The post-covid job market is showing a high level of unpredictability. As expected, employers are not hiring at the accelerating rate that many economists predicted. At the same time, many employers are having problems finding the right candidates. So, there is a huge disconnect between the kinds of jobs high growth industries are looking for and what job seekers want. In this article, I will share some tips on how to deal with unpredictability in the job market.
As a first step, you need to stay informed on the shifts in the job markets. The best way to deal with the unpredictability is to be informed. Here are some things you can do.
Focus on Self Care
If you have experienced unemployment for up to a year, now is the time to refocus on your own physical and mental health. That means getting out of the house and restart a normal pattern of life. For many, this may seem a bit strange after being confined for the last year but it is incredibly important. Go out on a walk. Eat healthily and take care of yourself.
Focus on What You Can Control
Irrespective of your current situation, there are things you can not control. So, let go of those things that are out of your control. This may include
- What the government will do
- Which employer will be hiring tomorrow
- What the weather will be tomorrow, the next day or next week
There are things you can control and these include:
- Acquiring new skills
- Generating new content that highlights your new-found skills
- Networking
So, every day, when you wake up, do something about what you can control. Start that training, attend that course or even read that book.
Networking
The importance of networking can not be over-emphasized. You need to get out and network with people. Interesting thing is that you don’t have to do this face to face. Technology has made networking so easy nowadays. Networking is a skill that many will have to reestablish and learn. So, get out of your comfort zone. Reach out to people and have that coffee meet.
If you focus on what you can control, dealing with the unpredictability will become easier. This will not make the post-pandemic job market any less unpredictable but it will make it easier to deal with.
