6 Tips for Job Hunting During COVID
The novel coronavirus has proven to be fatal – not just for millions of people worldwide but also for the global economy. Struggling to stay afloat, companies have been laying employees off left and right in a desperate attempt to keep their operational costs manageable. Needless to say, such a situation has dramatically changed the game for people looking for new jobs.
The pandemic has hurled us into unchartered territory, and job seekers are not sure how to go about searching for work in the COVID-era. In this article, we put forward certain tips that can help you land a decent job even during an economic and financial turmoil of this extent.
- Accept the Changes
Admit that your previous approaches to job-seeking are now almost redundant. Companies are looking for different types of employees and have different recruitment processes and working conditions. It might also be an excellent time to think about the pandemic's long-term impact and research and forecast which industries and businesses would be the most sought-after once the COVID-19 subsides and life returns to a new normal.
- Do Not Stop Searching
Just because your preferred company is not hiring for the time being, does not mean that you should sit back and concede defeat. While the current situation has produced barricades in some areas, it has also presented previously unavailable opportunities. There might be a treasure within the ruins awaiting you, but you will never find it if you stop looking.
- Improve Your Network
"It is not what you know, but who you know" is a saying which is undoubtedly associated with elements of truth. Especially in times like these where finding a job on your own is hard, your contacts and references can prove to be untapped goldmines.
If you find yourself with a bit of extra time these days, make it count by reaching out to your contacts and catching up with them. Not only will this allow you to explore new avenues for your job search, but it will also provide you the opportunities to reconnect with people that you lost touch with.
Get your potential employer to notice you by interacting on its social media accounts or channels. You could like posts or even comment on blogs. These interactions might play an important role when your CV is being considered for shortlisting. Moreover, those social engagements will enable you to learn more about the company and give you plenty of talking points should you land an interview.
- Enhance Your Skillset
COVID-19 has further highlighted the importance of technology and the people proficient at using it. It has also shown that, to attract employers, you need to be able to adapt, improvise, and be welcoming of change. This is a great time to focus on your personal and professional development. You will not only hone your existing skills while learning new ones; you will be able to further enrich your CV before your next job interview.
There are plenty of online courses available at zero cost, ranging in areas, such as finance to web designing. Through these online forums, you can learn new stuff at your own pace while also acclimatizing yourself to the world of virtual meetings and connections for your next online job interview.
- Consider A Temporary Role
It is an excellent idea to try and get a temporary role while you continue your search for a permanent job. Many companies in the health, services, and logistics sectors are looking to hire interim workers. By taking up a short-term job, you will be able to generate an income while also establishing new connections that might lead you to your next permanent employer's doorstep.
- Work on Your CV
Do you know that the average employer spends less than ten seconds on a CV before deciding whether to move forward with it or place it on the ‘rejected’ pile? Hence, it is imperative that your resume makes a lasting first impression. Come up with a headline that outlines your most significant achievements and qualities.
Also, while talking about prior work experience, do make sure to highlight the skills and experiences you attained which are relevant to the job you are currently applying for. Restrict your CV to a maximum of three pages, go through it with a fine-tooth comb to make sure there are no grammatical or spelling errors or get a friend or colleague to proofread it for you.
Not only has COVID-19 affected job markets, but it has also wreaked havoc on our day-to-day lives and routines. We understand that it is hard to stay positive under such bleak conditions, but it is crucial for maintaining focus and well-being. As for your job struggle, you must remember that the current scenario will not last forever, and once things improve, the recruiting industry will probably be the first to spring back to its feet.
It is not to say that you cannot find a job right now; with reduced competition, more time to work on applications, and attend interviews, there is a multitude of reasons for you to remain optimistic.
Written by David Ford