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Update 29th April 2020: When I first wrote this blog post in 2013, the recessionary times referred to in the post that we were dealing with were normal economic ups and downs.
7 years later, we’re stepping into another recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are going to be job losses and yet, there will also be hiring of the right people for the right jobs as well as some stepping into self-employment and business.
While the strategy for job hunting during COVID-19 times will require skills and activities that might be outside of your comfort zone, these tips are a good starting point if you are facing the specter of layoffs and redundancy and want to get an early start in getting job interviews.
How to land an interview and get an opportunity to prove one’s capabilities during recessionary times
Sometime back, there was much discussion in one of my LinkedIn Groups on the topic of experienced unemployed professionals trying to land interviews.
The discussion took an interesting turn when a young, soon to be qualified professional joined the debate with the same problem.
Early in the discussion, I had suggested looking at one’s contacts that could at least get the resume through the door and onto the right desk and improve the chances of getting the much desired interview.
One’s credibility goes up as the introducer is also a reference. Worst case scenario, you may not get the interview or get interviewed but still not get the job.
Even then, the saving grace is that at least you will receive direct and correct feedback on why you are not invited for the interview or did not get the much needed offer letter.
Possibly the profile is not matching with the job description, the position is on hold or has been filled internally.
Far better than chasing the company or agency who may feel uncomfortable giving you a reply and wasting your time which could be better spent on searching in new pastures.
It’s important to keep a positive mindset.
Other action plan steps that I suggest are
Think carefully about what kind of a job you want
This is important since you really don’t want to apply for a job, actually get an offer which doesn’t match your circumstances and creates life balance issues.
If you are unwilling to relocate or spend more than 40% of the job travelling, do not apply for a job which requires relocation or 80% travel time no matter how prestigious the company or great the pay package.
It isn’t fair to either party.
Decide on your target industry where you want to work
Do an honest self appraisal of your strengths, weaknesses and competencies as well as sector experience and then apply for positions matching your profile and seniority in companies from that sector.
In other words, find your niche market. This would improve your chances of getting an interview provided your profile matches from the prospective employer’s perspective.
Not sure about your strengths? This blog post has an exercise to help you figure it out.
Let your network know what you are looking for
Network here includes your professional as well as personal network. You never know who may be able to get you the introduction that you are seeking. Or they may know someone who can assist and provide you with an introduction.
There is some truth to Six Degrees of Separation.
You can learn more about it in my post Career Networking Tip: Keep alligator happy if you want success
Thank your network personally for favors
There is nothing better or more sincere than thanking your introducer for the introduction and informing them if the introduction has worked out for you.
A handwritten note or a telephone call works best. People like to be appreciated, it’s only human.
Pay it forward
When others are willing to reach out and help you through a tough time, do make sure that you show gratitude. One of the best ways is to promise to pay it forward and keep your word.
We all go through tough times at some point in our lives and the best thing to remember is that this too shall pass.
Think you might need more help? Check out Karmic Ally Coaching’s Fast Track Career Success Action Plan here.
Additional Information on Job Hunting especially when unemployed
Since the time this blog post was written in 2013, I have added additional guidance and tips and recommend the following for additional help.
5 Reasons your job hunt isn’t giving desired results (Kindle ebook)
5 honest job loss truths that need to be shared
Dealing with the Gremlin called Unemployment Stress
Unemployment is not the end, it is a new beginning
Written By: Vatsala Shukla
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What great and timely advice to so many of us who need this info right now. You have given us hope in challenging times. Thank you for your love and support <3
You’re welcome, Debra. If this post can help those caught in a job hunt during challenging times, the post will achieve it’s goal.
I am glad that I am retired from the 9 to 5 rat race and do not have to face getting back into the job market. That said, these are valuable ideas and resources for anyone who does. Will be passing them on to my working friends and family!
Thanks Barb!
“Think carefully about what kind of job you want.” What you wrote and shared under this is valuable life information. Something people don’t always think about. When I was younger, others tried to encourage me to join professions where they felt the most money would be made. While good at those professions, they did not align with my heart. I feel more people would do better to have this type of knowledge. You have written and shared a valuable list and post. And to finalize it by using the thoughts of Gratitude, is poignant. When we show gratitude, doors open and we expand.
Thanks Heather Maria.The people who try to encourage us with good pay career options when we are young mean well but they also need to consider the inherent talents, aptitudes and what interests the young person. No wonder so many people go in for a career change later in life to do something that makes their heart sing.
I like your approach to the subject and that you recommend not to take just any job. There will be some difficult times in the nearest future never the less.
Thanks Christin. When there are financial pressures or a fear that there won’t be other job offers, people often take what’s available and then experience job dissatisfaction as well as making their career history look bad. It is better to approach a job hunt strategically even if there isn’t a recession.