Even before the pandemic changed the professional landscape, remote work was an increasingly common part of the business world. Technological advancements made it possible for employees to stay connected and contribute remotely, and a growing number of employers recognized the value of offering employees more flexibility and, ultimately, a better work/life balance to expand their candidate pools and keep their employees productive and engaged. Kitchen tables transformed into makeshift workspaces and in-person meetings gave way to tele- and video-conferencing. Similarly, finding a job has taken on a virtual component.
If you’re one of the millions of people who are searching for a new opportunity right now, you have probably noticed the process is decidedly different from the last time you were in the job market. Most likely, you are already familiar with emailing your resume and portfolio, searching through online job sites, and being mindful of your social media footprint. Now, however, it is common to go through the entire interview, offer and negotiation processes without ever meeting anyone from the potential employer in-person. In fact, some organizations even are onboarding new employees remotely, as well. This is more convenient in numerous ways, but it also comes with a new set of challenges and requires more self-motivation and diligence than ever before.
Some professionals can thrive regardless of the environment, but others are more comfortable when they have clearly delineated boundaries between work and home. Remote work of any kind blurs these lines and makes it more difficult for some to shift gears. Just like working from home, committing to a routine during your job search is key. This might mean setting attainable goals such as updating your resume by a specific date or applying to a certain number of opportunities each day. This will allow you to overcome procrastination and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Having a strong professional network is also now more important than ever. With much of the business world shifting to flexible remote work environments, the opportunity for impromptu or everyday networking has suddenly disappeared. Conversely, this also means people in your circle may be more accessible through emails, phone calls and social media. Be sure to keep in touch with them on a regular basis — whether it’s a friendly email asking for advice or a virtual coffee break to discuss industry trends.
For these and other tips you can use to stay focused and be successful with your job hunt – even while you’re at home – see the accompanying infographic. It provides hints and reminders that can help you find success when navigating the virtual waters of the current labor market.
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