Right now, job hunting is more complicated than ever before. COVID-19 risks, social distancing measures, a challenging job market, and a recession have made finding a job more of a challenge than in recent years. As you keep pursuing your next opportunity, keep these tips in mind to stand out.
1. Polish up your online presence.
In this increasingly digital world, many HR professionals are looking for ways to get a better idea of their candidates. Many are turning to social media profiles and looking for evidence of the candidate’s work online. Spend some time polishing your LinkedIn profile, ensuring that it reflects your most recent accomplishments and any skills you wish to highlight. Also take a look at your other social media accounts, your personal blog, and any other profiles or websites that may pop up with your name.
2. Reassess your skills and be flexible.
Think about how the skills you have developed in your previous roles can be applicable to new opportunities. Highlight those skills in your online presence, résumé, and in interviews–you might find new opportunities. Going into your job search nowadays requires an open mind. The ongoing global situation has inevitably caused changes in demand across industries, so try to be flexible and perhaps look outside your usual field.
3. Practice with video platforms.
Spend some time working with the technology, getting a friend to do a practice run with you if you can. Find a quiet spot with good lighting and try out some of the features of the platform you will be using, such as sharing your screen. Study up on virtual interview tips!
4. Show perseverance.
It is more important than ever to show that you can overcome challenges. Jessica Hernandez, president and CEO of Great Resumes Fast, recommends answering these three questions on your resume:
- What are some challenges you faced during your time in the position?
- How did you address the obstacles you ran into throughout your work experience?
- What was the outcome? Did you overcome? Was it a success? Can you add the result to your list of achievements?
5. Always follow up!
Be sure to follow up with a heartfelt and authentic thank you. Address any questions that came up in the interview and be sure to reiterate your interest and enthusiasm.