How to find a new job during the pandemic

Finding a new job right now can feel daunting.

As the COVID-19 pandemic sparked one of the worst recessions since the Great Depression, Americans faced historically high unemployment, with weekly jobless claim figures totaling over 1 million for nearly four months so far. That’s why Jennifer Lynn Robinson wants to help people navigate the new normal of finding a job virtually.

A lawyer-turned-business owner, Robinson is now CEO of Purposeful Networking, which offers speaking engagements, one-on-one trainings and consulting services on how to build a professional network. Robinson offers some tips on networking and job hunting.

What’s some of the advice you share with people on how to build a network?

The two major things I would say, whether we’re in a pandemic situation or not, are just to stay connected and to stay visible. People are feeling so isolated, and you can be somebody that’s very valued from a relationship standpoint if you’re the kind of person that even just checks in with people. It’s very easy. You don’t have to have an agenda.

For the first few months of the pandemic, I would just call and ask people how they’re doing. Now that we’re a few months in, it’s better to ask questions that are open-ended and conversational. For example, what’s been the highlight of your week? Or what’s something that’s come out of quarantine that’s a positive you didn’t expect?

There was one week of COVID where I just picked 10 or 12 girlfriends and sent them inspirational quotes on post cards and just asked how they were doing and reminded them I’m here if they need anything. Those things can really go a long way.

It’s also really important to stay visible and consistent with your social media and look for ways that you can publish things. I happen to love the LinkedIn publishing platform, because those articles live in your profile. So for anybody that’s going to look at your social media and see what you’re about if they’re considering you for a job, they’ll see all of the things that you have expertise in or that are important to you by seeing the things that you publish and comment on.

Beyond improving your network, what general advice do you have for finding a job?

Try to get a warm introduction to submit your resume. That’s so important with all of these sites when you think of all the people right now that are competing with everybody getting laid off. You need an in. That could be somebody at the place you’re applying to, or someone on LinkedIn you find through a second- or third-degree connection.

Another big thing is the virtual interview. A lot of people, even those used to technology, are not used to having to make such an important first impression virtually. If you’re going to have a virtual interview, test your technology, your lighting, your background, the way you present yourself. Make sure your camera’s at eye level, that you have talking points, that you’re dressed for a job interview.

Use the time you have. There are definitely days where you have this sense of uncertainty and that’s OK, as long as you feel like you’re moving towards your goals.