Starting Your Career in the Time of COVID
A job search can be challenging regardless of the circumstances, but navigating this process during a global pandemic can add significant uncertainty and raise unexpected questions. Chatham’s Office of Career Development has heard from students and alumni who are concerned about what these changes to the economy will mean for the job market. According to a recent article by CBS Pittsburgh, some recent grads are going directly to graduate school in hopes of a better job outlook in a year or two. Others are broadening their horizons by looking for jobs in sectors they hadn’t previously considered. For those entering the job market in this COVID context, Director of Career Development, Kate Sheridan, is here to help. Read on for Kate’s recommendations for confronting this uncertain time head on.
Kate Sheridan
Think short term and get creative
While you may have spent the past few years working towards a long-term vision, your best strategy at the moment is focusing just on the next step. “Think about what you can do today, or during the next 30 to 90 days. This is not about forever, it’s about right now,” says Jeff Berger, CEO of Talent Inc. in this Fast Company article. Taking a job that may not have been on your radar two months ago could provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge in surprising ways. Plus, you stand to gain on-the-job experience that could make you more marketable in the future.
And remember—put your best foot forward by submitting a polished resume for each job you apply for. Be sure your resume presents a cohesive professional identity, a strong skill set, and visual balance; just let us know if you need help.
Adjust your expectations
Your dream job could be hard to come by right now, and that’s okay. Consider how the industries that are hiring could benefit from your particular skill set and expertise. Susan Weil, co-CEO of a career coaching firm, told The Muse “Maybe your dream is to work for a big tech company or a startup that focuses on travel, but the only job listings you are finding are in healthcare or ed-tech. Consider applying to those jobs… to get necessary experience first.”
Follow the Demand
While industries like food service, retail, and entertainment have seen significant job loss, there are a number of companies still actively hiring, and many industries that are still in need of help. According to a survey conducted by Handshake, hiring industries include technology, financial services, government, architecture and construction. Check out this article on The Muse, which highlights additional industries that are still hiring in the midst of COVID-19, including shipping and delivery, online learning, grocery and delivery services, remote communication technology, and more.
Build (and make use of) your virtual network
Now more than ever, staying connected virtually can be a matter of survival. Platforms like LinkedIn were built specifically to keep us connected to professional networks in a virtual world. Chatham recently launched Chatham Connect, a dynamic platform that allows current students to connect with Chatham alumni throughout the world for mentorship, career advice, and social connection. This is a great time to explore both of these platforms and use them to reach out to existing contacts, grow your networks, and set up some informational interviews. And be sure to join Career Development for any upcoming virtual networking events—learn more on Handshake.
Brush Up on Virtual Interviewing Strategies
When you do get an interview, it will likely be virtual. While we are all getting increasingly used to bringing colleagues, classmates, and professors “into” our homes, it’s important to maintain professionalism. Here are some tips:
Dress as though you are interviewing in person to get in the right state of mind.
Make sure your interviewing space is clutter free, quiet, and well-lit. Make sure your background is appropriate.
Download any apps, software, or programs you may be using ahead of time and test the platforms in advance.
Keep a “cheat sheet” nearby that lists a few key words or behavioral examples that may help if you feel stumped by a question.
We can’t control how long the pandemic will last or how it will continue to impact our economy, so try to focus on what you can control. The Office of Career Development is here to share our knowledge, listen to and address your concerns, and support you in navigating your next steps. Log on to Handshake to view upcoming webinars, access our resource library, or schedule an appointment.
Stay safe, be well, and maintain hope for a bright future.