YES, WE’RE OPEN
by Christina Mortel
Navigating the Post-COVID Job Market
Ready for a New Job? Resources to Get You on Your Way
SHIFT. The word describes what is happening in our almost post-Covid world. A shift in the workplace, a shift in careers, shift in job skills, and a shift in mindset.
The pandemic demonstrated how a virus could impact our economy. Disruption of work and home life, loss of family members, friends, and relationships were experienced by so many for nearly 16 months. As a result, people began re-evaluating priorities. Work was one of those priorities. Work - the how, when, where, is being redefined and spans many industries and professions.
The Bureau of Labor and Statistics July 2nd report details that in June 2021 the national unemployment rate was 5.9%. For vets, in the same period, it was 4.8%. What these numbers do not show are the challenges employers face to keep and draw much needed talent to their companies. Positions need to be filled as businesses expand to meet pent up demand.
Add employees who are searching for new jobs, and you can understand the challenge businesses face to ensure an environment that fosters a work life balance.
Employers are incorporating flexibility and benefits in offers to entice new and qualified workers to return to company worksites. These incentives may include a hybrid work environment - working partially remote and onsite, providing childcare onsite or emergency care for children and family members, and signing and retention bonuses. These considerations are now front and center for many job seekers.
Although there are many changes to work out and how we approach work, somethings do not change when it comes to the job search. Lee Ware, a Veteran Employer Liaison with Texas Veterans Commission Employment Team, shared these best practices when preparing for your job search and next opportunity.
Do not focus on one Employer - Be open minded and open to unexpected opportunities.
Do your research – Research the company and the position you are seeking. This will help to confirm why the company, its values, and its culture, are a good match for you.
Highlight your skills - Log onto the website such as: O*NET OnLine (onetonline.org) that allows you to translate your military skills to civilian language. This helps the hiring manager understand the breadth of your experience in their terms.
Prepare a good Resume, Cover letter, and Thank You letter. No longer can we submit one resume for all jobs. Automatic tracking systems scan the resume for specific skills required for each position. Applicants must customize their resume to address the job description and the employer needs. The use of Cover letters allows the applicant to hit the high notes of their qualifications. The use of a Thank You letter tells the employer that you are interested, detailed, and have good follow-up skills.
Be prepared for the Interview. Have a good 30 second pitch. Dress to impress - the first impression is sometimes the last. The more you know about the organization and the position they need to fill, the more it will increase your chances of success. If doing an online video chat interview, here are some helpful suggestions.
Whatever your next step is, take time to prepare and use these resources to help guide your search. Lee also mentioned that depending on the type of job and industry, the hiring process may take a few days to a few months, so plan accordingly. Remember to use your existing network to help find your next position. Informing friends and family may broaden your reach and shorten the time to your new opportunity.
Job Search and Training Resources
American Job Centers: American Job Centers | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov) . Search the closest American Job/Workforce Center by entering your zip code. It will bring up a list of locations including whether a Veterans representative is available at that site.
Veterans Employment And Training Service: Find a Job | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov) – This site includes a variety of resources and includes the CareerOneStop. There is an extensive list of training resources that includes apprenticeships and internships, certifications, and professional development as well as Adult Education and GED.
VETS | U.S. Department of Labor (dol.gov)- this site provides access to workshops for military spouses too.
Veterans Administration: Careers And Employment | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)
The VA offers Career and Employment assistance Careers And Employment | Veterans Affairs (va.gov); On this site you can find information on employment tracks for Veterans with disabilities to learn skills, conduct job search, and more. Contact information is readily available if you have questions.
Check employment websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, Zip Recruiter, and others. After setting up a few key words and location for your search, create an alert to notify you of potential jobs matches in the area. LinkedIn is also a good resource as recruiters search LinkedIn for candidates who are actively seeking employment.
Through ID.me program, Simple, Secure Identity Verification | ID.me, Veterans and service members can sign up for a Premium account for a designated period at no cost.
State and Local Workforce Offices
State Job Board. Register on the site to complete a job search, upload your resume, and search request assistance. Veteran employment resources may be listed on this site as well.
Job Fairs conducted by state and local agencies - The local Workforce will be aware of employment events as well as colleges, universities, veteran organizations, and agencies.
Resume Assistance. Workforce Centers also offer Resume Workshops for updating your resume.