The corona virus pandemic has not only had a significant impact on the global economy but also job search for many individuals. No one was prepared for the corona virus pandemic and it has unfortunately caused unrealistic impact on almost all industries. Some small businesses are on the brink of closing, whereas most of large businesses have been disrupted. Some companies have responded to this pandemic with major manpower layoffs due to cost cutting and implementing hiring freezes.

It’s fair to assume that the average job search in 2020 will take longer than the time frame compared to 2018. While there may be a shorter-than-average time-to-hire for those companies that are recruiting part-time and/or temporary workers to meet pandemic-specific demands, most companies will experience a slower hiring process over the next several months and less hiring means a more competitive search wherein you will also have to focus on enhancing your skills and network as much as you can.Many are wondering, “How do I even search for a new job during this uncertain time?” In chaos, anxiety and uncertainty it’s normal to be discouraged from developing a strong job search. While things are changing every day, it’s important to know with a lot of patience and perseverance, finding a new job in 2020 can soon be within your reach. There are few of businesses still actively hiring new employees. Your job search may look a bit different than it did in the past, but rest assured that there are still opportunities ripe for the taking if you make a few adjustments to your overall job search strategy.

  1. Be Flexible with opportunities: There are many organizations that have enacted hiring freezes however there are still few companies that are still hiring. So, don’t assume companies are not hiring you just need to broaden your search and look for available opportunities. You might need to change your industry or take up new profile during this though times but don’t give up. You can still learn and explore new skills Be flexible, and consider temporary opportunities. Consider temporary or freelance jobs to tide you over. Think of a passion or a potential side hustle that you haven’t tapped into yet. How can you spin that activity into a part-time job or freelance opportunity? Be agile enough to pivot as needed.  There are many companies that are providing Remote opportunities and contract work during pandemic time.
  2. Identify growing industries: It is time to indulge in some research to identify and apply at companies that have adapted well during the uncertainty and are also uniquely positioned to add value to our new normal environment. Most IT, Educational companies are equipped to transition their in-office roles to remote ones in efforts to keep things going as usual. Additionally, healthcare and manufacturing companies are also hiring rapidly as the demand for resources continues to spike due to COVID-19.
  3. Learn New Skills: Whether you’re a pro in your field or you have vast experience there’s always room for anyone to acquire new skills that can take their abilities to greater heights. When you are on Career break or especially during this crisis invest in your professional skills and learn something new. Browse the internet for courses or tutorials to help you earn a new certification to add to your resume. There are many websites that are offering courses that are free or you may have to invest minimum to get certification. Additional you can also join webinars, there are many platforms that are offering free webinars wherein you can know what is happening around and how are different industries and sectors planning strategy to come out strongly in this pandemic. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about anything, now is the perfect time to do so!
  4. Strengthen your Network: Your professional network is more important now than ever before. make sure you’re interacting with your connections, sharing articles and stay active. Let your friends and professional group, connect to Old colleagues and boss/mentors know that you are looking for job opportunity so that they can recommend you if they come across any opportunities Seek out like-minded professionals that you admire online to spark conversations about possible opportunities and virtual networking events and chats. Join professional groups online like LinkedIn to expand your job search and network. During this downtime,it’s the perfect opportunity to make new authentic connections and revive old ones. 
  5. Be ready for Virtual Interview: Virtual interviewing is our new normal, so be you have to be prepared to present yourself on video. Preparing for video interview is as serious as personal interview. Dress appropriately, as though you’re heading into the company’s office, control your environment and find a place that’s quiet, clutter-free and well-lit. Stay ahead of the curve by downloading video platforms like Zoom, Google meet or Skype to ensure your interview goes over smoothly. Practice where to look and record yourself narrating the various directions. When you play it back, you can see what focal point works the best for your particular situation.
  6. Be patient with slower processes: Try to be patient with yourself and employers. This is a tough time for all and companies are experiencing challenges undergoing so much change in a short span of time. You are not alone in this crisis as globally people are affected due to it. Circumstances are changing each day, but remember there is still plenty you can do to carry on with your job hunt. Connect to companies and Recruiters and keep trying you will definitely land will a job opportunity sooner or later.

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