7 Tips for Job Searching During the Pandemic

By Kailey Walters on January 7, 2021

Whether you’ve recently lost a job or you’re searching for your very first one, job searching during a pandemic is certainly not easy — but it’s not impossible, either. There are a few important tips you should keep in mind while job searching in the months to come.

via Pexels

1. Have realistic expectations.

Job searching during a pandemic is very different from job searching during any other time. As a result, it’s important that you have realistic expectations and understand that finding a job will probably take a little longer than you would hope. Having realistic expectations will help you not only create and organize a strategic plan for executing your job search, but it will also help you to maintain your sense of hope without getting too discouraged if your search drags on a little longer than expected.

One way you can maintain realistic expectations is by applying to more jobs than you think you need to. Doing so will give you plenty of options and provide a cushion for you so that even if you don’t get the dream jobs you applied to, you still have a chance of landing something else.

2. Update your job search materials.

Before plunging into the job search, it’s important to update all your job application materials — meaning your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. These materials are essential for most of the jobs you’ll be applying to, as most applications will ask for both a resume and cover letter, and many recruiters may end up viewing your profile on LinkedIn to glean some extra information on you. Make sure everything on these materials is up to date and accurate so that you can put your best foot forward.

3. Be aware of the job market.

Different industries and occupations have not all been affected by the pandemic in the same way. Certain industries, such as travel, food services, hospitality, and event planning, have been especially hard hit, whereas the healthcare field, cleaning services, grocery stores, and online shopping and delivery are all growing and hiring rapidly. Knowing the differences in the job market is crucial during your search, as it will help you to maintain realistic expectations and understand that finding a job in certain fields may be harder than others.

4. Search online.

With everything online now, the best way to conduct your job search is by searching online. There are a number of job sites that you can check regularly for new positions, including LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed, just to name a few. You can check specific websites’ companies to see if they have any new positions as well.

5. Network.

In any job search, it’s vital that you make the effort to network. Even though you may not be able to attend in-person career fairs or meet up with connections for a chat over coffee, you still have many opportunities to network digitally. In fact, digital networking could even be a blessing in disguise because it allows you to connect with people you’re not geographically close to, allowing you to expand your professional network. Keep an eye out for digital conferences and events that you can attend from the comfort of your home. Also, make sure to maintain relationships with existing connections, as you never know when a new opportunity could arise with them.

6. Prepare for a virtual interview.

After all your searching, you may have landed an interview or two — congratulations! These interviews will likely be virtual due to the pandemic, which means you have to prepare for them a little differently than you would for an in-person interview. For one thing, make sure that you practice interviewing in front of a camera and ensure that your background and lighting are optimal so that the interviewer will be able to see your face. You should also make sure that you are comfortable using video technology — so double check to ensure that your audio and video work and that you know how to use Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or whatever other video conferencing platform that is necessary. Also, even though the interview will be virtual, you should still dress the part as if you’re going in for an in-person interview so that you exude professionalism.

7. Learn new skills.

During the pandemic, you may have had more free time than usual. What better way to spend that time than by learning new skills to help you in your job search? Depending on the industry you’re aiming for, there are many different free or very affordable online classes you can take and certificates you can earn that will help you stand out as a prospective candidate. When you apply for a job or when you have an interview, you’ll have the chance to show recruiters and hiring managers that you spent your time wisely and productively by upgrading your skills and improving yourself.

While searching for a job during this pandemic can certainly be a long and trying process, don’t give up. Remain persistent and know that your skills are valuable in the industry you want to break into.

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