When closing your PyjamaHR account, you may need a complete export (“data dump”) of your candidate resumes and related data for compliance, migration, or internal archiving. This guide explains exactly how to request, receive, and successfully download your full data dump, with actionable steps, troubleshooting, and best practices based on real customer experiences.

A full data dump from PyjamaHR is a one-time export of all candidate resumes (typically in PDF format) and, in some cases, associated CSV files containing download links. This export is most commonly requested when organizations are transitioning to a new ATS, need to retain records for compliance, or are winding down their PyjamaHR usage.

Key points:
- The data dump primarily includes candidate resumes; structured data fields (like notes, job descriptions, or parsed data) are generally not included unless specifically arranged.
- Data is provided as downloadable ZIP files, often via secure links listed in a CSV file.
- Download links are time-limited (typically 5–7 days), and large data volumes may require multiple ZIP files or links.
- PyjamaHR support must process and fulfill the request; there is no self-service “export all” button for full account data.

Business Impact & Benefits:
- Ensures you retain all candidate records for compliance or migration.
- Facilitates smooth transition to a new ATS or internal HR system.
- Reduces risk of data loss upon account closure.

Option A: Via Support Chat or Email
- Contact PyjamaHR Support via in-app chat or email ([email protected]).
- Clearly state:
- You are closing your account and require a full data dump.
- Your registered email address.
- Any special requirements (e.g., role-wise export, specific data fields, extended download window).

Example Request:

“We are closing our PyjamaHR account and need a full data dump of all candidate resumes and related data. Our registered email is [email protected]. Please advise on the process and timeline.”

Option B: During Account Cancellation
- If prompted during cancellation, select the option to request a data dump.
- Confirm your contact details and requirements.

Tip: Follow up if you do not receive a response within the estimated timeframe.

Screenshot Callout:
​ Screenshot of sample email with CSV attachment and download instructions.

If you need more time:
- Immediately request an extension from support, explaining your data volume and download constraints.

Screenshot Callout:
​ Screenshot of extracting ZIP files using 7-Zip or The Unarchiver.

Do:
- Confirm the data dump includes all required information before account closure.
- Test extraction of a sample ZIP file before downloading all files.
- Communicate clearly with support about deadlines and special needs.

Don’t:
- Assume the data dump includes all structured data fields (notes, job descriptions, etc.)—clarify with support.
- Wait until the last minute to download files.
- Ignore link expiry warnings—expired links require a new request, which can delay your transition.

1. Download Link Expired
- Issue: “The link shared for the backup download is no longer working.”
- Solution: Contact support immediately. A new link must be generated; this may take additional time.

2. ZIP File Won’t Open
- Issue: “Unable to open the downloaded ZIP file.”
- Solution: Use 7-Zip (Windows) or The Unarchiver (Mac). If still failing, request support to verify file integrity.

3. Download Too Large for Time Window
- Issue: “We have 600GB+ of data and only 6 hours to download.”
- Solution: Request an extended download window (48 hours or more) as soon as you receive the links.

4. Duplicate Resumes in Data Dump
- Issue: “The data contains lots of duplicate CVs.”
- Explanation: Candidates may apply to multiple jobs; their resume appears for each job. This is standard for PyjamaHR data dumps.

5. Only Resumes Provided, Not Data Fields
- Issue: “I want the data fields as well for all profiles.”
- Solution: By default, only resumes are included. For structured data, request a custom export or temporary platform access.

6. CSV File with Links Missing
- Issue: “Initially a CSV file was shared with us that had links to ZIP files. Kindly share that file.”
- Solution: Request the CSV file again from support if not received or lost.

1. What is included in the PyjamaHR data dump?
Primarily candidate resumes (PDFs), provided as ZIP files. Sometimes a CSV file with download links is included. Structured data fields are not included by default.

2. How long are the download links valid?
Typically 5–7 days. Always confirm the expiry date in your notification email.

3. Can I get an extension on the download window?
Yes, but you must request it from support as soon as possible.

4. What if my data dump is too large to download in time?
Request a longer download window or ask for the data to be split into smaller ZIP files.

5. Why are there duplicate resumes in my data dump?
Candidates who applied to multiple jobs will have their resume included for each job. This is standard to ensure no data is missed.

6. Can I get structured data (notes, job descriptions, etc.) in my export?
Not by default. Request a custom data dump or temporary platform access to export this data manually.

7. What tools should I use to extract ZIP files?
Use 7-Zip (Windows), WinRAR (Windows), or The Unarchiver (Mac).

8. What if I miss the download window?
Contact support to generate a new data dump. This may take additional time.

9. Can I migrate my data to a new PyjamaHR account?
No, PyjamaHR does not support direct account migration.

10. How do I request a role-wise or job-wise export?
Request this specifically from support. Note that custom exports may take 2–3 weeks.

11. Can I access the platform temporarily to export data myself?
Yes, in some cases support can grant 24–48 hours of access for manual exports.

12. What if I only need data for specific jobs?
Use the Compare View export feature for job-wise exports, or request a custom dump.

13. What if my account is already closed?
Contact support immediately. Data may still be recoverable if within retention policy, but urgency is critical.

Recommended Next Steps:
- Confirm your data dump requirements with your team before requesting.
- Test download and extraction of a sample file immediately upon receipt.
- Archive your data securely after download.

Still have questions?
Contact PyjamaHR Support via in-app chat or email for personalized assistance.

This article is based on real customer experiences and the latest PyjamaHR workflows as of June 2024. For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, always confirm details with PyjamaHR Support at the time of your request.