Who could have guessed that this is how 2020 would be going? As of March 26, over three million Americans had filed for unemployment. Never before in the history of the United States has this number risen so high.
Right now we are looking at unprecedented times, and nobody knows how long this will last. What can you do to get through this time, and what can you do to look for a job during COVID-19? The virus has taken control of the job market, but you can take this opportunity to better manage your short term outcome.
So, how can you survive this turbulent economy right now?
FIRST, THINK SHORT-TERM AND GET CREATIVE
Start today to think about what you can do today, or during the next 30, 60, or 90 days. This may not be about forever, but it is about right now.
Compile your top skills and then search for opportunities to leverage these in a different way and from a different angle. Could you help a hospital with temporary expansion or could you assist in delivering food to the elderly? Would you be able to assist with organizing food bags for the needy or take on working at a big box or grocery store chain? Consider looking into companies that are mass hiring to keep up with demands. This is a great way to secure a short term job until the economy recovers. Try looking into telecommuting job opportunities. This is an option you can do from home.
Get creative about how you can leverage your skills virtually. You can use special talents such as providing lessons online. These online lessons could include teaching, music, cooking, painting, exercising, or consulting.
Also, try the local small businesses that may require additional assistance, but are too overwhelmed to post jobs. Maybe they are seeking another manager to onboard their new employees, someone to enhance their website to handle their online orders, or even someone to stock shelves or package goods for shipping. At least contact them and ask if help is needed.
REDO YOUR RESUME
In order to stand out, it is important that you have a professional and up to date resume. When applying for jobs remotely, in or out of your industry, read the job description carefully, and showcase the skills that will match the employer’s job description. Even though you’re searching for short-term employment, you should apply the same best practices that help you stand out in a crowded job market.
PREPARE TO INTERVIEW VIRTUALLY
While we socially distance ourselves, job interviews will likely be held virtually. When it is time to interview, make sure you’re prepared to do so virtually. Most of the same rules and suggestions will apply. For example, dress as though you are going to the company’s office, even if you’re being interviewed over the phone, this will help you set the right state of mind. Have a positive tone and a good attitude. Prepare by doing the following:
Your environment should be a place that’s quiet, clutter-free, and well lit.
For phone interviews, you may want to have the job description near you and a cheat sheet of questions to ask the employer. Have talking points about your qualifications and questions to flow the conversation.
For video interviews, download any necessary programs (or software updates) ahead of time and test the equipment with a friend to familiarize yourself with the process and ensure the setup such as the volume, camera position, and lighting, is correct. Fit the room as if you were in an office for the interview.
Try to identify virtual job fairs to give you even more tips and opportunities. Finally, reach out to head hunters and staffing companies that may have more specific services to assist you in finding a job
INDUSTRIES THAT ARE STILL HIRING DUE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS
Shipping and delivery companies: The transportation industry is booming with all of the online deliveries.
Online learning companies: Now that over 30 million children are out of school, it’s time for online schools to be set up, which are swiftly expanding capacity.
Grocery stores and delivery services: Grocery stores are your friends. Major chains are hiring in-store shelf stockers and delivery staff. Grocery delivery services and apps are also hiring.
Remote meetings and communication companies: There are a variety of these companies that are expanding rapidly to meet the needs of consumers and businesses.
Think broadly: There is no shame in a paying job of any kind, especially during a pandemic. This is also a great time to get your skills up and or indulge in training programs online. Make the most out of this time.
Our firm has a list of resources:
During the pandemic, our firm has created a list of specific companies that are hiring and we try to keep an updated list of job fairs. We are not a job placement service but are trying to provide our community contacts with information, albeit limited, that we have gathered! Give us a call at 815-600-8950 if you would like to discuss available resources.
Written by Arianna Fleckenstein
We are here to assist you
We are aware that everyone has been affected by the recent response to COVID-19 but we hope that you find some comfort in knowing that we are still operational and here to assist you.
Whether you are a current client or if you are looking for family law or estate planning assistance, our team is here for you and will continue to be available to address your concerns.
To the extent possible, we will offer remote consultations and provide services from a distance.
You may message us here, email our office at info@sterkfamilylaw.com, or call 815-600-8950 and one of our team members will be able to assist you.
This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.