COVID-19 has shaken up the economy and the Canadian job market in unprecedented ways. No one could have predicted a few months ago that 2020 would be such a whirlwind across the board for numerous industries.

Businesses—those that were fortunate enough to survive—have had to completely revamp their business models, back-end operations, customer experiences, e-commerce platforms, and hiring processes just to stay afloat.

Considering the fact that many businesses are focusing on simply recuperating their losses over the past few months, it’s a wonder that anyone is even still hiring. With all of the confusion happening in the world, many people are understandably having a hard time finding meaningful and sustainable long-term employment.

Are you one of the many Canadians struggling to navigate the current job market during COVID-19? Don’t settle for just any old job! We have a few tips to help you figure out how to get hired by the right company during COVID-19.

Job Search Tips during COVID-19

What many people are referring to as the “new normal” in a post-COVID-19 world isn’t entirely accurate. Yes, things are definitely different now and there may be no returning to business as usual, but that doesn’t mean that all hope is lost.

There’s a light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel, meaning that there are still plenty of work opportunities available for eager hard-working individuals. You just have to know where to look.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate the post-COVID-19 job market successfully.

Set Specific Goals for Yourself

Even in the pre-COVID-19 days, it was always important to have a cohesive plan of action when searching for new employment. Whether you’re unemployed, are working toward a promotion, or are looking to switch careers entirely, you need to plan ahead.

Be prepared for just about every twist and turn coming your way. Take additional courses to improve your skills, practice doing whatever it is you want to get into, and take the time to research everything you can about your current or desired industry.

The roadmap to success is fraught with trial and error and failures, but that doesn’t mean you should ever give up. Start by setting small achievable goals that ultimately lead to larger milestones. Focus on the bigger picture, but do the work that it takes to get there.

Research Which Companies Are Actively Hiring

Searching for a job shouldn’t be like taking a shot in the dark. While it’s easy to simply post your resume on a few job search websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Monster.ca, it’s important to also have a clear idea of which companies in your field are actually hiring.

Companies that are actively looking for employees during this difficult time are more likely to give qualified candidates the time of day and a chance to prove themselves. Don’t bother applying for companies that aren’t actively hiring right now because chances are, they’re simply not interested.

We’re not suggesting that you should put all of your eggs in one basket, but if you really want to increase your chances of finding long-term employment during these hard economic times, then you need to go for the safe bets as much as possible.

Network, Network, Network

Thanks to social distancing, the ways in which we network have changed a great deal, but the efficacy of the concept remains the same. As the saying goes, “it’s not always what you know, but it’s who you know that matters”.

That’s not to downplay the importance of skill or experience when it comes to any job. It just means that the majority of the time, rubbing elbows with the right people can help you get work opportunities that might not have otherwise been available to you.

Online networking has never been more important. Reach out to prominent figures in your field through social media or email to let them know that you’re ready and willing to work. Ask them if they’d be willing to review your resume and cover letter. Build up a strong rapport with them, so they keep you in mind for future related employment.

Attend Virtual Events

RSVP for and attend virtual networking events like community job fairs, company meet-and-greets, marketing conferences, and any other corporate events you get invited to or hear about through advertisements.

This stems from the previous point. Making an effort to attend these events and ask questions allows you to learn more about the companies that you’re interested in working for. Barring that, these events are also excellent opportunities to market yourself and prove why you’d be a great asset to any company that hires you.

Update Your Social Media Profiles

Social media plays a huge role in who gets hired and who doesn’t.

Companies are extremely likely to check out your social media profiles before deciding whether or not to hire you. What you post matters, so make sure to clean up all of your social media pages or set them to private if there are things on there that you don’t want potential employers to see.

Keep in mind that whatever you post on the Internet is forever and that you have a digital footprint that can easily be found by tech savvy businesses.

Work on Your Virtual Interview Skills

Interviews are nerve-wracking enough when you have to do them in person in an office setting. People get nervous and sometimes obsess over what they’re wearing or if they are saying the wrong thing.

Virtual interviews are a little bit less daunting because you get to do them from the comfort of your own home, but there are still certain etiquette rules of thumb you should keep in mind. Always keep it professional. Dress as if you’re doing an in-person interview. Showcase your skills and why you’re right for the job. Most importantly, smile and maintain a positive attitude throughout.

Get Help from Resolve Recruit Inc.

Wondering how to apply for jobs during COVID-19? Resolve Recruit Inc. has you covered. We’ll help you update your resume, write a killer cover letter, hone in on your virtual interview skills, and teach you how to network with the top employers in your industry. With over 20 years of experience in the recruitment industry, our recruiters have the right kind of experience to help you land your dream job. Contact us to learn more.