Finding a Job - Pandemic Job Search

The Coronavirus is causing massive unemployment that demands a focused response, especially for those of us who have lost their jobs.

First, you need to know where you are going before you start your search. Answering these three simple questions will help guide you in the right directions from the start.

1. What is the job(s) that you are seeking and what companies will you target for your job search?

2. What are your short-term goals (now to 1-year) and what are your long-term goals?

(NOTE: Write them down and be very specific and put them in a SMART FORMAT—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Time specific.)

3. What is the minimum salary I can accept if offered a job?

Armed with this basic information you know have a direction for your job search. However, you must commit this fundamental axiom that finding a job is full-time job. Simply put, this means that you will commit 8 hours a day (5 days a week) to finding employment.

Second, it is essential that you prepare and professional resume that can be used to support your networking plan. Remember, that most jobs are found through meeting people (in person, skype, zoom etc.). Now that you have a basic direction you must develop a daily networking plan.

Your weekly calendar should include at least 5 personnel contacts that could potentially lead to an interview and a job offer. Each time you talk to someone part of the conversation you should include the following question: Do you know anyone you think I should talk to that may be helpful in my job search?

From the networking process you should develop a spreadsheet with all pertinent contact information for each networking contract that you meet (Name, email, phone, note about meeting, planned date of next contact). The networking spreadsheet will allow you to keep in contact with potential hiring managers.