Your Job Search During a Pandemic

Perhaps you were laid off or furloughed since COVID-19 took us by storm. As restrictions are slowly lifting and businesses that survived the lockdown begin to resume, it is a good time to continue or start the job hunt. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind.

• First, commit your search to prayer. God is interested in every aspect of your life, including your career. He can open and close doors because He is for you and wants what is best for you. He will provide wisdom as you begin your search. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
• Second, keep an open mind and think outside the box. The landscape of employment opportunities has changed so be open to new things. It’s our natural inclination to seek opportunities where we carry the most experience. You may still find many opportunities available to you depending on your industry, but you may not. For example, those working in the foodservice industry or hospitality will likely see fewer jobs available as many restaurants in NJ have capacity restrictions and travel and tourism are limited. Think about the industries that have flourished or emerged as a result of the pandemic and see if your skillset fits into any of those needs.
• Search job boards online to see the most current help wanted listings. Indeed.com is a great place to find job postings for every experience level.  Additionally, search LinkedIn.com, a professional networking database that many employers use to search for candidates with specific skillsets. Ladders.com is another site dedicated to helping candidates find a job typically at higher experience levels, which command greater compensation packages. Each of these forums allows candidates to apply for positions posted through their website. You may also consider applying to the company’s website directly, although many companies work with the sites I’ve mentioned. 
• Keep a log of the jobs you have applied for and note the site on which you applied, the company name if it’s offered, the position title, and any other relevant information (remote position or travel required, etc.).  It can be difficult to keep track of applications when submitting online, but the process is relatively quick and easy. You don’t want to be caught off guard by a prospective employer if contacted by needing to ask, “Which job is this?” 
• If given the opportunity to interview, some employers may allow a traditional on-site, face-to-face interview.  If so, ask ahead of time what their protocol is for visitors — should you call once near the lobby, should you allocate extra time to be screened before entering the premises, etc.  Always wear a mask.  In the interview, only if you are more than six feet away from your interviewer for the duration of the meeting, would it be ok for you to remove your mask, but it is not recommended. 

• You may be asked to participate in a virtual interview by using Zoom, Google Hangouts, or other virtual platforms. If this is the method, there are a few key points to keep in mind. See that the area you are responding from is neat in its appearance, not cluttered, and you should also dress professionally as you would if it were an in-person interview. Try to keep your environment free of noise from children, pets, or TV/radio, and turn off your cell phone. Most importantly, sign on ahead of time to connect to the meeting. You do not want a connectivity issue to cause you to be late for the meeting. Sign on ahead of time and avoid the stress!  
• During the interview, take care to listen and make notes if need be. Some interviewers will want to tell you about the company and the position before asking you questions. Other interviewers may jump right into asking questions, so be prepared as best you can be. 
• When asking questions of your interviewer, think about topics that are most important to you, and remain focused on those that will make or break your decision to accept the job.  For example, if the ability to work remotely is appealing, ask if the position allows for a remote schedule or hybrid schedule. If benefits, such as medical insurance, are key considerations for you, ask what the waiting period is and if the employer helps to contribute toward the cost of the policy.  Interviewers will likely not divulge contribution amounts during a first interview, however, but they will give you an idea of whether the company is helping to assist with insurance or just providing access to it. 
• Ask what you can do to guarantee success in this role. Be sure to understand the expectations of the position. It is frustrating for the applicant and the employer when there is not a clear understanding of expectations before being hired. 
• Most importantly, pray! Yes, it is important enough to mention this twice! Start your search with prayer and continue to pray throughout the entire process. Pray for guidance with each application submitted and interview conducted. If given the opportunity to choose between more than one position, ask the Lord for His guidance. Where does He want you to be? Take into consideration the logistics of distance, travel, the schedule, the benefits, and the work itself, but realize God may be aligning you in one position to prepare you for something else.

Helpful Resources

Websites: Indeed.com; LinkedIn.com; Ladders.com