Job searching during a pandemic market

Courtesy of COVID-19 we’ve seen a shift in the employment market, and with over three million people on the Job Keeper benefit it seems the revive of the job market is a little way off. The events in 2020 so far have created confusion on so many levels, many job seekers are feeling lost and have a lack of direction. The shift of power from what was a tight labour market to an employer driven market is on its way.  Where there is an oversupply of job seekers to open positions, it’s easy to feel as if the employer has more power. Now more than ever the ability to stand out from the crowd will prevail.  

 

Job seekers must remember that it’s not just about getting the job, but also evaluating if this opportunity is the right one for them — just like how a hiring company is assessing their job applicants. Here at mme, we’ve put together the below tips on “job searching during a pandemic market”:

 

• Be flexible – Consider if short term contract roles could fit in with your current circumstances 
• Talk to your network and professional connections  
• Define your ‘dream’ job ie not that you just want to work in “marketing” be specific in your preferences. 
• Identify one to ten companies you really want to work for, rather than just sending hundreds of CVs out. Choose companies to work for not just based on industry, but also company size, culture, location, and other attributes.  
• Research industries that maybe hiring and search for openings. Don’t just look on the traditional job boards use recruitment agencies, employment websites, LinkedIn and social media groups. The Job Outlook website is a good place to start. It highlights industries and jobs that are expected to grow in the near future.   
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to each role you are applying for.  
• Identify measurable achievements to demonstrate performance. This is more powerful than highlighting processes. 
• Ensure your LinkedIn is up to date and edit any other social media platforms so they are appropriate for future employers’ eyes – they will research you! 
• Follow up your applications. 
• Ensure you are aware of the key competencies. During an interview display/discuss these competencies. This demonstrates your high level of understanding of the role.  
• Think about how you would conduct yourself in the role for the first 90 days. Outlining your vision for what you plan to achieve in the first 90 days. This is always well received. 
• If you plan to negotiate wages make sure you have researched your market value and be prepared to back yourself. In this climate, consider asking for non-financial benefits, like flexible hours. Or think long term and talk about reassessing your salary after a certain timeframe or KPI’s have be meet.

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