The COVID-19 crisis has shown that nothing is absolutely stable, whether it’s an industry or profession. Entire major sectors were impacted, such as tourism, air travel, exhibitions and events, the entertainment industry, retail, restaurants, and hospitality.
Similarly, the COVID pandemic has hit millions of professionals working in these fields, especially those who could not transition to remote work.
Well, I hope we’ve all learned lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated economic crisis that has so strongly impacted the labour market. Here are the key takeaways for the future, in my view.
Lessons from the Coronavirus Crisis for Job Seekers
1. Have backup skills and professions.
Don’t be afraid to change industries to gain diverse experience and be better prepared for potential sharp turns in your career in the future.
2. Try to choose a profession and industry that are less dependent on economic crises or booms – something that will always be in demand.
3. Ensure you have savings.
It’s very important to have a financial safety net, for a longer period than previously thought. Try to create additional income streams. Learn to manage your finances and budget wisely. Don’t rush to spend your first paycheck at a new job.
4. Professions that can at least partially be done remotely are more preferable.
5. Take care of your physical and mental health, and that of your loved ones.
6. You may prefer to transition to freelancing or entrepreneurship.
7. Strive to be the best in your profession, field, or company.
This will protect you from being laid off in case of downsizing. And even if you do get laid off, it will be much easier to find a job in your specialty at a competing firm.
8. Avoid employers who don’t care about employee health, working conditions, or providing at least a decent level of compensation.
No matter how desperately you need a job, this can backfire in terms of health issues and more.
9. If you have free time due to quarantine, lockdown, company downtime, or forced leave – use it effectively for self-education, health, and more.
10. Intensify your job search efforts.
Utilize as many job search methods as possible, carefully prepare your resume and cover letters, and thoroughly prepare for each job interview. If needed, offer the employer a video format for the first job interview.
Job Search Tips During the Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Period
1. Look for remote work.
Since many employers are transitioning staff to remote work, take advantage of this trend and proactively seek out remote opportunities.
2. Request remote work from your employer.
If you already have a job, you can take the initiative and ask your boss to transition you to remote work. They may not do it on their own, thinking it’s not possible.
3. Change your specialty.
This doesn’t always mean changing your entire profession. Sometimes it’s enough to switch industries while continuing in your specialty. The industry change may alter the job requirements, but that’s much easier than a complete career change. Plus, you can gain very valuable, even unique, new experience.
4. Be cautious with job searches in the most crisis-affected industries.
Yes, there may be significant recovery growth, but the risks are also high. Especially since repeated pandemics with lockdowns and other restrictions are not excluded.
5. Transition to self-employment/freelancing.
This can be a great option for those who prefer freedom and independence.
6. Provide consulting services in your specialty.
If you have accumulated significant experience in your profession, you can start earning by teaching and sharing your expertise with others.
7. Start your own business.
Business doesn’t have to be something huge. You can start a small venture and do something you love. It’s better if it’s something unlikely to be restricted. But even if it is, at least it will be your passion.
I hope these tips will help you protect yourself from possible future economic upheavals.
Wishing us all fewer crises, and in any case, don’t be discouraged.
