduced customer churn by 30%.”
- Ready for opportunities: Whether it’s a promotion or a new role, having a clear record of your work makes transitions smoother. Your documentation shows exactly why you’re the right fit.
- Better conversations about raises: Numbers speak! Knowing your impact in hard figures or clear results helps you make a solid case when it’s time to talk about compensation.
How to start documenting (without overcomplicating things)
It doesn’t need to be complex or time-consuming. Here’s a straightforward approach to get you started:
1. Set up a system
Use tools that you’re comfortable with. Here are a few ideas:
• Notion or Evernote for a comprehensive, organized list of achievements.
• Google Docs or Sheets for quick, easy-to-access logs.
• GitHub README, if you’re a developer, to document project details alongside code.
2. Keep it simple
Focus on keeping things simple and actionable. Record these details:
• Project name and description
• Your role and responsibilities
• Challenges faced and how you solved them
• Metrics (e.g., revenue generated, time saved, conversion improved)
3. Document regularly
After completing a project, take a few minutes to note down key points. Set a reminder to update your documentation weekly or monthly—whatever frequency works best for you.
4. Translate tech into impact
Metrics speak loudly. Make sure to quantify achievements wherever possible. Instead of “improved load times,” say “reduced load times by 20%, which enhanced user experience and potentially boosted retention.”
Think of documentation as a long-term career insurance plan. It’s not only about having a killer resume or nailing a performance review—though those are perks. Keeping tabs on your achievements also helps you track your growth. You’ll see patterns in your strengths, get a clear sense of what you bring to the table, and start to recognise what you’re really good at.
