A Job search requires patience and perseverance. More so, in uncertain times like these when the job market has taken a hit due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
While experts recommend that you stay put and avoid moving on to a new job, but if that’s not an option,
Here’s what you should do Search for a Job
1. Be Positive
Worrying doesn’t help nor it changes reality. Accepting the situation and then working towards a solution is your best bet to find a job in an uncertain market. Believe in your abilities and sharpen the saw. You never know when a new opportunity knocks on your door.
And when it does, make sure, you are ready.
2. Build Relationships
The importance of building relationships can’t be emphasized more. At a time when new job opportunities are hard to come by, it’s your network that can help you tap into the hidden job market. It is a good idea to take stock of your existing network. Make a list of your former colleagues, LinkedIn connections; your family and friends who are in a position to provide you a job lead.
The important point at this time is to get the word out that you are looking for a job change. Send an email or a WhatsApp message, whatever works best for you. Make an effort to reach out to the new people on LinkedIn, who can help you. Follow or drop a message to recruiters on job boards such as Monster Malaysia, so that they are aware that you are looking for a job. They may reach out to you whenever there a suitable opportunity matching your profile.
Please note as much as you want a job, there are employers who need good people to get the work done.
3. Structure your Job Search
It is a good idea to give your job search efforts a structure. Make a list of platforms that you want to use in your job search journey in uncertain times. Ensure your profile in job portals is up to date. List your experience, organisation you are working for, skills and notice period. Create job alerts for the jobs you are interested in so that you do not miss out on a new job opportunity. You should also make a list of consultants who hire candidates in your domain and approach them.
4. Conquer your Fear
Fear is your worst enemy. To attract the best job opportunities, you should be in a positive frame of mind. You may have heard of the famous lines from The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.”
Focus on your goal. Sooner or later, you’ll find a job that is best suited for you.
5. Multi-pronged approach
To speed up and make your job search effective do not rely on one platform or medium to search for a job. The idea is to go for a multi-channel job search strategy. Don’t just rely on job boards, leverage your professional network, reach out to your college seniors, tap on every possible resource you can to make your job hunt a success.
6. Be flexible
One of the best suggestions on job search in uncertain times is to be flexible. You may not always get an opportunity in your dream company, industry or in a location of your choice. So, be prepared to step out of your comfort zone. You may also explore work from home jobs. Be open to switching industries and geographies, if you get a good option.
Looking for jobs with flexibility to work from home? Here are a few options:
