Tips for Job Searching in 2020

If you’re job searching in 2020, then you know that COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the economy, and on job opportunities. People have been laid off and many companies have had to reassess if, when, and how they hire.

This has put job seekers in a unique position. Should you look for jobs now? What do you need to do differently? Should you wait things out? These are all questions many job seekers are wondering, and we’re here to help.

Here are 8 tips you can use to boost your job search through 2020 and beyond:
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1. Accept that things have changed, but keep looking, and be patient
The types of candidates companies are looking for, how they hire, recruiting processes, and work conditions have changed. Even if the companies you want to work for are not hiring or have put things on hold, it’s still important for you to keep looking for opportunities.

2. Expand the types of jobs you’re interested in
The role you may have wanted or been interested in before the pandemic may not be available, or it may be very different from what it was. Consider casting a wider net and be open to different roles that you are well suited to. Perhaps it’s worth looking for similar roles in a different industry.
3. Consider temporary roles
If you’re not able to find full-time permanent work in your field, consider a temporary job while you continue your job search. It’s a great way to make connections and keep a stream of income flowing.

4. Leverage your network
Even if employers are not hiring, it’s still very important to put feelers out there. Connect with your network and make it known you are looking to make a career move. Your network is one of the best sources to find a new opportunity.

5. Set goals and stay positive
While there are some things beyond our control, we can remain focused on what we can do right now. Create your schedule and follow-through, focus on your career development, but also pay attention to your mental health.

• Set up goals, whether it’s daily, weekly or monthly. Focus on your efforts, not how many interviews you get. Examples: “I will connect with five professionals every week on LinkedIn,” “I will schedule one informational interview every week”, or “I will spend one hour on skill development through online learning every day.”
• Review your progress regularly, recognize your efforts and reward yourself. It’s easy to lose confidence and feel frustrated in the process of job searching. Having a positive mindset and building confidence is essential. 
  
  

6. Update your skills
The skills and traits companies are looking for are changing. One thing that COVID-19 has highlighted is the need for people with technology skills. It’s also put a spotlight on the importance for companies to have people who are flexible, adaptable, and have strong change management skills.

If applicable, highlight your remote work experience, any specific video technologies you’re experienced/familiar with, and any soft skills, including time management, adaptability, and written communication on your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn Profile. As many companies shift to remote work, it’s important to demonstrate that you can quickly adapt to different working environments while maintaining productivity and quality of work.

If you don’t have a lot of technological experience, spend your free time taking some online courses to prepare yourself for professional development. There are plenty of free courses and resources available online. Take this opportunity to add a few certifications to your profile.

7. Be ready for video interviews
Because of travel restrictions and requirements on physical distancing, many employers shifted interviews online, using online platforms such as Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, WebEx, etc. Are you comfortable being on camera and setting up your video feed and microphone? Have you used video chat and meeting tools? If not, it’s time to start using them and getting familiar with them so you’re comfortable and natural if you need to be ready for a video interview.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your virtual interview. 

• Understand the platform you are using. Install the program to your computer and test with your friends before your interview day. Learn about different features and get yourself familiar with all the functions, such as how to mute, how to share screen, etc. Use a stable internet connection and check your audio setup.
• During your interview, remember to lock your door from your roommates, pets, toddlers, or anyone that might distract you. 
• Maintain a professional appearance. Dress professionally and act as if you are in the interviewer’s office. 
• Keep your notes handy on your screen. Remember, you can sneak a peek at other documents on your screen while focusing on the interviewers. That’s the advantage of a video interview. But remember to never read your notes outright, hiring managers will know it. 
• Make eye contact with the camera, not your screen; this helps you build rapport with the interviewers. Stay focused and attentive. 

8. Follow up
If you haven’t heard from a company after applying, make sure to follow up. There are a lot of moving parts right now, but following up and re-communicating your interest will help keep you top of mind when companies start moving forward with hiring.

It’s also very important to keep in contact with your network. Reach out to people you haven’t spoke with in awhile, follow up with references, and build rapport with people who already know you.​

Looking for a job always has its challenges, but COVID-19 has made it even more challenging. Staying consistent, leveraging your network, and adapting to the changing work world is the key to make yourself the right candidate for the job.

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