Being a senior graduating in May of 2020, I started my job search early on. There was an abundance of opportunities and I was optimistic about my future employment endeavors. I finally landed on the perfect opportunity in the city I wanted to be in and I signed the offer. Then the Coronavirus hit and my whole world was turned upside-down. The global pandemic changes many aspects of my everyday life, and adjusting to this “new normal” is complicated.

One of the most devastating news I received was that because of financial struggles my job offer was being revoked. I was now amidst a global pandemic and economic downturn searching for other opportunities. Through this search I was enlightened by the new recruitment process and what it meant for new graduates like me. This is why I am going to tell you how the pandemic has changed job recruitment and how to navigate this new normal. 

How The Pandemic Has Changed Job Recruitment

The pandemic has changed job recruitment significantly. Let’s face it, not as many companies are looking to hire. Many people are being laid off and there are hiring freezes everywhere. This means those abundances of opportunities you used to see is now minimized significantly. 

Changes in Networking

Due to social distancing guidelines, in-person networking is out. All those networking skills you learned in college no longer apply and standing out online is now more important than ever. 

Changes in Interviewing

Everything has moved online. If you are like me this is disappointing, I impress best in person. Using zoom has become the new way to interview and interviewees and employers alike are adjusting to this switch. 

Changes in Onboarding 

Onboarding and offer letters may take a lot longer than normal. You may be the perfect candidate for the position and the recruiter and company want to hire you immediately. Because of HR and a possible hiring freeze you may not get an answer until all this is over. 

How To Navigate This “New Normal”

Navigating this “new normal” can be difficult. Here are tips on actions to take even though he pandemic has changed job recruitment. 

Be Flexible 

Being patient and flexible is my number one piece of advice when it comes to the job search. It is important to understand that everyone is being affected by this pandemic and everyone is equally struggling.

Use Your Resources 

Use LinkedIn, your professors, and your school’s career center as a resource. They will have an abundance of advice and are willing to help. 

Set Yourself Apart 

Take time to learn how to use Zoom. Setting yourself apart from other candidates is important and it is the small details that will make a difference.  

Network Netwok Network 

Even though the pandemic has changed job recruitment and networking, it is important to still get your name out there. Reach out to friends, family, and strangers and start making connections. 

Times like these are hard and frustrating but together we will all get through it. Even though the pandemic has changed job recruitment, companies are still open to hiring, and when this is all over they will be ready to onboard. Stay positive and keep working!