Paper Trails: no, not the TI album

While the 2008 hip-hop/rap album Paper Trails is a gem, we’ve got more important things to discuss.

There are certain job history-related documents that you should always keep on file:

1. Offer letter
2. Job description
3. Letter of employment
4. Annual/Quarterly review records
5. Notices of raises or other recognition
6. Letters of termination or resignation

Why? Hopefully for no reason! But, having these documents in an easy to find location can be invaluable if you find yourself needing to advocate for yourself: to get a raise or promotion, or, if necessary, defend yourself.

If you end up having to call a meeting with HR or to make a case for a raise, you’ll want to be able to back up your claims. Having proof, on paper, is the best way to do this. Kick it old school.

Keeping these records handy also comes in clutch when you are applying to other jobs! (Bonus points if you have a spreadsheet with all your dates of employment, complete with job title and salary.)

Put them all in a file folder, go full Elle Woods and put them in a bedazzled binder, or save scans and PDFs in a folder on your home computer. It is up to you how you do it, just do it.