Managing your job search during a pandemic

Losing your job during a pandemic must be among the most stressful experiences in your career. The slowdown in hiring and lack of jobs expected in the short term is bound to create more anxiety.

It’s important not to give up, but the key to acing that next interview involves not just self-confidence.

When you’re job seeking, it’s tempting to just go ahead and click that ‘Apply’ button hoping that it will lead to a call and perhaps that interview you were hoping for. But any seasoned recruiter will tell you that there is more than meets the eye.

Here are some strategies which can help you get ahead of the curve.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile

Take some time to update your resume and LinkedIn. Did you include your recent achievements? Studies have shown that well-crafted LinkedIn profiles with quantified achievements allows for better reading.

It allows any prospective company and/or recruiter to understand your experience better and better match them to their clients’ expectations.

Updating yourself with the latest technology has to offer as we move towards a digitalized society will also show that you are constantly updating yourself with the times.

Research, Research, Research

It’s common knowledge that researching about the company and the role is crucial to acing that interview. Asking a well-researched and thoughtful question shows that you’ve done your homework and will make a good impression on the hiring manager.

When researching about an organisation, it’s important to ask yourself these questions:

• What are the key criteria for the role?
• How can I fit in with my skillsets and experience?
• What will be my goal within the first 3-6 months in the role?

This will help you further understand the role instead of just rehashing the job description.

Time Management

It is common for your interviewer to ask about that gap in your employment. What did you to keep yourself up-to-date during the layoff? Upskilling yourself through online courses and learning new tools informs your prospective employer that you can manage your time well and without supervision.

One such example is the initiative by the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). In collaboration with online learning tool Coursera, they are providing free access to over 3,800 courses, including professional certificates, for unemployed Malaysians, especially those who are recently affected by job cuts.

This is one such initiative you can make good use of to polish up that resume. It will also help you explain the gap in your employment better.

We are here to help. If you need support with your job search, reach out to us today!