With financial markets down 20-30% or more, tens of thousands of businesses being forced to close, millions of people in the U.S. and around the world fearing or facing extended furloughs or unemployment, tens of millions more being asked to self-isolate and practice social distancing, and news of the coronavirus epidemic continuing to dominate the headlines, it’s easy to understand why a LOT of people are feeling pretty grim about their careers and job prospects.
Yet – while we all hope for the best and do our best to prepare for the worst – some companies are still hiring, and there is a lot you can do to improve your chances of finding or creating the career you desire, even now… in fact, especially now!
How to Find a Job Right Now
The coronavirus pandemic has hit many industries extremely hard, but it has also seen an increased demand from others, specifically health care, insurance providers, delivery services, and retailers, such as supermarkets, hardware stores, and pharmacies.
Registered nurses, truck drivers and drivers with commercial licenses, customer service representatives, and even software engineers are all still being sought… And, don’t forget the demand for contact tracers!
Yes, some of these positions are entry-level or hourly, but they can help you bridge the gap and make ends meet until the economy turns around or you find something better… and it’s important to note that there are also many supervisory and managerial positions available.
Additionally, many opportunities exist for those interested in working remotely. In fact, remote positions have continued to increase year over year. That was the case during the last recession, and it remains true today.
Of course, just because companies are still hiring doesn’t mean that job hunting right now is easy. But there are things you can do to improve your chances…
For example, if you look at the positions that have been posted in recent weeks on online job search sites like Glassdoor and Indeed.com, you’ll be able to find the companies and positions that are still active in your industry and geographic area, even in the middle of this pandemic.
Remember, not every industry slows down during a downturn, not every company in an industry slows down, and hires happen even when things slow down.
The bottom line is that people DO get hired during layoffs.
And do you know who gets hired during these economic shifts?
The people who don’t give up… those who remain competitive, keep in front of potential employers, and continue searching consistently!
Of course, if you’re looking for hands-on help with any of these things, a career coach or career counselor can help.
Just remember, things may look a bit bleak right now, but this doesn’t mean we can’t turn the current situation to our advantage, both personally and professionally.
You don’t have to like that any of this is happening in order to accept the current reality, and acceptance is the key when it comes to remaining in control and taking positive steps towards a richer, more rewarding future.
It’s just like the 12-Step “Serenity Prayer” says:
God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
and the Wisdom to know the difference.
So, take some time to evaluate those things you can control and change…
Remember, companies are still hiring. So, keep active, stay in front of potential employers, and use this time to learn the skills and make the connections you need… If you do so, you’ll not only be able to stay focused and more optimistic right now, you’ll also increase your chances of finding work today and be far better off as we come out the other side of this crisis!
And don’t forget, I’m here to help! If you have any questions regarding your career options, where you should start, or if I may be of any other assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me at (510) 486-1188 or karenroselpcc@bayareacareercounseling.com. I look forward to helping in any way I can!
[ Back to Articles ]