Covid-19: Adapt your job hunting strategy
During the special period linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, all job seekers must adapt to a new context.
Here are seven useful tips to help you continue and succeed during this evolutionary period.
1 .Make LinkedIn your primary job hunting tool
First of all, update your profile and maintain your personal brand by sharing content related to your expertise. Search for opportunities by following the pages of companies that interest you. Then, connect virtually with those companies and members of their networks. Find out how by reading points 1 and 3 in the following blog post on networking.
2. Target your search in areas that are still in demand
Explore industries where demand has remained or increased for certain products and services, such as healthcare, the agri-food supply chain, medical equipment and pharmaceutical products, IT, video games and online entertainment. Some areas are still looking for a variety of qualified candidates. Plus, considering the labour shortage that prevailed until recently, other organizations are continuing their activities remotely, recruiting for their current needs or preparing to relaunch their operations after the crisis.
3. Offer your skills to help companies manage the crisis
Send applications that are personalized and distinctive. In your communications, explain how your skills could help employers in the current situation. For example, expertise in HR management, supply chain management, cybersecurity, law, communications, or health and safety could help you stand out. Here are some websites where you can find freelance opportunities: Entremetteuse, Pigiste Québec, Workhoppers.
4. Prepare for long phone and video calls
These practices will become more and more common. It’s a good idea to test the performance of your internet network and update your software if necessary. Choose an appropriate space in your home and set up a professional workspace that is well-lit and free of interruptions. Finally, try out a few online conference platforms to test your camera and microphone (ex: Skype, Microsoft Teams, Zoom).
See how to prepare by reading the following blog post:
5. Show your ability to adapt quickly
It has never been more important to reassure recruiters regarding your flexibility. Be technically ready to work from home if your position allows. If you succeed in getting a contract, even a temporary one, make sure you stay in regular communication and show your supervisor the quality of your work.
6. Stay in contact with employers you have already met
Stay up to date. Even if recruitment has been suspended due to the application of preventive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, the position might reopen once things get going again. Consider sending a follow-up email mentioning that you understand the situation and indicating that you will still be available when things are back to normal.
7. Continue to develop your expertise and acquire new skills
While you wait, you can update your skills and perhaps even acquire new ones to enhance what you have to offer. There are a vast number of free webinars and online tutorials on YouTube. All you need to do is choose a keyword. Master new software or participate in free training sessions offered by colleges and universities or specialized organizations related to your profession (ex: CPAs, CPHRs, BDC). Start by taking a look at the sectoral workforce committee for your specialty.
https://www.cpmt.gouv.qc.ca/reseau-des-partenaires/comites-sectoriels_en.asp
Volunteering with essential services can also be an opportunity to contribute to your community and get your name out there.
The current situation presents new challenges for all job seekers. However, many resources are available to help you. Stay proactive—there are ways to continue your job search. New practices will be developed to allow recruiters and job seekers to meet, and new needs will emerge within companies.