Some Good News for Your Pandemic Job Search

04 Apr Some Good News for Your Pandemic Job Search

It’s been over a year since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the workplace and accelerated a swift paradigm shift to the remote workforce. And while we’re nowhere near getting back to normal—with new variants popping up regularly—and the United States still far from herd immunity, there’s plenty of good news for job seekers.

Yes, pandemic-job-search fatigue is real, but we’re giving you permission to be cautiously optimistic right now. Why? Because hiring trends and statistics for this year show that you can break into your dream role and out of your ZIP code with fewer obstacles and limitations in the way. And getting hired remotely is the new normal—you know—in a good way.

So, let’s explore some of the positives that can empower you to land that perfect position in 2021. Here are a few trends that will give you that rush of possibility and professional warm-and-fuzzies:

1. Expand your job search.

According to Mashable, Zoom’s year-over-year revenue has accelerated at more than 369%. And, one year deep into the global pandemic, it’s undeniable that remote work isn’t going anywhere. But, that’s good news, for you at least. Because employers have made a powerful paradigm shift to scoping out national talent instead of limiting their roles to local offices and headquarters. National brands and small-to-medium businesses alike are frequently posting more full-time remote positions.

And it’s a win-win. Job search candidates can expand their professional horizons far beyond a 20-mile radius of their residential ZIP code. And employers can tap into a vast, national, and infinitely more diverse talent market. 

This means that you can find more career options anywhere across the United States—opening more options and giving you the ability to dream bigger. 

2. Negotiate. Negotiate. Negotiate.

Even when you’re confident in your abilities and you know your worth, it’s intimidating to ask for more in a brutal, COVID economy with layoffs continuing as many employers tighten their budgets and work to run leaner, right? We’ll give you the bad news first, layoffs aren’t going anywhere. But there’s a silver lining, or maybe a green one.

That’s because employers are still ready to pay top dollar for their prime job candidates. So, be prepared for questions about salary and get ready to level-up your pay and benefit negation game. 

Use GlassDoor.com and LinkedIn to dive in to see the median incomes for your desired job description. And use resources like Payscale.com, (or hey, a recruiter), to see what your job skills and qualifications are worth. Think education, certifications, and other specialized training you’ve nailed down over your career. Know how to reframe the conversations from what you’re making now or in your latest position to the salary range you’re looking for in your next position.

3. Stay positive.

According to the U.S. Labor Department, hiring slowed at the end of the fourth quarter last year. But more employers are expected to start hiring again early this year with minimal caveats—large employers going through hiring freezes and companies based in states that are locked down. 

Pandemic career hurtles have also redirected more professionals to alter or shift their career paths altogether. The devastating impact of job losses across verticals like travel and hospitality have been a fresh impetus for forging a new career path forward. 

This could be the right opportunity for you to pivot in a professional direction you’ve been passively flirting with for years that would leverage your existing skillset. And with LinkedIn Learning and online learning, adding more skills to your resume, learning a new trade, achieving skill certificates, or even a fresh degree or two are more accessible than ever. 

The hiring process may be more arduous too, taking more time and more Zoom interviews than before, but keep on keeping on. Make sure you make time for yourself and try not to get bogged down in your job search. If you’re hitting a wall, get out for a walk, meditate, or call a friend. Remember, just like the pandemic, your job search is temporary.

Let’s get connected!

At Staffing Strong, we’re ready to help you navigate the current job market. We guide you in landing your next position with your unique career goals in mind. Drop us a line and submit your resume so we can help power your job search.

Meet the Author

Evelyn Vega is the Founder and President at Staffing Strong and the Past President of the Phoenix American Marketing Association. Since 1999, she’s made her career about supporting her clients in building meaningful careers and partnering with businesses in finding quality hires. In her free time, Evelyn sits on various advisory boards and enjoys practicing on her drum set!