Job Hunting during the Coronavirus Pandemic

This is nuts!

Who could have imagined that this would be our reality as we were closing out 2019? I was very excited about 2020 in November and December of last year. In just a few short months I seem to be living in a nightmare.  

Let me be frank, job hunting during a pandemic is the most stressful thing I have ever had to endure as an adult. I have no idea what the next few months will be and unfortunately, I think a vast majority of companies are in the same place. What does the Coronavirus mean for hiring? What does it mean for someone like me who is switching industries? So many uncertainties. With all of these unknowns, it has been very difficult to be positive.

But, here’s how I am trying to spend my time while quarantined in my apartment. 

1. Get more skills certifications. I already have the Inbound Marketing certification and now I am working to get the Content Marketing certification under my belt as well. In a week or so I’ll tackle Google Analytics and AdWords. When the word “marketing” is not in any of the titles on my resume, I am getting these certifications will show potential employers that I am knowledgeable and committed to growing in the field. 

2. Read. Dave Gerhardt recently posted a list of must-read marketing books. My goal is to tackle one of these books a month – taking notes and adjusting my approach to job searching as appropriate.

3.  Apply anyway. If the job is still posted and I feel I have the qualifications I have applying anyway. The worse thing I could get back is a note that the position is no longer open. At least I tried. 

4. Do something fun. I’m a hermit by nature, so being alone is actually pretty fun for me. What’s not fun? Reading Coronavirus-related articles for three hours straight. Did that a few times and after getting a headache, I have decided to pull back on the overload of information. I pulled out my sketch pad and started doodling. I’m terrible at it, so its actually fun to just do something for the sake of doing it. No expectations. 

5. Connect with others. I am grateful to have supportive friends and family members who check in on me and are always asking how they can help with my job search. Even though the answer is often “I’m good,” the support from my village has been amazing. 

6. Go outside. I haven’t been great with this one. I have huge windows in my bedroom and so I forget to actually get up and walk outside every day. Coronavirus or not, Vitamin D is super important. Get you some…

Making the switch from nonprofit sales (fundraising) to marketing in tech can be challenging. Add a pandemic, and we have a sitcom. I've decided to blog my journey to take the edge off. Follow along at https://makingtheswitch.me!