Getting a job in pandemic for many of us has almost become a full-time job. We are in unprecedented times with the global job market probably at its worst in decades. Below are recommendations from leading universities, established authors, and glass door blogs compiled into one master post to help you boost your chances of getting a job.
Building Your Communication Skills
Communication is a two-way street. If you are shy, don't be afraid. You are as much important as the other person is even if he or she is a Managing Director. Communication goes a long way in establishing a network and building relationships. Attending a public speaking course will definitely help you in the long run and boost your confidence. Being interested in asking the person more about them helps us to build bridges, get information and knowledge, and creates a network of possible job opportunities. No one likes a talkative self-centered person. How clearly you communicate dictates how easily you can be understood. Again some of direct and some nice and diplomatic – But that who you are and there is nothing wrong.
Improve Your Network
Like we all have our Facebook friends and best buddies, we need to create a “professional network”. These networks are those important people who can advise us, who are influencers in their field, leaders in the office, competitors, decision-makers, hiring managers, etc. Build a professional network based on our subject matter and interests. Attend events and meet new people. Your network will grow and so will your career prospects.
Learn New Skills and Take Online Courses
Surprisingly, it seemed that the experience and knowledge of most candidates I interviewed were limited to the work you do at the office and nothing beyond – No further learning, training, or courses outside the job responsibility. As a result, there was no real reason you can stand out amongst others who do a similar job There are several free online courses available. I have been learning Digital Marketing since March this year and still learning – 90 minutes of learning daily. I did a lot of reading on savings and investment, I realized that knowing about saving and investing, became a life requirement - The "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" series was very informative. I read about people's experts in recruiting and human resources and what makes them so good. I tried to understand what I lack they have mastered. Follow up your Interest and learn more– Knowledge is Power.
Research Your Future Employers and Job Roles
Researching companies of interest to you is very important. You can do market research yourself. The company website shares a lot of information, but connecting with employees at these companies will not only help you learn more about the company, their working style, culture, and how they treat their employees but also help you establish a contact there so that when an opportunity open up you CV can be internally recommended. Knowing if the company has downsized is also important information You may also want to find out suppliers of the company how promptly their bills are paid and the past employees and why they left. Don't be afraid to ask your network for help.
Consider A Business of your Own
Registering a company and conducting business is not always easy and requires far more responsibility and monetary risk, than being an employee. From m costs involved in obtaining the necessary licenses and visas to office overheads and salary may be added stress. But if you know you have the right contacts who can give you business and love working with you, then do a feasibility study on profits and losses before starting- Don’t start a business for the sake of being” business owner tag”. It's not worth the risk. But if you have the resources, it is a very good option, to start small with minimal investment and gradually grow over time.
Become a Freelancer
Help companies generate revenue or support them in their operations. If you have your own visa and adhere to all legal formalities of the country, then using your network (and keeping it to yourself) till you get a job. You may even want to consider working on a commission-based structure. This may work well with employers who want to avoid employee overheads but don't mind sharing a percentage of the new business. They have nothing to lose.
Clean up Your Social Media
The reality is that hiring managers are looking at your social media just as thoroughly as your resume or cover letter. In fact, 45% of hiring managers use social media to learn more about potential candidates. Be careful about what you post and what you “like”. Keep your social media clean.
Help Others
If you are not under financial constraint, then there are plenty of people you can help by offering advice, support, and even using your network to help get someone a job. The family's blessings will be with you and God will bless you in unimaginable ways when you reach out to others unselfishly.
You may want to read these Top 6 tips for job hunt during the pandemic