How to Find A Job During The COVID-19 Pandemic

If you lost your job or were put on furlough during the COVID-19 crisis, you are likely feeling the impact of a seriously reduced income. In many parts of the world things are improving but the economy still has a long way to go to get back to pre-COVID levels. For someone who is searching for a job, this means that the process may be a little more difficult than usual and will definitely look a lot different. The good news is that there are some practical things you can do to improve your chances of finding a job while the COVID-19 crisis continues to impact the economy. 

These Companies Are Hiring in East Texas During Coronavirus

Make sure you have all of the right information up online

Before the COVID-19 crisis, much of the job market was already moving toward doing much of the job application and hiring process using online resources. Now, the number of employers that are relying heavily on online resources to find employees is even higher. What does this mean for you as a person who is trying to find a job right now? It means that you need to make sure you have all of the right information up online and that all relevant profiles are updated. 

Online Resume

If the only resume you have is the one hanging out in your word processor, it is time to get it online. Employers are doing as much of the hiring process as possible online during the COVID-19 crisis. This means they are looking over resumes and applications digitally before they schedule an in-person meeting or virtual interview. You must get your resume up online so you can quickly and easily get it to employers. This can be done by uploading your resume to a job search site like Indeed and connecting it to your Linkedin profile. If you have a website or online portfolio, include your resume there as well. 

Linkedin Profile

Your Linkedin profile can be a valuable asset in your job search. Some employers turn to Lindkedin to help with their search for employees. It is important to keep the most up-to-date information about your work history and current status on Linkedin so potential employers can determine if you are a good match.Remember to keep things professional on Linkedin because potential employers will likely look at your profile.  

Online Portfolio 

If they type of work you do can be displayed or linked to online, consider creating an online portfolio. You can do this for free using a site like Crevado which is a portfolio building website. Having a portfolio ready to go will make it simple for you to show potential employers your work. 

Job Search Site Profile

Another place to make sure and update your information is on any job search sites where you have profiles. On sites like Indeed and ZipRecruiter you can upload your resume, create custom searches and alerts, and set your job search status and availability. Keeping this information up-to-date improves your chances of being connected with an opportunity that is a good fit. 

Reach out to the people in your network

Everyone has experienced some type of hardship because of the COVID-19 crisis. For many people, the hardships have come in the form of job losses and reduction in income. You may be surprised just how many people in your network have felt the financial impact of the pandemic. This shared experience is something that can help you in your search for a job – even during the continued difficulties that many people are facing. 

Previous Employers and Coworkers

Start reaching out to people in your network that you have worked with before. This can include previous employers with whom you parted on good terms, an old manager who is now working in a different place, and previous coworkers. These people already know what type of employee you would be and may be able to help you get back to work quickly. 

Friends, Family, and Acquaintances

You never know what type of connections you have until you put yourself out there. Let your friends, family, and acquaintances know that you are actively looking for work. Make a simple and professional post on your social media profiles to let your network know that you are looking for a new job. Reaching out to your network can end up being a win-win because you get a job and your connection gets the open position filled. 

Develop a new skill or explore new opportunities

There are some parts of the job market that simply have not started to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. If your previous field is still looking grim then it may be time for you to develop a new skill or explore new opportunities. 

Develop a New Skill

If you are looking to develop a new skill amid the COVID-19 crisis, all the resources you need may be at your fingertips. There is a plethora of online learning platforms where you can learn skills that range from coding to baking. There are many different skills you can learn online and then immediately use to earn money. For example, graphic design is a skill that you can start using as soon as you have developed a foundation of knowledge and practice. You can put examples of your work up on a platform like Fiverr and start attracting customers right away. If you are looking for more traditional employment (not freelancing) then consider earning a certification online in the area you are hoping to work. For example, many of the coding languages have professional certifications that you can earn. 

Explore New Opportunities

Perhaps you already possess some skills that you can put to good use in the job market but have yet to explore those opportunities. Now is a great time to consider making a career shift or changing careers completely. If you are not having any luck finding work in the field you were in before COVID-19 crisis, consider looking at other options that are a good fit for your experience and skill set. 

The Secret To Getting Hired During COVID-19

Finding a job in the current climate may be more difficult than usual but it is not impossible. Employers are still hiring and looking for reliable and qualified employees during the Coronavirus pandemic. The key is to get your information in front of the right person when you find a position that is a good fit for you. Make sure all of your information online is up-to-date, involve the people in your network in the process, and take a fresh look at what you can or want to do with your career. Each of these steps can help you during your search for a new job.