Is now a good time to get a new job?
Covid-19 has changed so many things in the world, and the way we work has been one of the most significant changes that lots of us have had to deal with. With many of us working from home, speaking to our colleagues on Zoom and some people haven’t been into their office for getting close to a year now. Some might not even ever return to their office as companies and employees get used to the flexibility and cost cutting that home working has brought about.
However, with all the restrictions and people worried about stability in their job, is now a good time to start searching for a new job?
Crisis breeds opportunity
The pandemic has given all of us the chance to revisit our values and priorities. Have you found that your job just isn’t meaningful anymore? Do you want your life to go back to the way it was before the pandemic? If not, that might be a sign that it’s time to reflect on what will bring you satisfaction and fulfilment. Perhaps you were recently made redundant? It could be a blessing in disguise. Use this downtime to get clear on where you want to work and the type of role and title you're seeking. Consider the activities you enjoy and are good at. A crisis can provide incredible momentum for positive change. Use it to your advantage.
Some businesses are doing really well
Whilst this is a tricky time for many businesses, others have never been busier. Some companies such as delivery companies have been amongst those seeing huge growth in demand, which has also seen a rise in certain SaaS technology companies with many people doing more online ordering. Perhaps the most important sectors that have been thriving are pharmaceutical and healthcare businesses, particularly anyone involved in developing vaccines or reliable coronavirus test. Tech companies have seen a boom too, with more and more people working from home.
Is anyone hiring?
It may feel like there are no jobs available right now with so many people being placed on furlough or being made redundant. Plus, with many companies sending most or all their workforce to work from home, will they be hiring right now? Well, many companies are. Some of those who are doing well during the pandemic are actually growing and need more staff to keep up with the demand. Job seekers could use this time to do research and identify industries and companies that are currently hiring, customise their application materials and proof read everything carefully.
Remote work provides flexibility
Conducting a job hunt is much simpler when you are working from home. Remote work provides more flexibility so that if you are networking or land an interview, you don’t need to worry about leaving the office early or taking a sick day. The current situation allows you to be more prepared and relaxed during interviews. You can also take this time to learn new skills or take an online course that will make you better equipped for the next phase in your career. Now that companies have got to grips with utilising the technology, their processes are probably much more streamlined than they might have been in Spring last year. Companies have learnt all about the value of video interviews, and many are even comfortable onboarding and training new staff on video calls, so you might not even have to go into the office.
Summary
To summarise, you can get a good new job right now. Don’t hold back on your job search if you’re unhappy in your role. If you have worries about how stable your job is and fear being made redundant, then maybe now is a good time to at least start the ball rolling on your job search. There are still many companies doing well who are recruiting as they continue to grow. However, establish the situation in your current role. If you feel pretty safe in your role and don’t think it would be sensible to move away right now, don’t take the risk if you don’t feel comfortable doing it. If you think about it, changing job can be risky at any time. You might not enjoy it like you first though, you might not get on with your colleagues, or you might not be matched to the role as well as you first though. Do what you feel is best in your situation.
