The weather isn’t the only thing heating up. The competition in the job market is on the verge of exploding. Adding fuel to the fire is the end to joblessness benefits including the bonus payments on unemployment and the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures. People are getting vaccinated. Schools and childcare are opening back up. As we enter a post-pandemic phase in the U.S., what does this mean for job searching?
Start Preparing For Your Career Boost Now
Summer is typically a lot busier in the job market, with hiring slowing down in the Fall then coming to a slow crawl over the later part of December and beginning of January. Crafting a resume and honing interview skills takes time. It makes sense to start looking for professional resume help and job interview coaching as soon as possible. Clients are usually more successful when they start early, before there is a need to shake things up, reducing the amount of stress they may experience in the transition back to work or to a new job.
There will also be less competition. Currently, it is an employee market due to the lack of available labor. With the impending changes, the market is sure to swing back to an employer market quickly. For those transitioning in career fields, now is a great time to make your move. Employers are willing to more closely consider transferrable skills and a desire to learn over having technical abilities due to the shortage of candidates. There may even be times when you find you are the only person that is being interviewed. In fact, some employers are paying candidates to interview! At the time of this post, McDonald’s is paying candidates $50. Faster than you can flip a burger, this limited-time offer probably will not last.
Rebuild & Reconnect Your Career Network
Rebuild your connections. We’ve all been isolated over the last year. With warmer days and restrictions being lifted, people are returning more frequently to in-person gatherings. If you feel comfortable, take advantage of them.
There is a saying, “you know everyone you need to know.” This means you start with your inner circle, then work through their connections and so on. This is still possible to do remotely through platforms like LinkedIn or by meeting virtually with friends to seek their advice on networking.
Take the Time to Weigh Your Job Options
Consider whether you want to return to the same line of work, or if it’s time for a career change. Once you have identified your target in terms of possible career options, focus on employers in the industry. Take time to research their websites and social media posts. Ensure they will be a good fit for you culturally and align with your overall career goals.
Look for a connection. Start by asking your inner circle if they know anyone who works for the company of interest. Then, review your LinkedIn connections to see if you know anyone currently employed by the company. Ask what they can share with you about their role and the experience of working there. See if they would be willing to give you a referral or endorse you when you apply. Personal connections are always best, even if they aren’t direct connections. A hiring manager may appreciate having a contact in common who can speak to your abilities and character.
Hire a Pro for Your Career Search
Finding a job is a job itself. It’s worth it to invest in hiring a professional to help guide you. As experts, we stay on top of market trends, using a proven methodology when it comes to career search strategy. We offer career assessments to help navigate career changes and identify transferable skills. Our career coaches are highly skilled in job placement and retention strategies, as well as crafting resumes to get you more calls.
Shultz Career Consulting is a true full-service career counseling practice, where we pride ourselves on providing a superior customer experience, fair pricing, and cutting-edge techniques. Get in touch to learn more about how we treat every client’s situation uniquely.
