Job Hunting Post-Covid

Light at the end of the tunnel

There is no doubt that it is a tough time for job seekers. The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in many job losses, particularly in retail and hospitality. But, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. With businesses making preparations for life after Covid, more and more job vacancies are being posted online. Health and social care vacancies are on the rise, while funding has begun for hundreds of nurse apprenticeships in England. Applications have opened for jobs in engineering, web programming and graphic design, as well as teaching and logistics professionals, who played a key role in keeping the country going at the height of the pandemic.   

If you have used this time wisely, you might have updated your CV, networked online to build up your profile, or boosted your skills by enrolling on a training course. If you have not managed to prepare for your job hunt in this way, it is never too late to get started. (You can read our advice on starting your job search in the career guides section of the Job Fairs website.) 

Changing business operations

As the pandemic has changed the way many businesses are operating, much of the day-to-day work has been taken online. This includes the recruitment process. For job hunters, this means they must be prepared to search for roles online via company websites or recruitment sites, and actively apply for them via email or by completing an online form. If you are then invited to interview, you can expect to be interviewed through a conferencing platform, such as Zoom or Skype, for example.

Job hunting post-Covid is certainly challenging, so we have put together a few tips to help you secure a new role… Good luck!

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself

Job hunting is hard work – and the current climate means it is even tougher for candidates right now. Don’t be disheartened if you experience rejection. It is part of the course. If you don’t give yourself a timescale, you will feel better. Instead, be kind to yourself and use the time to work on your credentials. If you make use of the government’s Universal Credit scheme, you can remove the financial burden associated with finding work. 

Keep on top of your job hunt

Situations change on a daily basis, so make sure you have a daily schedule for looking for vacancies. Be organised, with an up-to-date CV and covering letter, ready to send as soon as a new job is posted. Competition is fierce at the moment, so strike while the iron is hot and do not delay your application. It is a good idea to keep a log of all your job search activities, so you can follow up at a later date.   

Think outside the box

If you have previously worked in the entertainment, travel or event industry, you might find there are no current roles available to you. Do not be discouraged. Instead, why not be flexible in your job search requirements? Some sectors are in a stronger position to offer opportunities at the moment. You could train to be an IT technician or a delivery driver, for instance. If you land a role that is not your dream position, you could always explore other alternatives when the dust settles.

Be your own boss

If you have a business idea but have never plucked up the courage to take the plunge, now could be the perfect time. The pandemic has opened up a number of gaps in the market, so if you think you can fulfil a need in your community, be inspired to start your own business.

Don’t limit yourself

The fact that businesses now operate remotely means you are not limited to applying for jobs on your doorstep. If you have noticed a job opening 100 miles away, do not write it off. The pandemic has forced organisations to be open to remote-friendly working, so geography is no longer a major problem.

Stay positive

It goes without saying that this has been a confusing and very difficult year for so many of us. Staying positive and finding a focus is not only important for our wellbeing, but it also offers a great way for us to get through this time. In terms of the job search, try to be patient. The average application process is likely to take much longer at the moment. If you are optimistic and hopeful that the right job will come along in time, you will feel much more relaxed about everything.

Get free help

Check out the National Careers Service, which offers free career tools including a skills assessment and list of current vacancies. There are free training courses and tutorials listed on websites such as this, helping you to gain new skills for your next role. Recruitment agencies are also available to support you in finding a job, whether assisting you with your CV, practising your interview technique, or sharing industry advice. Last but not least, charities such as The Prince’s Trust offer free personal development sessions, as well as mentoring and matchmaking services, aligning job seekers with suitable local employers.