Interviewing and Applying in COVID Times

COVID-19 has changed our lives; it has also changed how we interview. We must now adjust from in-person to communicating through technology. If you have an online or phone interview, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Just remember, no matter if you have an interview online or over the phone is something should go wrong, keep calm and collected. A good attitude and a bit of humor is going to go farther than frustrated disappointed. Apologize for the error and understand that everyone is struggling as we adapt to this new style of interviews.

If you have a gap in your employment history due to COVID-19, do not address this in your resume. This is dealt with in the cover letter or application.

If you are transitioning to a new career because your old job no longer exists due to COVID-19, look for your old career skills that transfer to your new career.

Look for skills and other attributes you are doing now that could apply to your new career:

Consider hobbies or volunteer work  that can convert into jobs.

• 25 years running and volunteering at 5K and 10K races may qualify you to coach and train
• 10 years of babysitting may help qualify you for a childcare assistant
• 5 years of primary care for a disabled parent may qualify you for training as a primary care assistant

Consider a side hustle  A side hustle is a job that you can work on top of your full-time job. It is a flexible second job that brings in money, but it is also typically something that you are passionate about that you don’t get to pursue in your primary job.

• Explore the potential if your side hustle could become full-time work.
• Is it also something you can do while you are looking for something more permanent?

Reworking your resume due to COVID-19 will only make you a stronger candidate. An excellent resume has the power to open door employment. Fill your time while unemployed developing new skills to strengthen your resume. Always make sure to proofread your resume and create a new resume for each job application. If you seek additional assistance, we can help review it and offer guidance on making your resume stronger. Email  workforce@eobcapsnv.org

We know that this is a challenging time, and applying for jobs can be an emotionally draining process, so we recommend finding a support group. A support group could be friends and families or joining an established support group. Here is one resource to check out if you’re interested.   This support group can remind you why you set your goals and push you went you need it.