Executive's Guide to Job Search as We Emerge from the Pandemic

To say that the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic have been felt throughout the job market would be a gross understatement. And executives have certainly not been immune to the dramatic impacts that virtually shut down many thriving industries and left their mark on even traditionally “safe” market verticals.

As we begin thankfully to finally emerge from the pandemic’s most severe effects on both the population and the economy, the overall job market still has a long way to go. You hear a lot about industries experiencing shortages of workers, although this phenomenon seems to be concentrated in positions at entry or low levels. For most job seekers, job search is still much more of a challenge than in normal times.

Following is a checklist for executives (and other workers) that will help you navigate a job search as our nation’s and the world’s economy struggle to recover and the great reopening begins:

• Be prepared for what’s next — make sure your résumé and LinkedIn profile are up to date. Make time to track and document your accomplishments.

• Analyze your transferable skills and experience, particularly if you are in an industry that has been negatively affected by the pandemic.

• Remember that some aspects of the job search remain the same — companies still want to hire problem-solvers, your network can help you identify opportunities, and having an accomplishment-focused résumé and LinkedIn profile can help you secure interviews.

• Be prepared to interview for the position virtually (rather than in person).

• Consider temporary and short-term positions, as some companies may be wary of taking on permanent, full-time employees in an uncertain economic environment.

• Adjust your mindset — jobs are available in a pandemic, even if the news makes it seem otherwise. Want proof? Check out sites like Indeed.com, SimplyHired, or Monster.

• Having trouble finding a job in your field? Look for companies that are meeting pandemic-specific needs. These companies may be hiring for temporary, part-time, and short-term opportunities.

• Allow more time for hiring in a pandemic environment. The hiring timeline has grown longer in some cases.

• Consider a short-term or temporary role if you are unemployed. This position may make it easier for you to weather the pandemic and be in a position to get a new role in the future.

• If your current industry is affected by the pandemic, you may want to temporarily change fields during the pandemic, using your existing skills in a new industry in the short-term.

• If you’ve been furloughed by your current employer, develop a job search strategy in case your position is permanently eliminated. Update your job search documents so you can immediately apply for positions if you find yourself without a job.

• Research your state’s unemployment benefit requirements to determine if taking on short-term or part-time work will affect your benefits.

• If a career change is necessary, assess your work history and identify skills and/or experience you can leverage. Seek out opportunities for additional training and learning.

• Keep in contact virtually with your network. Your network can be a vital part of your job search, and staying in touch with people you know through social media, phone calls, Zoom or FaceTime, email, text and LinkedIn messages can help you identify opportunities.

• Be aware that some pandemic-related changes may become permanent — such as virtual job fairs, virtual interviews, and remote work opportunities. Plan for the future and be prepared for whatever comes your way.