There is a lot of uncertainty right now for everyone in so many ways. As a career coach, one of the areas that I am hearing about is uncertainty related to job search. Should you continue your job search right now? Are there places still hiring? The answers are YES and YES.
While there are many things we cannot currently control, focus on what you CAN control. You cannot control what will happen with the COVID-19 virus and you also cannot control what will happen with the economy and relatedly how that may impact companies hiring.
2 things you CAN control right now in your job search are your own preparation and activity.
I’ve outlined below some key activities below.
Preparation:
- Be clear on the type of position you are seeking and how you are positioning yourself.
- Ensure that your resume is updated.
8 Steps to Building an Impactful Resume:
1. Highlight your professional brand with a resume summary statement.
2. Showcase your accomplishments for each role, quantifying where possible and starting each line with a strong action verb.
3. Use a clean, easy-to-read format.
4. Include 10-15 years of work experience.
5. Be sure your resume is ATS (applicant tracking system) compatible, including the use of relevant keywords.
6. Use clear language and no industry jargon.
7. Know your audience – showcase your value.
8. Proofread!
- Update your LinkedIn profile to best showcase yourself professionally online.
8 Steps to Building an Effective LinkedIn Profile:
1. Include a professional photo on your profile.
2. Use the Headline field to showcase your professional brand.
3. Use the About section to tell your professional story.
4. Include relevant work experience.
5. Include all undergraduate and graduate degrees.
6. Obtain at least 3 Recommendations and update your Skills section.
7. Add relevant information to the Accomplishments, Volunteer Experience, Licenses and Certifications sections.
8. Personalize your LinkedIn URL.
- Brush up on your interviewing skills, especially for virtual interviewing.
Activity:
- Reach out to your network! Yes, networking is still important and now more so than ever. Networking is still occurring, just virtually. Connect via phone or video call.
- Focus on the companies of interest to you. Research these companies online and through networking conversations to find out more information.
- Develop your skills. If you need to further develop either technical or soft skills in a particular area, use this time to invest in your professional development. There are many resources available online for free.
- If you need a job right away, then focus on the companies that do have openings during this time.
Use the tips above to organize your job search strategy. What is one area of preparation you would like to spend more time on? What is one activity you would like to spend more time on?
Need help with your job search strategy? Schedule a call with me to learn more about how we can work together to elevate your job search strategy.