With everything coming to a standstill in the COVID-19 lockdown, finding the right job has become a challenging task for many.

Especially for those looking forward to getting started with their career in 2020.

But is it really impossible to find a job in the pandemic?

We don't think so!

Before you go ahead to find the right job, some things you must know are:

1. The awesome things that can reveal if the company is right for you
2. Signs to identify a toxic company culture
3. How to find a company with the right culture for you?
4. How to know if a company offers job security?

In essence, you need to know how to discover a great place to work!

So, here are 6 things you can do to find a job and get your career started in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Network aggressively by reaching out to people

Since social media is an inherent part of our lives, networking can play a very crucial role in your job hunt.

So, now would be a good time to begin networking. Start by adding people you know, like your seniors and mentors.

Most companies prefer hiring through employee referrals. So, try to add people who work in your dream companies.

Build a rapport with these people by talking to them, following what they share, and writing or sharing articles that interest you.

While sites like LinkedIn are best for making professional connections, even social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc can help you market yourself to potential employers.

Tip: Make sure you update your profile regularly so that people can help you with suitable job openings.

Also read: How to Effectively Use Social Media for Your Job Search During COVID-19.

Develop relevant & trending skills

You may not have a lot of work experience, but rights skills and competencies can help you get your dream job.

Given that change is the only constant, the skills that companies seek in a candidate may keep changing.

So, it would be a good idea to have trending and relevant skill sets on your resume.

Identify the core skills and competencies that employers in your field seek in their potential employees.

Then, take up online courses and certifications from websites like Udemy, Coursera, etc to hone your skills and flaunt them in your resume to get hired.

Also read: Quick Ways to Upskill and Elevate Your Career Goals.

Take up remote freelance jobs or internships

It’s one thing to know about your field and another to have practical knowledge about it.

While colleges may train us with competencies and skills, work experience can play a major role in getting you hired.

So, take up a freelance job or a work from home internship in this lockdown to get the hang of the nitty-gritty of your field and add work experience on your resume.

You can explore remote opportunities within and around your field on websites like naukri, Internshala, LetsIntern, Hellointern, OysterConnect.com, LinkedIn, etc.

Also read: Tips to Land Work From Home Jobs.

Prepare for interviews

Facing your first job interview can be nail-biting. Especially now, when the entire nation has been stuck at home for more than a month.

However, the silver lining to this lockdown is the abundance of time we have on our hands.

Use this time to prepare for interviews so that you don't have much to worry about when you get called to one.

As most companies are recruiting remotely, it would be best to prepare for video interviews.

If you have already bagged an interview and have an in-person session post lockdown, we suggest you get started with interview preparations.

Also read: Interview Dress Code for Males and Females.

You can also pen down a crisp and unique self-introduction for to make a great first impression while introducing yourself.

Here are 10 common interview questions and answers you must prepare for before giving an interview:

  1. Tell me about yourself?
  2. How would you describe yourself?
  3. What are your biggest achievements?
  4. What is your greatest failure in life?
  5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  6. What are your hobbies?
  7. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
  8. Describe yourself in one word?
  9. What is your dream job?
  10. Why should we hire you?

Also read: Top Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers.

Practice virtual mock interviews

Mock interviews will prepare you for interviews and can boost your confidence.

And what better time to do practice these than now?

Pick an interview partner- a mentor, friend, or family member who has experience with interviews.

Ask them to interview you and ask questions that a potential recruiter would ask.

Also read: How to Stay at Home and Prepare for a Mock Interview?

Plan, but don't plan too much

With the turbulence in today’s economy, finding jobs that you want is a task on its own.

With most companies going remote in the lockdown, recruitments are seeing a slower pace, the impact of which will stay even once we go out of our homes.

This is why you must approach your job search with an open mind and explore multiple options rather than sticking to your set goals.

So plan, but stay open to opportunities, and keep an open mind to experiment with your career.

Also read: 5 Hacks to Get a Higher Salary Package at Any Company

Suggested readings:

  1. How to Utilize Lockdown Time to Create a Resume That Attracts Recruiter's Eye.

  2. 5 ways to Keep Your Job Search Active During Unfavourable Times.

All the best!

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