Best tips for job hunting during a pandemic

Nobody could have anticipated what 2020 would bring: a global pandemic. Sadly, candidates who were looking for a job suddenly saw their chances diminish considerably as the country went into lockdown. On top of that, numerous businesses have had to lay off workers in order to survive. And while the business world seems to have navigated the switch to remote work quite smoothly, it’s undeniable that job hunting now is a far cry from what it used to be.

With all the technology we have at our disposal, social distancing is no reason to put your job search on hold. Here are our best tips for job hunting during a pandemic.

• Look for remote jobs. There are still a lot of jobs being advertised, with most of them stating something like, “Remote for now.” Interestingly, you could be anywhere in the world as long as you have a reliable, high-speed internet connection. So why limit your job search to local jobs? More and more companies are looking for remote candidates to hire permanently—so cast your net wider. You might find your dream job!
• Boost your LinkedIn profile. U.S. Chamber advises that now is the time to make your LinkedIn profile shine. Make sure your headshot looks professional and your job history is up to date. See if there are any skills assessments you could take to add to your profile, and reach out to some of your contacts to ask for endorsements.
• Keep networking—online. According to The Muse, you can still network—as long as you do it online. Join professional groups on Facebook and LinkedIn, and actively contribute to discussions. It’s a great way to meet new contacts. At the same time, find out if there are any virtual events, like industry webinars, you can attend.
• Hone your skills. MOOC and Coursera are just two sites where you can find a large repository of online courses—and many of them are free. Put some of your time into working on your future and earn a certificate that will look great on your résumé.
• Be prepared to interview virtually. If you land a virtual interview, don’t treat it casually just because you’re doing it from your living room. Before the interview, check that your internet connection is working properly, and familiarize yourself with the specific teleconferencing app you’ll be using. Research the company and the position, and be prepared to speak to how your qualifications make you the best candidate for the job. Last, but not least, make sure to dress professionally—and not just from the waist up. You might have to stand up at some point to get something, and then it won’t look good if you’re wearing pajamas.

In addition to these tips, FlexJobs advises that employers are always on the lookout for flexible, adaptable, positive problem solvers. If you can show that you’re transforming obstacles into opportunities and using this time to further develop your skills and your network, there’s a good chance your upbeat attitude will help you stand out in a good way.

Source:

https://www.themuse.com/advice/job-search-coronavirus

https://www.uschamber.com/co/grow/thrive/job-hunting-during-pandemic-tips

https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/job-searching-during-cornavirus-pandemic/

https://www.mooc.org

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