The Dos and Don’ts of Job Searching During a Pandemic

1. Do utilize online job search resources: As the pandemic has forced many businesses to shut down or operate at reduced capacity, job seekers should utilize online job search resources such as job search websites and job boards to find job opportunities.
2. Do network online: While in-person networking may be limited during the pandemic, job seekers can still network online. This can include connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, attending virtual networking events, and participating in online industry groups.
3. Do tailor your resume and cover letter: To stand out in a crowded job market, job seekers should tailor their resumes and cover letters to the specific job they are applying for. This can help highlight their skills and experience that are most relevant to the job.
4. Do practice for virtual interviews: As more companies shift to virtual interviews, job seekers should practice for virtual interviews by testing their equipment, practicing video calls, and preparing answers to common interview questions.
5. Do stay positive: Job searching can be a stressful and challenging process, especially during a pandemic. Job seekers should stay positive and focus on their skills and strengths to maintain their confidence.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t apply for jobs you’re not qualified for: While it may be tempting to apply for any job that is available during a pandemic, job seekers should only apply for jobs that they are qualified for. This can help ensure that their application is taken seriously by the hiring manager.
2. Don’t ignore job requirements: When applying for jobs, job seekers should pay close attention to the job requirements. If the job requires a specific certification or skillset, job seekers should ensure that they meet these requirements before applying.
3. Don’t be too aggressive: While it is important to follow up on job applications, job seekers should be careful not to be too aggressive in their follow-up. This can come across as pushy and may harm their chances of getting the job.
4. Don’t neglect your online presence: With more companies conducting virtual interviews and researching job candidates online, job seekers should ensure that their online presence is professional and up-to-date. This can include updating their LinkedIn profile and removing any unprofessional content from their social media accounts.
5. Don’t give up: Job searching during a pandemic can be a challenging process, but job seekers should not give up. With persistence and determination, they can find the right job opportunity even in difficult times.

Conclusion: Job searching during a pandemic requires job seekers to be adaptable and creative. By utilizing online resources, networking online, tailoring their application materials, practicing for virtual interviews, and staying positive, job seekers can increase their chances of success. However, they should also be careful not to apply for jobs they’re not qualified for, ignore job requirements, be too aggressive, neglect their online presence, or give up. With these dos and don’ts in mind, job seekers can navigate the job market during a pandemic and find the right job opportunity.