Covid-19 Job Hunting Strategies That Get Results

The hard truth is clear: many people will have to find a new job when this crisis is over. Some people – maybe even you – may have to find one right now, even before the lockdown is history.

Perhaps you’ve been furloughed, or perhaps your industry is at risk.

Rather than wait and see, why not prepare for the worst right now? There’s no guarantee your old job will still be around after the crisis.

Yes, it´s easier to just wrap yourself in a big blanket and pretend everything will be all right.

But don’t be fooled into thinking your job is safe – get ready to shift career or change job now. No one is immune to a job loss or a job change even at the best of times … never mind today!

Sectors that will be particularly hard hit include art & drama, TV & film, hospitality & music events, leisure, tourism and holiday companies, hotels, catering, management consultancy, advertising, public relations, aviation, fashion, and transport and distribution.

Could you be amongst the unlucky ones? Those who can be flexible, accommodating and willing to try new things will survive.

Here’s how to navigate uncharted waters and make your job hunting as painless and efficient as possible.

Why Capabilities Matter

Think in terms of skills and capabilities, not just job titles. After all, if your industry is going to be one of the Covid-19 casualties, other industries may have different titles for the type of work at which you excel.

Do you have a list of target companies in mind? Make one and expand it with a few searches.

Start studying other industry sectors to get an idea of where you might fit in. Evaluate how your experience and skills are transferable. Think about stepping out of your comfort zone.

Read job descriptions to look for skills and experience you know you have. Can you re-word your CV or LinkedIn profile to take advantage of how different companies (or industries) phrase things? This makes it easier for employers to see you’re a good fit.

Cover all the bases with a multi-channel approach that includes Google searches for job boards, but also personal and professional contacts from previous jobs and networking events.

This means searching for jobs by location, salary, and keyword while also emailing the people you know. Check in with recruiters directly.

The Power of LinkedIn

This is especially true on LinkedIn, which is used by most recruiters. It’s also the best social media platform at your disposal when it comes to job searches and creating a “brand” you can use to heighten your appeal. Why be just [Job Title] in a crowd when you can be the [Insert Specialty Here] Expert For Companies Who Need [Pressing Problems] Solved?

This helps you gain a reputation for being good at what you do. To build that reputation, consider writing and publishing articles on LinkedIn. Periodically share valuable content. Be active in comment threads where applicable.

By increasing your LinkedIn visibility, you’ll improve your ability to be discovered and contacted by the most desirable recruiters and employers.

But don’t be too passive. Create a short message for selected contacts that explains how you add value and what you’re seeking. Is there a way you can personalise the message based on an article or interview your contact has just published? Include a call to action requesting a phone chat to explore employment possibilities or a referral.

In the meantime, ensure all your CV and LinkedIn data is updated and consistent. Write down every job you apply for, and document contacts and referrals. That makes it much easier to follow up with the right company at the right time and also to be prepared when an employer calls unexpectedly.

Become Your Own Project Manager

If it helps, think of your job search as a project complete with to-do’s, schedules, milestones, goals, and regular progress assessments. Even if you’re not a professional project manager, take a professional approach to organising your job search. You’ll be much better off than someone who takes a hit and miss approach to getting things done.

Remember that Covid-19 job search survivors will have to be creative and adaptable to win through.

That includes recognising areas where your job search skills may not be up to par. Do you need help crafting a compelling sales pitch for your CV or LinkedIn profile? Do interviews scare you? Are you one of those people who’s brilliant at selling other things, but not yourself?

Here at Career Consultants we can help you to overcome those pain points if you’re lacking confidence or motivation during this crisis. Just think about it … can you really afford a wait-and-see approach during what may be the most pivotal employment crisis of the decade?

Help is only click or an email away.  Do reach out to us by filling in the form on this page and we´ll suggest ways to win through in this job market.