A global pandemic means times are uncertain, stressful and even a bit frightening. While the COVID-19 outbreak has not only caused a health crisis it has also caused an economic crisis as well. In a matter of weeks, millions of people found themselves suddenly out of work; and millions more still are left uncertain about whether their companies will last through this crisis. Conducting a job search during these uncertain times can feel like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t have to be.

While the numbers are bleak and you are probably anxious, there is good news. Companies across the country are hiring right now and many companies still have long-term plans to hire throughout the year. Meaning, the best thing for you to do right now is to continue your job search, despite your anxiety. Follow these tips to keep your job search on track through COVID-19.

Remember, This is Temporary

While no one knows how long this will last, the one thing they can say for certain is that this is temporary. It will end one day and the economy will open back up. The people who kept their nose to the grindstone and kept up their job search throughout the downtime are the ones that will rise up and go the farthest when things get back to something resembling normalcy.

Search Every Day

If you have already lost your job or you are in danger of losing your job, make sure you are doing search-related activities for a few hours every single day. You don’t need to spend eight hours a day searching for jobs as this can be daunting, but you should do a few hours, at least. Then, spend time decompressing with your family, taking a walk outside and looking for silver linings where you can find them.

Be Smart, Be Safe

Many employers are making use of video chats for interviews so make sure you’re comfortable with this technology and how it works. While many are opting for video interviews, some are still holding in-person interviews. If you do meet with an employer in-person, make sure to maintain at least 6 feet of distance, do not shake hands, try to avoid touching metal or glass surfaces, and wash your hands/use hand sanitizer. Not following these guidelines could result in your job search getting cut short.

Be Reachable

Now is not the time to screen calls. If a potential employer can’t reach you, they will move on to someone else as many people are searching for jobs right now. Make sure to check your email throughout the day and respond to any potential employer’s outreach within 24 hours. Keep your phone on you at all times and answer calls from unknown numbers. If you don’t feel comfortable answering every call, make sure that your voicemail is set up as many employers will leave a voicemail. Remember to return these calls promptly so you do not miss out.

Be Reliable

Even being a few seconds late to a phone or video interview can cost you a job right now. Verify that you have the date and time correct and test links to video chats at least an hour before the meeting and notify the employer if there is a problem. Finally, just as you would arrive early to an interview, sign in or dial in at least 10 minutes early – unless you are specifically instructed otherwise.

Insist on Quiet

If you have a family sharing one space, it can be difficult to find quiet for an interview. Luckily, many of us in the job search are in the same boat and employers will understand if a child comes bursting in the room during an interview, but finding a quiet place to hold the interview so that you can concentrate and put your best foot forward. Send your family on a walk or bike ride, or if you can’t find quiet, sit in your car. Ensure that your background is somewhat professional and be aware of what photos and posters may be visible behind you.

Use Your Downtime Wisely

If you have lost your job, it’s important to keep busy. Being in isolation in addition to being unemployed can be a recipe for depression. Just as you block off time every day to search for jobs, block off time to learn a new skill or hone an existing one. There are a myriad of free resources online and many formerly-paid programs are being offered for free as people are struggling with the economic impact of COVID-19. Learning something new will not only pass the time in a constructive way, but it will also help you enhance your resume.

Be Visible On Social Media

Social distancing is a great excuse to forego in-person networking for social networking. So get visible on LinkedIn by participating in groups and getting in touch with contacts you haven’t spoken with in a while. This is also a great time to make professional Facebook and Twitter profiles to share industry-related posts and information.

Work With A Staffing Firm

A job search can be incredibly overwhelming at any time, let alone in these uncertain and stressful times. Working with a staffing firm can help ease your stress while also increasing the chances of finding a good job. If you are looking for a job, please browse Outsource’s open jobs and apply online today or contact our team to learn more about the ways we can help you get working.

Need Help With your Job Search? Contact Outsource Today!

Contact the hiring professionals at Outsource. We are the largest staffing firm in the nation specializing in the placement of low voltage and electrical talent.