Job hunting can be daunting and stressful, especially during a global pandemic. Whether you have chosen to take the next step in your career, lost your job prior to Covid or as a result of redundancy, we have put together some of our top tips to help you secure a new role.

1. Break it down into small, manageable tasks
Endlessly scrolling through job boards and filling out online application forms can become tedious. To avoid being put off from searching for job all together, set yourself a goal of applying for 2-3 jobs each day.

2. Build your career confidence
Whether you’ve started feeling that you’re not skilled enough to progress in your career, or you have been missing the praise you would normally receive when working in close contact with others, it is likely your confidence has taken a knock recently. Try taking a moment to proactively identify your strengths and focus on reinforcing those strengths in your mind.

3. Be open-minded when considering opportunities
During a time like this, it is important to remain open minded during your job search. Instead of focusing on your next step up the career ladder, consider taking a horizontal career move instead. This could help you to build a skillset you currently lack.

4. Be patient after applying for a role
Many recruiters now work from home and may not have access to all of their usual resources. Previously streamlined recruitment processes can take longer now individuals are working from home, therefore recruiters may take longer to get back to you. If you are awaiting an update, a polite email or phone call requesting feedback is completely acceptable.

5. Proactively upskill to address your weaknesses
If you have identified any skills gaps that need filling in order for you to progress in your career, now is the time to proactively upskill. This will help to improve your chances of securing a new job, by increasing your employability and showcasing your commitment to lifelong learning.

6. Update your CV for the new era of work
Just like before COVID, CVs are important tools when marketing yourself to employers. As well as ensuring your CV is fully up-to-date, it is important to optimise it for algorithms. Start by identifying the keywords in job descriptions of your ideal role and incorporate those keywords into your CV where appropriate. Another key tip is to ensure each of your applications is specific to that role.

7. Perfect your remote interview skills
Virtual interviews have dramatically increased in popularity and will likely be the norm going forward. Many of the tips given for face-to-face interviews also apply to virtual interviews. However, there are also additional considerations to make. For more advice on perfecting your virtual interview technique, click here.

8. Talk to a Recruiter
Industry recruiters are the best contacts to give you invaluable insights into the current job market. Recruiters also help you understand what employers are looking for in their new hires and ways you can improve in the way your market yourself. If you are currently job hunting and need some extra support, contact our friendly Recruitment team on 0333 242 3660.

It is entirely possible to find a new role during a pandemic. A key point to bear in mind is to remember not to put too much pressure on yourself and make sure to take regular breaks form your job search to avoid burning out.