If you’re thinking about handing in your resignation, you may have more company than you expected. Some experts believe that the majority of the workforce could be looking for a new job as the pandemic winds down.
Many workers plan to move on if their company discontinues remote-work options.
Meanwhile, many businesses are reporting that they’re having trouble finding enough employees to hire.
This may be an ideal time to make changes in your career, especially if you’re ready to deal with the latest conditions.
Keep these trends in mind as you search for a new position.
Prepare Yourself
Labor Department figures show that there are more job openings now than before the pandemic. Plan ahead, so you can focus your efforts and stay organized.
Keep these strategies in mind:
- Set priorities. Remote work may be at the top of your mind, but there are other factors to consider too. What kind of office culture are you seeking? What benefits would support your work-life balance?
- Create a timeline. You may want to act quickly, or you may want to see how your current company adapts to reopening. However, much lead time you take, use it to make yourself more competitive.
- Boost your skills. Continuing your education and training is one of the most effective things you can do. Read books, listen to podcasts, and complete certification courses online.
- Try again. If you were job hunting during lockdown, you may still be feeling discouraged. Remember that you’re more likely to succeed now, and you may be able to apply for higher positions that seemed out of reach before.
Go Online
Even with modern vaccines, you’ll probably be doing more networking and interviewing online.
Use these strategies to make a positive impression in the virtual world:
- Test your equipment. It’s easy to become complacent when zoom calls are a familiar routine. Ensure that your technology is working before any important event.
- Arrange your space. Staging can help you look more professional at home. Create an appealing backdrop. Minimize distractions, including kids and pets.
- Make eye contact. Look at your camera instead of watching yourself on your monitor. It also helps to put your camera at eye level, so you may need a stack of books to prop it up.
- Check your posture. Sit up straight and smile because you may be scrutinized more closely on screen. Skillful lighting and makeup can make you look more attractive too.
- Practice interviewing. Ask a friend to rehearse with you or book a session with a career coach. Use their feedback to catch habits you may not be aware of and to strengthen your performance.
- Warm up old ties. What if you’ve lost touch with colleagues while you’ve been spending more time at home? Refresh your network by reaching out to see how others are doing. Set weekly goals for scheduling coffee dates and attending events.
- Join groups. You can meet new contacts without going outside. Sign up for groups related to your profession on LinkedIn and Facebook. Participate actively by commenting on discussions and posting your own topics and materials.
- Say thanks. Your manners can grow rusty if you’ve been talking with automated virtual assistants more than with humans. Express your gratitude and appreciation, including sending thank you notes after interviews.
Take advantage of the abundant opportunities in the current job market. Clarify your career objectives and find a job that can keep you engaged and fulfilled.