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How to Export and Transfer Your Data Between PyjamaHR Workspaces (Data Portability Guide)

Updated this week

Executive Summary

PyjamaHR allows you to export your company’s recruitment data for backup, compliance, or migration purposes. This guide explains how to request, download, and use your PyjamaHR data export (“data dump”), including best practices, troubleshooting, and answers to common questions—so you can confidently manage your data across workspaces or when transitioning away from PyjamaHR.


Detailed Overview

What is Data Portability in PyjamaHR?
Data portability refers to your ability to export all your recruitment data (such as candidate records, resumes, and job postings) from your PyjamaHR workspace. This is especially important when:
- You need a backup for compliance or auditing.
- You’re migrating to a new PyjamaHR workspace (e.g., due to company restructuring).
- You’re transitioning to another ATS or need your data for internal reporting.

How Does It Work?
- PyjamaHR provides a “data dump” upon request, typically as a downloadable ZIP file containing CSV files and, in some cases, links to candidate resumes.
- The export is processed by the PyjamaHR support team and delivered via a secure, time-limited download link.
- The data dump includes structured data (CSV) and, where applicable, document links.

Integration with Other Features
- Data exports can be used to import into another PyjamaHR workspace (manual process).
- Resume links in the CSV can be used to download candidate documents as needed.

Business Impact
- Ensures compliance with data retention and portability regulations.
- Reduces risk of data loss during workspace transitions.
- Empowers you to maintain control over your recruitment data.


Step-by-Step Guide: Exporting and Transferring Data Between PyjamaHR Workspaces

Prerequisites

  • You must be an admin or have the necessary permissions to request a data export.

  • Have access to the email address associated with your PyjamaHR account.

1. Requesting Your Data Export

  1. Contact PyjamaHR Support
    - Email [email protected] or use the in-app chat.
    - Specify your workspace name and the reason for the export (e.g., “I need a data dump to migrate to a new workspace”).
    - Provide a contact number if requested for verification.

  2. Wait for Confirmation
    - Support will confirm your request and provide an estimated timeline (typically 5–7 days).

2. Receiving the Data Dump

  1. Check Your Email
    - You’ll receive an email from PyjamaHR with a download link (usually a .zip file) and/or a CSV attachment.
    - The link is time-limited (valid for 5–7 days). Download promptly.

Screenshot suggestion: Example email with download link and expiry notice.

3. Downloading and Extracting Your Data

  1. Download the ZIP File
    - Click the provided link to download the .zip file to your computer.

  2. Extract the ZIP File
    - Use your operating system’s built-in extractor or a tool like The Unarchiver (Mac).
    - If you encounter issues opening the ZIP, try an alternative extractor or contact support.

Screenshot suggestion: ZIP file extraction process.

  1. Review the CSV Files
    - Open the CSV files in Excel, Google Sheets, or another spreadsheet tool.
    - CSVs typically include candidate data, job postings, and links to resumes.

4. Using Your Exported Data

  1. For Migration to Another Workspace
    - There is no automated “import” feature; you’ll need to manually upload or enter data into the new workspace.
    - Use the CSVs to recreate jobs or candidate records as needed.

  2. For Resume Files
    - Download resumes using the links provided in the CSV.
    - If you need all resumes in bulk, request this specifically from support.


Advanced Usage & Best Practices

  • Download Promptly: Data dump links expire in 5–7 days for security. Download and back up immediately.

  • Use Reliable Extraction Tools: Some ZIP files may not open with default extractors. Tools like The Unarchiver (Mac) or 7-Zip (Windows) are recommended.

  • Check Data Integrity: After extraction, verify that all expected files and data are present.

  • Secure Your Data: Store exported files securely and restrict access to authorized personnel only.

  • Communicate Clearly: When requesting a data dump, specify if you need all resumes in bulk or just links.

  • Plan for Manual Migration: There is currently no automated import between PyjamaHR workspaces; plan resources accordingly.

Do’s:
- Do clarify your export requirements with support.
- Do test your ability to open ZIP/CSV files before the link expires.
- Do keep a record of your data dump requests for compliance.

Don’ts:
- Don’t wait until the last day to download your data.
- Don’t share download links with unauthorized users.
- Don’t assume resume files are included unless specified—sometimes only links are provided.


Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Issue: ZIP file won’t open or extract.
Solution:
- Try a different extraction tool (e.g., The Unarchiver for Mac, 7-Zip for Windows).
- If the file is corrupted or still won’t open, contact support immediately.

Issue: Download link expired before download.
Solution:
- Contact support to request a new link. Specify urgency and previous request details.

Issue: Only CSV with resume links provided, not actual files.
Solution:
- Use the links to download resumes manually.
- If you require all resumes in bulk, request this specifically from support.

Issue: Data dump not received after promised timeline.
Solution:
- Follow up with support, referencing your original request and any previous communication.

Issue: Unclear file formats or missing data.
Solution:
- Ask support for clarification on file contents or request a different format if needed.


Comprehensive FAQ

1. How do I request a data export from PyjamaHR?
Contact support via email or in-app chat, specifying your workspace and export needs.

2. How long does it take to receive my data dump?
Typically 5–7 business days, but follow up if you haven’t received it.

3. How long is the download link valid?
Usually 5–7 days. Download as soon as you receive the link.

4. What format is the data provided in?
A ZIP file containing CSV files and, in some cases, links to resume files.

5. Can I import this data directly into another PyjamaHR workspace?
No automated import exists; you’ll need to manually recreate jobs/candidates.

6. I can’t open the ZIP file. What should I do?
Try a different extraction tool. If issues persist, contact support.

7. The CSV only has links to resumes, not the files themselves. Can I get the actual files?
Request this specifically from support; otherwise, you’ll need to download resumes individually.

8. What if I miss the download window?
Contact support to request a new link.

9. Is my data secure during this process?
Yes, links are time-limited and only sent to authorized contacts.

10. Can I request a data dump if my trial has ended?
Yes, data export is available even after your trial, but request promptly.

11. What should I do if I don’t receive my data after the promised timeline?
Follow up with support, referencing your previous communication.

12. Can I get a sample of the data export before requesting the full dump?
Currently, this is not standard, but you can ask support for clarification.


Related Features & Next Steps


Still have questions?
Contact PyjamaHR Support for personalized assistance.


Real Example:
“I’m unable to download the data dump properly. It’s mentioned as CSV but the link points to a ZIP file that doesn’t open.”
Solution: Use a recommended extraction tool like The Unarchiver or 7-Zip, and contact support if issues persist.


This guide is based on real customer experiences and is designed to help you manage your PyjamaHR data with confidence and minimal disruption.

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