Changing Jobs During COVID-19

Thinking of a change? Here are ways to use this time to prepare for your next move

69% of Americans say they don’t think they would be able to find a new job in the current COVID-19 climate. Nevertheless, hiring and recruiting efforts are still going strong in many industries, leading many to consider the possibility—or necessity. Here are some ways to use this time to prepare for your next career move.

1. Self-reflect and evaluate your goals

Before diving into a job search, take some time to reflect on your current situation. 56% of professionals 44 and younger say that working throughout this crisis has made them reconsider if they are in the right job.

Think about the following questions: What do you like about your position now? What is pushing you to leave? Are you using your skills and expertise to their full potential? Are you on a path that can help you achieve your career goals? What qualities does your ideal employer have? 

The answers set you up to find the right role within the right organization. You may already be on the correct path and simply want a change in scenery, or you may need to consider a complete change in direction to accomplish your goals.

2. Boost your skills

Once you’ve narrowed down your path forward, take inventory of your skills and expertise. Most likely, some of them could benefit from a refresher course. Some formal certifications and memberships may even require re-qualification and testing.

Use some of the time afforded by lockdowns and curtailed social activities to boost skills and obtain an advantage over other candidates. Recruiters and employers want to see prospects who continue their professional education, so it’s well worth the time.

LinkedIn Learning and Skillshare are great resources with thousands of courses ranging from data science and IT to photography and leadership. Harvard and Yale are even offering free online courses as well. The more technical and nuanced a position, the more updated certifications and specific education are necessary. 

3. Network online

The days of professional mixers are on pause for the foreseeable future, so online networking is taking the lead. LinkedIn saw a 26% increase in sessions over the last quarter, and that figure is only expected to grow.

Join professional groups and follow key influencers within your industry. Participate in topical conversations, giving well-versed opinions and insight. Attend virtual networking events, webinars, and lectures. Connect with professionals in roles or organizations that you are striving for, and set up a time to talk about the industry. The knowledge you gather and the connections you make could open new doors and unforeseen opportunities.

4. Conduct research

Develop a short-list of desired roles and companies you would like to work for, and follow them online. Getting to know them better allows candidates to speak intelligently about the organization, ask insightful questions, and address their pain points, should they get an interview.

It also provides information on how that organization is handling the COVID-19 pandemic. Take note of how they treat their employees and how they are coping with the crisis. Are they living up to their core values? Is this an organization you would be proud to work for in the future?

Making the change

Recruiting and hiring efforts are still ongoing at companies that seek to keep their candidate pipelines healthy. If you seek out new opportunities, embrace the time afforded by the pandemic to prepare for a potential job switch. It will increase the odds of a successful offer. 

Carrington Legal Search is celebrating 20 years in business: we were in the trenches with our clients during 9/11 and 2008. We partner with our clients to identify leaders and mission-critical talent to shore up and grow companies even during the most challenging times. We are here for you! To make our nationwide network work for you, get in touch at 512-627-7467 or email carrie@carringtonlegal.com.