However, there are ways in which you can keep going during this time to make sure that employees consider your application. Here are handy tips to keep you going when the going gets tough.

The short and long term of job hunting

The job market is constantly shifting, forcing us to adapt. A lot of things remain uncertain due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has affected the job market tremendously with many industries having seen the rug being pulled from underneath them.

One of the things that you can do to prepare yourself is to consider the long and short term of your career. Updating your CV for the job that you want is paramount, but it is also useful to consider applying for a job that is a contract basis or below your experience level.

It will give you access to short term employment as you wait for industries to reopen and hire again. It can also prevent you from having gaps in your CV.

Network

Job hunting is hard and can get frustrating, more so if you are doing it as a lone wolf. Your network will be the most valuable thing during this time. Talk to friends or people in your industry and keep up to date with what is happening.

It will give you the advantage of getting access to opportunities that may not be advertised or even create a niche for you in a company that may not be aware that they need your skills and expertise. Remember to keep your digital profiles such as Linkedin and career portals active and updated.

Update your resume

Keep your CV updated when applying for jobs online. Furthermore, carefully read what each position is looking for and mirror the keywords that are used by recruiters, which will make your application stand out and also make it easier for recruiters to read through. The general rule of thumb is to keep your resume no longer than two pages with short explanations instead of long-winded paragraphs.

Get ready for virtual interviews

It may be a while before you can do a face to face interview, which means that there will be a rise in virtual interviews. Make sure that you have a secure connection and you are in a place with good lighting. You can mount your phone or P.C in a stable area so that you appear clear. Always keep in mind to dress as if you were going to the interview in person. A golden rule is to avoid stripes and patterns that can be disturbing to the eyes.

Consider working with a recruiter

If you log onto career portals such as Linkedin, you will find yourself having to hack through thousands of jobs. It can soon turn your job-hunting into a job itself as you read through hundreds of positions to only apply to a handful that fit your skill set.

Working with a recruiter can help you cut through the noise and find positions that are most suitable for you. Be clear and honest with your recruiter when it comes to what you are looking for and keep regular contact with them to stay up to date.

Position yourself in a creative way

Looking for a job during the Coronavirus pandemic means being more creative on how you showcase what you have to offer. While it may be easy to throw yourself into a frantic search for a job due to financial circumstances or stress, it is important to operate from a strategic and calm place.

Carefully assess what skills you have to offer and consider the need to upskill if necessary to fit a position. Approach a company that may not be aware of the need for your skills, but could benefit from it significantly, by pitching what you have to offer.

Above all, remember to take care of your mental and physical health. Rest when you need to and remember to try again each day.