COVID-19 and Your Job/Internship Search

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Here are 6 ways you can make the most of this time and maximize your job or internship search...

1. Update your resume. Your resume is typically your first introduction and key opportunity to convince employers that they should interview you. Yet, you have a limited amount of time to make an impression, with employers spending only about six seconds reviewing a resume before deciding if a candidate is a good fit or not. Many companies also use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software to screen resumes, passing off only the top candidates to actual human recruiters. For all of these reasons, it is essential that you make your resume the best it can be—and now is a great time to do it. Identify your strongest selling points. Highlight your unique accomplishments and transferrable skills. Optimize your resume with keywords and customize it each time you apply to a different position or company.
Related resources: Resume writing | Resume writing for remote jobs | Schedule a resume review appointment

2. Create a professional online presence (and clean up your personal social media accounts). As part of the hiring process today, many employers check a candidate’s online presence to learn more about them. This may be even more prevalent in the COVID-19 climate with employers having limited access to candidates in person. Take this opportunity to establish a professional online brand that you would be proud for prospective employers to see. Google yourself and clean up any inappropriate or questionable content. Create a LinkedIn profile, if you don’t already have one. Depending on your industry, you might also consider developing a digital portfolio or a website to showcase your work.
Related resources: LinkedIn tips | Handshake profile must-haves | Creating a digital portfolio | Taking a Professional Headshot From Home

3. Build new skills. In today’s digital age, it’s possible to learn almost anything through the internet. Use your extra time at home to build new skills that can get you ahead in your career. Study a foreign language or learn a new technical skill. Read a book or listen to a podcast related to your industry of interest. Complete an online certificate program or join a professional organization. There is so much to learn, and there are so many great skill-building resources out there. This is your chance to take advantage.
Related resources: LinkedIn Learning | Professional association search

4. Practice virtual interviewing. In the wake of COVID-19, many companies have changed recruiting strategies to reduce or eliminate in-person interactions. For job seekers, this means virtual interviews—so be prepared to take your next interview digitally. Choose an at-home interview space and check your technology. Research the company, practice commonly asked questions by webcam, and send a thank you email afterward. Through all of this, try to be patient if it takes employers longer than usual to get back to you. With the move to remote work and unexpected organizational changes, there may be delays in the hiring process.
Related resources: Interviewing | Pro tips for your video interview | Practice interviewing with InterviewStream

5. Cultivate your professional network. Social distancing doesn’t mean that you have to put networking on hold. In fact, this might be an ideal time to cultivate professional relationships, with most people having extra time at home and a need to interact with others. Technology makes this easy too. Use email or LinkedIn to reach out to professionals in industries and roles of interest. Ask them to set up a virtual meeting or phone call to learn more about their experiences and get advice. Embrace the sense of community by participating in an online forum or joining in the chat during a webinar. Don’t forget about existing connections either. This is a shared global experience, so this is your chance to check in with the people you know and re-establish old connections.
Related resources: Networking | Informational interviews

6. Get help from UCC Career Advisors. You don’t have to do this alone; our team is here to support you and provide advice along the way! Take advantage of online resources, 1 on 1 appointments, workshops, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re exploring careers and majors, looking for a job or internship, or getting ready for life after graduation, the University Career Center is here to help and can provide guidance specific to your goals as well as the current situation.
Related resources: UCC virtual services and events | Schedule an appointment with UCC

With the uncertain economic state, it is important that you use this time to maximize your career readiness and make yourself as marketable as possible. While it is true that some industries have slowed down hiring, others have not and may even have an increased demand for talent in the wake of COVID-19.

So stay hopeful, wash your hands, and try out these six ways to make progress toward your career goals!

Adapted from an article by Katharine Marianacci, courtesy of the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

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