The massive impact of COVID-19 is still sending ripples through the economy as many hunt for a new job to replace the work that they lost months earlier. However, even as the economy is reopening, finding work can still be difficult, especially since many companies may not be eager to return to a physical work environment. If you are amongst those seeking new employment, here are five tips for finding work amid the coronavirus pandemic that may help you land your next position.
1. Seek out work opportunities that follow protocol and provide you with a safe environment
When looking for a job amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to look for job opportunities that provide you with a safe environment. Some businesses may not adhere to guidelines laid out by their local government, which can put you at risk of contracting the virus. Even if things may be tough, it’s never worth it to risk getting the Coronavirus and facing severe health problems in the future.
Make sure to look for companies that will allow you to don your pink camo mask, maintain a safe distance from other workers, and take other security precautions designed to eliminate your chances of catching the virus. Safety is the first priority when it comes to finding your next job.
2. Look online to see if there are any remote opportunities available.
Due to the unsafe work conditions caused by COVID-19, many companies have decided to switch over to remote work in order to resume their day-to-day operations. While this may not be a possibility for those who were previously in a service position, check and see if you can find a company looking for remote work that falls into your realm of expertise and previous experience.
In some cases, these can be part-time and full-time jobs that may turn into a long-term position (and may return to normal working conditions once better precautions are in place). However, you may also find temporary and freelance opportunities that can provide you with income in the meantime. Remember, physical jobs are not the only types of jobs available.
3. Turn to popular job search platforms for help
Improving your chances of finding a job means turning to every possible resource to aid you in your efforts. For example, if you were previously employed in a managerial position and are looking for something that is guaranteed to be available, like Walmart careers, you can turn to a resource like EmploymentHub to help you find your next job that is the right fit for your needs and your skills. The more job hunting resources you turn to, the better your chances of landing work.
4. Beef up your resume and practice your interview skills
Companies choose to hire you based on first impressions. In both online and real-life settings, hiring managers are looking at important items like your resume and the way that you speak about yourself and your achievements. While looking for as many opportunities as possible will help you increase your chances of finding employment, improving your resume and your interview skills will help you to secure a position when you do come across one that you are suited for.
5. Ask around your network to see if you can find opportunities there
No matter where you may have previously worked, chances are that you have built a network over time that may help you secure a job today. Ask both your professional network and your personal network (friends and family) if they know of any open positions that you may be able to apply to. It may feel like a shot in the dark, but you never know when someone you know may be sitting on an opportunity that could be yours.
Job searching is stressful enough, but it can be especially stressful in today’s economic landscape. If you are on the hunt for a job in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, use the tips above to help you find and secure your next role.
