Looking for work? Here are 5 tips for job-hunters during the coronavirus pandemic
In the six weeks since coronavirus hit the United States, 30.3 million people have filed for unemployment, ABC News reports.
Finding a job can be tough even in the best of times, but with the economy still mostly shut down in many states, and stay-home orders and social-distancing rules in effect, it may seem impossible.
But there are some things job-hunters can do to help even the odds.
Of course, you’ll still need to adhere to all the usual tips for finding work, from coming up with smashing resumes and cover letters to putting your best foot forward in job interviews.
Here’s what you need to know about job-hunting during the coronavirus pandemic:
Be extra patient
Looking for work can already be time-consuming and frustrating, Fortune says. Nowadays that goes double.
“Many companies are still trying to figure out what the coronavirus means for their business,” said Rebecca Binder, senior managing director at RF|Binder, a strategic communications and consulting firm, according to the publication.
“While some companies may have hiring freezes, many are still interviewing for open positions — they just may not be moving as fast as originally planned,” Binder said, Fortune reported. “Show understanding and do not interpret delayed responses as lack of interest.”
Research who’s hiring — and who’s not
Pick companies and industries that are expanding as the nation grapples with the pandemic, advises GlassDoor. For example, tech companies are well-positioned to transition to remote work situations.
GlassDoor also suggests health care and manufacturing companies as the nation ramps up production of personal protective equipment and other necessities.
Some companies, like InstaCart and Amazon, are hiring tens of thousands of workers, NBC News reports. Speaking of which...
Consider a side gig to bring in money
Working for delivery services and remote opportunities while you look for a more permanent position can bring in more money during the pandemic, CNBC reports.
Instacart’s order volume was more than 400% higher in April than last year, according to WBUR.
You can also deliver for Postmates, DoorDash, Uber Eats and Grubhub.
Don’t forget to do your research and look for reviews of the company, or visit SideHusl.com, which lays out ratings for platforms and pay estimates.
“You should absolutely know how much you are going to earn in advance,” Kathy Kristof, creator of the site, told CNBC.
Online tutoring means you can teach English or other subjects remotely, according to CNBC.
“Teaching and tutoring are great ones, and you can teach anything from music and dance to language,” Kristof told CNBC. “Primarily teaching English as a foreign language would be to Chinese kids, where your main requirement on some sites is that you be a native English speaker.”
Highlight remote work experience or skills
With everyone working from home during lockdowns, companies may be considering how to incorporate remote work even after the pandemic is over, Fortune reports.
“Consider adapting your résumé to highlight any previous remote work experience, as well as including any achievements gathered while working from home,” Sherice Sargent, human resources specialist at Insperity, a provider of human resources and business performance solutions, told Fortune.
If you’ve worked remotely before, be sure to highlight that during interviews.
“Companies may look for candidates that exhibit soft skills, such as adaptability, creativity, and productivity,” Sargent said, according to Fortune. “Additionally, applicants should consider emphasizing their technical aptitude, as a remote setup can demand frequent conference calls or video meetings.”
Be ready for virtual interviews
Ace your next Skype interview by preparing beforehand.
Harvard Business School recommends testing your technology, including your microphone and internet connection, before the interview. Make sure the video resolution isn’t grainy.
Set the scene by choosing a quiet room for the interview, ideally in front of a blank wall or by a window with plenty of light. Eliminate distractions by silencing your cell phone and turning off your TV.
Do plenty of research beforehand, as you would with an in-person interview, and be sure to study up on the company. Come prepared with the answers to common interview questions and practice but don’t memorize the answers. Be sure to also ask questions to reaffirm your interest in the company and the position.
Dress appropriately and how you would for an in-person interview — that shows you’re serious about the position.
Be ready to ask specific questions related to the pandemic during the interview such as how the company is supporting employees, guidelines for working remotely, if the pandemic has impacted the company’s plans for hiring or strategy, and the workplace culture, according to Forbes.