Unprecedented Times Call for Unprecedented Action

We're all feeling a bit uneasy these days. Questions on how to handle this unprecedented situation are coming up daily.

It's only natural to feel unsettled when there is no established playbook on how to move forward when you can't leave your home. We have to make up the rules as we go and adjust along the way.

What we can't do is stand still, or we'll fall behind as the competition advances in front of us.

Here are a handful of the most critical questions I'm getting these days.

Something on your mind? Ask your question in the comment section below.

Should I be worried about losing my best people to the competition? Or do you think people will remain in place until this virus thing is behind us?

Response: Top talent is always in demand. This pandemic has resulted in a feeding frenzy for all those recruiters who couldn't find enough programmers, healthcare workers, truck drivers, etc. Now's the time to double down on your employee engagement efforts. Check-in regularly with your people and remind them how much you value them.

I interviewed for a job several weeks ago, just before businesses pretty much closed down. I haven't heard back from anyone, even though the HR person indicated they'd like me to come back for another interview. I don't want to seem like a bother, given all these people have on their plates. Should I sit back and wait for them to call me?

Response: Absolutely not. This is not the time to sit back! This is the time to charge ahead. Call the hiring manager directly and let him know you're very interested in the position discussed. If you get voicemail, tell him you'll also be following up with an email.

I've been trying to fill a key position before the pandemic and wasn't having much success. I want to post this job again, but I'm worried that I'll be overwhelmed with resumes. Is it best for me to wait until things get back to normal?

You stated this is a crucial position, which means you need this position filled ASAP. If you're that concerned about being overwhelmed with candidates, consider hiring a contract recruiter to help you sort through the resumes. Or better yet, reach out to your contacts again and see if they know someone who would be a good fit for this job. The status of millions of workers changed overnight. My guess is someone will know someone in need of a job like the position you're trying to fill.

? Matuson Consulting, 2020.

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