The thought of searching for a job during a pandemic is overwhelming – I get it!
I would be nervous if you weren’t feeling a little overwhelmed. It’s important to understand the urgency of the situation. However, I’m here to tell you that even though the task before you is tall, it’s not impossible.
It’s like hiking a large mountain. If you understand what’s in front of you, chart a course, and have the proper tools, you can make it to the top. And when you finally reach the top of the mountain, it’s often the journey that you reflect back on and appreciate the most.
Today, I’m going to help you chart your course and give you some practical tools to help you navigate the job search process during COVID-19. I’m also going to give you what I believe to be the ultimate tool to help your job search. It’s a real game-changer if you’re willing to give it a shot.
Here’s some information that will give your job search a boost.
Understand That Companies ARE Still Hiring
If you’ve been impacted by a COVID-19 related layoff or are constantly getting bombarded by the news about layoffs and the economy, it can be easy to become discouraged and ask “what’s the point?” Unfortunately, I fear a lot of people fall into the trap under the assumption that there are no jobs available. That assumption is 100% wrong!
Businesses are restructuring based on the current economic conditions, and that results in them eliminating positions that they no longer need or can no longer financially justify keeping. That doesn’t mean they stop hiring completely.
Restructuring sometimes means that new positions are created that need to be filled. In addition, businesses continue to have routine attrition through retirements, resignations and terminations.
Also, let’s not forget that some industries, such as healthcare and retail distribution, have ramped up hiring as a result of COVID-19, and in the coming month industries will continue to go through ebbs and flows as they adjust to economic conditions.
There are STILL jobs available.
The Job Search Is Evolving During The Pandemic
With the amount of people looking for work right now, there will be increased competition. In fact, there’s so many people applying for jobs, employers are getting overwhelmed by the applications. As a result, this creates a hidden job market.
Companies will no longer post open positions on multiple job boards, instead they will limit the postings to only their company websites, or by referral.
That’s why it’s important to have a bucket list of companies that you’re interested in working at. That way you’re always keeping track of potential opportunities and are not relying strictly on job boards. It’s also important to build a strong professional network of people that work at these companies, someone who may be willing to refer you to a position.
Be Ready To Get Around The ATS
We’ve established that the competition is fierce and employers are getting overwhelmed with applications. If you’re applying online, your information may never get past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
You have to get your information directly in the hands of the recruiter. Whether it’s LinkedIn, or some other online resource, there are many ways to find out who the recruiter is. One you do this, it’s important that you don’t waste the opportunity by touting your qualifications, that’s what your resume is for.
When it comes to your email to the recruiter and your cover letter, it’s all about making a personal connection. Tell a story about yourself and your personal connection with the company or open position. This method is called a disruptive cover letter and it’s meant to grab the recruiter at hello.
Not every recruiter will get back to you, and that’s OK. But, in the long run, you’ll have more success applying for jobs this way than you will by applying online.
So, these were some basic tools to keep your job search on track during COVID-19, now it’s time for the ultimate tool — the game changer.
Work It Daily’s Virtual Job Search Summit
That’s right, we’re at it again!
Last month, Work It Daily held its first Virtual Job Search Summit and it was a resounding success. We had over 1,500 people attend the 6-hour summit, and we’re already hearing back from attendees who received job offers.
With the success of the first summit, doing a second one was a no-brainer. If you missed our first summit, this is your chance!
Join me and Work It Daily’s head career coach, Ariella Coombs, on Tuesday, August 18th, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET and learn everything you need to know about modern job search in real-time, for just $10!
This summit is a game-changer, and exactly what you need to give your job search the boost it needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sign up now!
And…..for good measure, here’s some FREE resources that will also help you in your journey.