Restarting your Career after COVID-19: Tips to Find a Job Easily

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COVID-19 has many people's careers in doubt. Some will have to find new employment in their current industry, while others will be compelled to make a change and prepare for the future.

If you're looking at restarting your career after COVID-19, here are some helpful tips for finding the right job.

Consider What You Want

Before scrolling through job postings, consider what you want out of your new career. Many people, especially those experiencing COVID-19, have been encouraged to look for remote work options. As there's a lot of uncertainty about waves of the virus returning, this added layer of job security is comforting.

Think about what you want and what you don't want. Consider things that you're passionate about and what income you require to support your lifestyle. The point at which those two things overlap is where you want to focus your efforts.

Review Your Skills

Review your skills and determine what could be transferable to your new career path. For example, if you're transitioning from accounting to marketing, the ability to manage a budget and review analytics is transferable. Look beyond your hard skills and consider soft skills like teamwork, time management, and leadership.

As you work through this exercise, highlight the skills you require to make a go of it in your new career. Use this time to upgrade your skills or outline how you'll do this.

During this exercise, you should refresh your resume and brush up on your interview skills. Consider working with a coach or resume writer to get started on the right foot.

Create a Pivot Plan

If you're considering a new career after COVID-19, don't consider it a forced change; consider it your pivot point. You'll need a pivot plan to make this transition while maintaining a positive mindset.

Your Pivot Plan will outline what steps you need to take to get into the career you want. This might include using a job site to find an entry-level position in your industry (visit the website for more details). It may include a longer continuing education plan to ensure you have the necessary qualifications. 

Outlining a Pivot Plan gives you actionable goals and objectives to move forward quickly in the coming months.

Leverage Agencies for Specialized Roles

Working with a recruitment agency can be incredibly beneficial if you’re looking to switch industries or find specialized positions. For instance, if you aim to enter the food production sector, you can find food manufacturing positions with an agency specializing in placing talent within this field. These agencies have access to job listings that might not be posted elsewhere and can help match your skills with the right employers.

Use Various Networks

Use your networks to find different opportunities that can help you restart your career. Think beyond traditional job opportunities and consider things like mentorships and job shadowing. Use this opportunity to contact contacts in your chosen industry and ask them about their experience and advice.

Not only will your networking opportunities help you find a job faster, but it can help you create relationships with people who can help you advance your career.

Update Your Resume

Your resume allows you to highlight your experiences, skills, and job history. Resumes help employers make hiring decisions and help you get your first interview. Utilizing resume writing in Illinois (where I spent many years!) will help your resume stand out in the competitive job search.

Recognize Your Uncomfortable Competence

Change takes time, and keeping a positive mindset throughout the process can be challenging. However, a positive attitude is essential for successfully restarting your career after COVID-19. Take time to recognize your uncomfortable competence. After all, it's beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone where great things happen.

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