When you hear that the job market is going through extraordinary times, it can cause celebration or concern. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This information gives some information on the current job market and tips for young job seekers in the post-pandemic economy.

Why are these ‘extraordinary times.’  We’re seeing:

• Historically fast job growth
• Severe labour shortages despite a still-high unemployment rate
• Epic shift to remote work
• Specific industries struggling to recover from the pandemic (construction, retail, supply chain, transportation, health care supports)
• Employers downgrading their requirements and offering more on-the-job training

Many of these are good news for younger job seekers – employers are competing for workers and looking to create suitable work environments, reduce turnover and retain current employees.

Consider these seven tips as you’re starting or continuing your job search.

1. Know what you want

There are LOTS of job opportunities right now. So, it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want – even if you’re starting.  Know what you want and be able to communicate it confidently.

2. Don’t fixate on a dream job.

Knowing what you want doesn’t mean getting there with your first job. Your first job is not your career but a step on the path. Be flexible and able to change gears. Don’t be discouraged if your first job isn’t your dream.  Stay focused and motivated to keep moving to reach your goal.  Job Skills’ Employment Counselors can work with you to help you create that pathway to success!

3. Keep learning

There is a significant skills shortage, and many people are not ready to enter the workforce, so this is a great time to develop new skills.  ‘Automated’ positions are increasing, so learning those skills will allow you to thrive in a highly mobile workforce and adapt to new positions.  Listen to podcasts, read articles, take online courses and keep up with current trends.

4. Polish your remote work skills

Remote (Work from Home) and hybrid work (onsite and remote) are here. Specific skills will make you more successful in the #WFH culture:

• Ability to work independently
• Self-motivation
• Written communication skills
• Comfort with digital technology
• Collaborative, team-player mindset
• Emotional intelligence

5. Refine your online presence

The new generation of employees should be tech-savvy.  Make sure that you apply your digital skills to keep your online presence polished and professional. Your LinkedIn profile and resume need to be concise and communicate all your accomplishments.  Don’t forget your social presence.  Many employers look at content from social media to give them information about a candidate. Remove any potentially embarrassing personal details, join relevant communities, create a profile on networking websites, and be active online. Your online activity can make it easy for hiring personnel to know more about you, and it needs to make an employer comfortable hiring you.

6. Prep for the interview

The resume gets your foot in the door, but the interview is where you come to life. Be prepared when asked, ‘tell me about yourself.’ Practice your interview responses – in your head and out loud to boost your confidence. In video interviews, look into the camera when you’re answering the questions.

7. Ask questions

You know you’re going to be asked if you have any questions. Questions you might ask include:

• How will you measure success for this position?
• What are some challenges the person in this position can expect to face?
• What type of people thrive here, and what kinds don’t?
• What do you like about working here?

The future is yours

The pandemic brought much anxiety and worry, and searching for a job as the economy recovers isn’t easy.  If you haven’t connected with an Employment Consultant at Job Skills, NOW is the time to get that one-on-one support you can use as you move through the new way of working.  Call Job Skills toll-free at 1-866-592-6278 to connect to one of JS’s experts.

Job Skills has more than 40 online workshops to assist you in your career exploration and job search situation. Register to participate in the online ‘Who is Hiring – The Hidden Job Market’ workshop on May 4, 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Watch for the other dates and times to register for any of our online workshops and lots of great links and resources to assist you!