Last updated on Aug 25, 2020
With the COVID-19 crisis being the epicenter of everything, it has transformed the business environment overnight and America’s unemployment rates surged over 30 million throughout March and May of 2020.
As of right now, the labor market has been heavily affected. It remains UNKNOWN as we move forward. While everything is changing in a blink of an eye and while everything is shifting remotely, everyone is making that adjustment as well.
Approach the changes with a mindset of curiosity, learning and creation. This is going to be a period of collective innovating, learning and supporting.
When I spoke with my colleagues and clients, they have mentioned how working from home has been an adjustment. There are some aspects that are nice (such as practicing self-care and taking mini breaks/short walks to clear up our minds), but they really miss face-to-face interactions with their participants, clients and colleagues – let alone the feeling of the office environment. While we are all uncertain as to when we will head back to the office, this is considered the new normal.
The shift to remote work not only raises questions for recruiters, HR and business leaders on provisions surrounding the increased use of technology – however, other common matters come into play regarding barriers on communication, performance, employee engagement and motivation.
Below, shows the LinkedIn Workforce Confidence Index Research data on professionals from the following sectors and industry to give thought on their confidence levels in the midst of this crisis.
As I’ve mentioned in my LinkedIn article about the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, many employers have either slowed down their hiring process or they are on a hiring freeze. Many businesses throughout the U.S are also laying off or furloughing their workers as well. But not all are. Employers that are urgently hiring temporary positions fall in the retail sector, tech sector, food service industry, transportation industry.
Before we jump into the tips that career experts and recruiters have to offer. We know that many job seekers feel lost at the moment because they have been unemployed for an extensive amount of time, laid off through no fault of their own due to the crisis, furloughed or because their employer is experiencing budget cuts or is restructuring. Small business owners like mom-and-pop stores are affected as well, so it is totally understandable if you are feeling distressed and flustered about the projections of the future job market.
However, career experts advised that job seekers should remain active and hopeful throughout their job search because the only way that prevents them from landing a job is by not applying and by not making the effort to network.
Now, to the juicy part… you will get to read on some of the tips and strategies that some of the recruiters/career experts from different industries/sectors, including myself have to offer!! I’ve been keeping in touch with these employer partners who have been a tremendous help. I want to thank each and every one of you below who have graciously contributed to this Q&A Interview in offering your own perspectives to job seekers during this difficult time and journey of job searching.
First, I would like to kick off this Q&A!
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
Stay committed to your job search. Many are laid off or furloughed with no plan. Don’t lose hope. Don’t lose track. Don’t just keep applying. Reach out to your network – your friends, mentors, colleagues and supervisors. Let them know that you are in transition, actively searching for work and touch base with employers. Utilize your free time to take an online course and enhance your skills in the industry/sector that you are heading towards. Not to mention, as many businesses are shifting remotely – try to hone your technical skills since moving forward, digital literacy is a required competency to not only many sectors/industries but also, working remotely.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
The advantage is that this pandemic is pushing us to be creative with the tools and resources being offered to us. You may also want to consider looking for a side hustle. Do a lot of research! If you have a hobby that you enjoy and that it is something that you’re passionate about, consider freelance work! If you love to cook, why not start a food blog or a food channel to showcase your chef skills?
You may also want to check LinkedIn or Flexjobs.com for remote/telecommute opportunities. They have many options: part-time, full-time, contract-to-hire, freelance, temporary, etc.
The disadvantage is that many employers are on a hiring freeze or have slowed their hiring processes, which results in the delay to hear back from recruiters as they may need additional time to propose their hiring plans. Rather than waiting to hear back from one employer, continue to pursue other opportunities! It takes many NO’s to finally get to a YES.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
The labor market does not look good at the moment since many businesses are suffering and with the budgets up in the air. While many employers have paused or slowed down their hiring, there are many others who are still hiring for frontline workers! Especially the healthcare sector, food service industry, tech sector, curbside retail, courier services and grocery workers. In addition, big tech companies such as Microsoft, Google, Facebook and Twitter are conducting virtual interviews and permitting new hires to begin work remotely.
Other than that, the job hunt will take longer than usual depending on when the pause lifts. Nevertheless, job seekers should remain alert for job opportunities, network, revamp their resumes, prepare for video interviews and prepare to sell themselves to employers.
Lily Kwan | Recruiter at Amazon
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
The number one tip is to stay hopeful and positive as you never know who you will connect with and when the door for your next opportunity will open. Number two is be prepared for when your next opportunity is here; be ready to showcase your passion and experience. Number three is to have perseverance, a failure doesn’t mean to stop but it means the right time is not here yet. You will want to keep trying as this characteristic will set you apart from others.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
I think the disadvantage is dealing with the uncertainty as no company or person can guarantee how the future will look like. So try to find stability and peace with your decision during this time is key. I think the advantage of conducting a job search right now is you might be joining a strong and stable company if they are still actively recruiting during this unprecedented times. Many companies that are currently hiring acknowledge that we have a lot of great talents who need new homes so please keep looking!
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
The unemployment rate has increased significantly from 3.5% in February 2020 to 13.3% in May 2020. This will increase the time it takes to land on a job as there are more job seekers than roles open during this time. Make sure you are constantly applying to openings and closely monitor your emails for any new messages.
Mary McNevin | Director of Talent Management at U.S. Venture
(Mary has 20+ years of experience in learning, talent management, succession planning and strategy development.)
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
I see there are several opportunities for job seekers during COVID-19. There are two ways to see the “hope” in their job search.
1 – REMOTE = HOPE: Many companies are more open minded to hiring remote workers, after COVID-19. This means, a job seeker can expand their geographic scope for their search. This expanded scope is helpful if the job seeker is working in an economically depressed area or smaller area with limited job prospects.
2 – GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR = HOPE: Many companies are hiring workers. Their businesses have increased due to COVID-19 and this has resulted in more job openings. Although the job may not be what the job seeker wants long-term, this is an opportunity for the job seeker to get their foot in the door.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
Advantages
More remote jobs are opening up.
Remote means more opportunities.
Some companies are growing and are hiring.
Disadvantages
Some companies have been permanently impacted by COVID-19 and may never recover. Some companies have instituted hiring freezes, furloughs or lay offs.
Job seekers may not have the job prospects in the field in which they desire.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
I see the job market picking back up and opening up opportunities for job seekers. I think more companies are open to Zoom interviews and this may help speed up days-to-fill. However, some companies or managers may choose to “wait” until they meet a candidate and if the organization is not yet open, due to COVID-19, this may delay the days-to-fill.
Harris Osserman | Founder and CEO at Talk Hiring
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
My first piece of advice would be to take a look at the job you were in, and evaluate if that role is growing or shrinking in the economy. A little shrinking is ok, but if it’s likely going to shrink drastically, you should explore other roles and industries. Simple Google searches and U.S. Labor data will give you this information.
The good news is that there are tons of job training programs (some free, others paid, some others only charging you if you get a good job after the program) as well as online resources. If you are going in a new direction in your career, make sure that you deliberately find mentors in that role early on in your training process so that they can give you guidance as to what skills you need and companies you should be looking into.
I would guess that a majority of working individuals would appreciate the opportunity to mentor a hard-working job seeker looking to enter a new field. Write a personalized message (LinkedIn or email) to the potential mentor, explaining why you’re interested in their field and how you would like them to help you.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
Advantages
For any jobs that can be done remotely, the opportunities are endless because geography is no longer a factor.
Disadvantages
The whole world is competing with you for those positions.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
It really depends on the industry that you’re looking into. For example, we still have no idea how long it will take for gyms to reopen. Some gyms are doing virtual classes and loaning equipment, but they’re losing money.
I’m sure you’re already doing this, but I would take a look at what stage of reopening we would have to be at for your job to potentially come back. That’ll give you an idea of the length of your job hunt.
Sabeen Pirani | Director of Training at Workforce Professionals Training Institute (WPTI)
(Sabeen has over 15 years of experience in youth and workforce development.)
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
Use this time to build your skills and knowledge in your industry or the industry you want to pursue. There are many free and low-cost workshops, webinars, and courses available online for many industries. Continue your professional development and learning during the pandemic.
Review your online presence and refine your professional brand online. Then follow companies you want to work for on social media. Engage with their online content and posts. You can learn about the company this way as well as build rapport with them. When they do have an opening available, you could use what you have learned online and incorporate it into your cover letter and/or interview.
Some employers I have spoken with said that some of their best employees have come through a social media platform.
Make sure that your network is aware that you are looking for a job and the type of position. Reach out to former supervisors and colleagues to add recommendations to your LinkedIn page. Almost every job I have had has come from networking.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
With many companies transitioning to remote work for the long-term, there is more flexibility in terms of where you live.
Not all industries are currently hiring. You may need to look at your skillset, experience and education to see what can translate to a career in a different industry.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
Currently, unemployment is high and the future is uncertain. Recovery from the pandemic will take a very long time. Companies have to change how they do business and have to quickly pivot when guidance from the government changes.
However, there are companies that are hiring and have an urgent need for workers. The length of the job hunt depends on the industry and where you are located, as each state’s guidance on businesses reopening varies.
Michael Winburn | Talent Acquisition Senior Recruiter II at Spectrum / Charter Communications
(Michael has over 20 years of experience in talent acquisition and recruitment.)
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
You have a lot of acquired skills that employers will be interested to hear about as hiring picks up.
Take the opportunity to involve yourself in industry related trainings and add it to your resume – be ready to speak to its fit in your next job.
Use the downtime to engage with employers on social media. Find an area of interest, search for related roles and opportunities on LinkedIn, and be engaged with what that employer is doing. Perhaps connect with a recruiter if they have identified themselves on social media.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
A couple of advantages
Engaging with your job search keeps you on top of your ‘readiness’ game.
If researching job types find you lacking in some skills, it allows you time to be prepared to answer interview questions related to that skill.
Many Talent Advisors (Recruiters) are taking the down time to build their pipeline of available skilled employees, so they have more time to reply to communications from job seekers.
When employers are re-filling their open roles, as they post jobs, employees who are laid off will definitely be the ones who are applying, but if your skills are stronger than those, you have a good chance of getting your foot in – now that spots are opened.
A couple of disadvantages
The disadvantage of job searching now is, only its impact on your psyche. Being aware that fewer employers are posting jobs online, confirms that we’re not back to full productivity as a nation.
You may need to or have to address the fact that you may have to engage in temporary work for the time being.
You may have to be willing to take on roles that you’ve done in the past to get back into the job market if your last role type isn’t available.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
The Telecom job market is an essential business, so in almost all cases, they are still hiring.
Jobs that weren’t deemed essential have suffered furloughs and layoffs. So, in many cases, before they hire new staff, they will re-hire furloughed staff. This could delay the time frame before employers identify true “vacant spots”.
Melissa Carter | Former Recruiting Manager, Acting Associate Manager/Talent Acquisition at Coach and Diesel
(Melissa has over 7 years of experience in training, recruiting and leading in the retail sector.)
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
First, ensure that your resume and LinkedIn are up to date. Write a list of 20 companies that you are passionate about and want to work for. After you navigate this important task, research the CEO, Director of HR and the individual who is in the current role that you want to interview for. Befriend them on LinkedIn and review their feed. React to the posts that inspire you. Soon you will see that your new mentor may invite you into their network! Don’t get offended if they do not engage back, remember you have a list of 20 people – at least one person will respond! Also, don’t forget to integrate freelancing gigs and independent contracts on your resume.
Second, build your digital relationships. Whether it be with a Happy Hour Zoom Call, LinkedIn or Instagram Live; make sure you socialize! Although it feels like no one is hiring, they are. Brands first have to strategize what the New Normal is. People Centric companies, will take care of their internal talent first. In today’s climate, these are the brands that you want to align yourself with. This new consciousness is new for everybody and you want to ensure that the potential company you will work for is putting you first!
Third, take a course that will strengthen both your resume and your skill set. What you did while you were sequestered in your home for 4 months will be of interest to the person interviewing you.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
The advantages for conducting a job search at this time are:
It gives you the opportunity to build genuine relationships. A company may not be hiring now, but may think of you when they are.
You can learn something new that inspires you will also deliver a passive income. Who knows your passion could become your employment!
The disadvantages for conducting a job search at this time are:
The HR manager responses time might not be swift, so the interview process may be longer.
Job descriptions are changing over night, what you were qualified for last week you might find yourself unqualified this week. Because of the climate we are in, companies are assessing their needs and in doing this, they are becoming leaner.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
The labor market is more unpredictable than ever, but I obviously don’t have to tell you this. I think most companies will become completely digital, hire less, and allow more individuals to work remotely. In addition, I think companies will now rely on independent contractors and freelancers instead of employing an entire team.
Kai Deveraux Lawson | Director of Community Engagement, Global Culture at WPP and Producer & Co-Host at Mixed Company Podcast
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
There are still jobs available. The current climate just requires more strategic thinking in how you go after them and how you stand out for the roles. This is a good time to think about your STRETCH skills. Did you intend to be a strategist? If so, could you use those skills in an Account Management role? Also, start reading the trades. Pay attention to who is winning new business. If agencies are winning new business, they are hiring to support that new business.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
I think the disadvantages are clear, it’s a recession and jobs in the traditional sense seem scarce. On the advantage end, I would send this climate forces us to rethink what industry and valuable skills look like. When I graduated college it was the tail end of the last recession, and it was hard for most of my friends to find work. Especially those of us that wanted to work in music and magazines. BUT, we also discovered that this social media thing we were doing for fun, was actually a marketable job skill and suddenly everyone needed our expertise. This is a time to pivot and decide “WHAT ELSE AM I GOOD AT”.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
We’re in a recession, in the middle of a pandemic and navigating the cultural landscape is hard. This to me, means there is opportunity in the unknown. I think the length of your job hunt is only affected based on what you’re looking for. This is a time to be open with your options and to gain new skills, these things will lead you to your dream career. If you spend time looking for your dream job, in the immediate moment, that might take a while.
Edward Lai | Vice President of Business Development at Bensonhurst Center and Fairview Nursing Home and Adjunct Professor of Church Leadership at Christian Bible Institute & Seminary
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
COVID-19 has caused many businesses to shut down or downsize, and as a result many in the workforce are now looking for new employment opportunities. The sudden surge of job seekers in the market made job seeking a lot more competitive. Remain hopeful, folks, my advice is go look for jobs outside your comfort zones; some industries are still blooming and is hiring on a regular basis. Look for home care and healthcare related jobs even for if it is temporary assignments until your job prospects get better.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
Obviously the disadvantages in conducting job search at this time is the high numbers of unemployed looking for work. At the same time, summer is approaching which also means that new college graduates are looking for employment for the very first time. The advantages? Well, people are not actually seriously looking yet! Most folks are still contemplating whether to return to work or to stay home for the pandemic. This creates a perfect opportunity for y’all looking to jump the line and get a head start! Start early, start now!
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
Well, there is certainly a demand in the job markets within some industries, but most folks are still waiting on the “opportunity” to go back to their old job, industry and pay. The labor market is unhealthy, with the willingness to hire employers, not being able to find workers to fill job openings and capable workers unable to find their preferred employment. I think job seekers will find the interview process shortened, with most employers’ elect to go with less interviews before making hiring decisions during the pandemic.
Amy Geffen | Career Coach Expert at GetFive, wiseHer and President & Chief Career Coach of GeffenCareers
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
Now is the perfect time to re-connect with former colleagues, supervisors, and long lost friends. Networking is key during this time to expand your network and deepen your relationships. You need to re-write your resume, re-connect with people, and research companies where you would like to work.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
The advantage is a lot of people think this is not a good time, so they have stopped looking. But it really is. So, put yourself out there instead of hiding and staying passive. You may take the time to expand or deepen your skills by taking a course or two online. There are many free courses available.
The disadvantage is that there will be more people looking for jobs, but they may not have the skills in a particular area.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
For growing industries such as technology, healthcare and education, especially distant learning and social work, there are many job openings. For other areas, expect a longer job hunt of several months or more.
Daniel Gonzalez | Operations Recruiter at CyraCom Language Solutions
(Daniel has 4+ years of prior experience in recruitment, training and development, sourcing and talent acquisition with LiveRamp, Amazon Web Services, Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan Chase & Co., and Univision Communications Inc.)
So I just want to be very transparent about one thing and that is that my responses are a reflection as a recruiting professional and not as a CyraCom employee.
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
STUDY. Try your best to brush up on your technical skills and be open to virtual interviews; this will take some time. If you have the time, search through the Internet for free workshops on effective communication.
RESEARCH. Stay up-to-date with current market trends and industries that are expected to excel during this time. Jobs will be redefined and will evolve. (Will benefit out of this) – older jobs will be replaced with newer jobs.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
The advantages… Self-reflection. Take this time to reflect on your best qualities, how frequently did you use these attributes (did you practice them enough?) and ask yourself, “Where do you want to take these skills?”
If you want to develop some new skills – create a list of those skills. I promise there is a job that exists and matches your skill set. Trial and Error – try to schedule as many mock phone/virtual interviews as possible. You may feel rusty during the first few but afterwards it will feel natural and you’ll have fun along the way!
The disadvantages… Supply and Demand. Right now, it may feel like there are more job seekers than job openings. This is no longer a candidate’s market. This is just basic economics. Roll with the punches and try your best to keep your head in the game. If an interview did not go in your favor, try again. I have been in your shoes and I learned more about myself during this process.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
Right now, the job market is very competitive as there are more job seekers than job openings… from the way it currently looks. As the economy slowly reopens in phases, I anticipate newer (perhaps virtual) jobs to be created. Historically, job searching during the summer can be painstakingly slow so the length of a job hunt will take more time than usual. By this fall, NYC will be presented with some very unique interviewing dynamics and more jobs will be opened as companies adjust during these uncertain times.
Cindy Joyce | Executive Recruiter / Search Consultant for Nonprofit and Mission-Driven Organizations / Human Resources Consultant / Founder & CEO at Pillar Search & HR Consulting
(With 25 years of experience in recruiting and human resources, Cindy has had the opportunity to work with truly great organizations such as City Year, Harvard Law School, and Lindauer Global.)
• What tips/advice would you offer job seekers to remain hopeful during their job search in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic?
Stay positive! That can be easier said than done. However, a positive attitude goes a long way, and you will come across better in interviews than those with a negative attitude.
Also, be patient. The way that companies and HR professionals have traditionally hired has been disrupted, and everyone is learning how to hire in the “new normal”. This may mean that the process takes longer than it used to.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages in conducting a job search at this time?
The advantage right now is that with companies more apt to have remote work, it can mean that you are no longer limited to a specific geographic area.
The disadvantage is that there are so many people seeking employment right now, so you will need to stand out from other candidates. Brush up your resume, have a killer cover letter, and be sure to have a complete and well-written LinkedIn profile.
• What does the labor market look like at the moment to you? How would this affect the length of a job hunt?
The job market is tough, as many roles have been eliminated or furloughed. However, there are always jobs that are essential and must be filled, and some industries and companies are actually growing through the downturn.
Careers with Michelle 