Job Searching: Strategies in Covid times

Nations are struggling to mitigate the aftermaths of the coronavirus outbreak and revitalize their economies (whether it is underdeveloped, developing, or developed countries). As a result, countries saw lowered growth projections, wherein businesses faced a reduced demand. As a result, world economies encountered an ever-decreasing availability of jobs and business opportunities. But first, it is necessary to assess the multiple challenges the pandemic has brought and formulate novel strategies to combat the adversities.

Countries worldwide have faced job losses due to the current pandemic; for instance, the United States of America encountered a loss of thirty-three million jobs, as reported by The Guardian. Job losses occur when companies retrench or lay off employees because of lesser demand for their product(s) or service(s). During the pandemic, economic activities were heavily compromised worldwide, affecting millions. For a considerable time, there was a vicious circle of job losses, reduced incomes, and consumption, resulting in lesser demand and vibrancy in the economies. Such adverse and sudden widespread changes demanded new strategies and adaptability.

Reskilling and Re-innovating

Employment seekers seek a job in a relatively saturated market with fewer opportunities. Public sector and government organizations seek a more competent and skilled workforce. Considering your eligibility and interest, candidates must upskill their CV and conduct by considering the following points:

1. Adapting to the new normal: Covid19 pandemic packed along the culture of quarantines, home isolations, and work from home (remote working). The outbreak has made companies more flexible and innovate the pre-existing work culture. Many companies have decided that remote work, introduced as a temporary measure, will stay with them for longer. Candidates must be ready to complete work from home or in a hybrid work mode. Few companies have regularly decided to get some of their work done remotely. Thus, companies will need less space for a reduced number of on-site employees and save on the cost of space, travel, etc. Remote working requires the effective use of digital tools. Therefore, candidates willing to work in industries using remote work must develop their skills accordingly.
2. Readiness for telephonic/video interview: Most companies are more likely to use telephonic or video interactions for hiring skill-based professionals. So, if you’re looking for a private sector job, chances for you getting interviewed remotely are inevitable, and one should be developing skills and confidence for that.
3. Broadening job search criteria: with ever-expanding technological advancements, job seekers have multiple opportunities to consider. Candidates should define the area of work one is looking for and list the organizations that may provide such work opportunities. Also, one should explore the level or position for which you may be considered eligible. Every job seeker must be apparent whether to look for a job locally, in nearby cities, nationally, or globally. Candidates should not depend on a single newspaper or web portal for searching for job opportunities. 
4. New age social media: Many employers seek more convenient ways to source candidates from social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. At the same time, young as well as seasoned professionals are creating their profiles on relevant social media platforms. A LinkedIn profile is especially recommended as companies are relying on them for hiring international talents. Also, one should register their updated resume on different job portals.
5. A good CV: The candidates should design and update their resumes carefully to highlight their skills, competencies, and strengths. A resume/CV is the first introduction to the employer, and the job seekers can only be approached if one’s resume creates a positive impact. 
6. Referrals: In many new-age companies, a system of referral in which existing employees may provide references of people known to them to their company for a suitable potential role. This referral doesn’t influence the selection process but is indeed helpful for candidates to know the openings beforehand.

These changing times require a new, practical, and effective change in management principles and the job market. Change means the difference in status quo and uncertainty about the future. In the present scenario, the candidates must better equip themselves, reinforce valuable learnings, update knowledge and skills and become more aware of the available opportunities.