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How to Job Search During a Downturned Economy

Man smiling at his laptop

We went from a job-seekers market to one of the highest unemployment rates ever in the course of about ten weeks due to COVID-19. This has affected job seekers but has not made it impossible to get hired. While the hiring process has slowed, you can get hired if you follow these tips for how to job search during a downturned economy.

Customize Your Resume for Each Application

When you’re applying for jobs, avoid just using the “copy and paste” method. It can be tempting to copy and paste your information as you apply for jobs, we highly recommend against this. Tailor your resume and work history for each job you apply for. We know it often takes time to update your resume, but it is worth it when your application stands out from the others. 

Be sure to read the full job description so you can pull out specific duties or responsibilities required you have experience with and make sure to highlight these skills on your resume. Most applications that are submitted online go through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that does an AI screening to look for specifics on a resume from the job description. According to Monster.com, nearly 75% of resumes that go through an ATS are eliminated because they don’t meet the requirements the hiring manager specified, such as the right skills, education level, or job titles.

You’ll also want to update your cover letter to each application as well. Make sure you’re hitting on specific parts of the job description and the company you’re applying to. It’s also crucial you address your cover letter to the person who will be reading it instead of using “To Whom it May Concern.” This is just lazy job searching, and the hiring manager will see right through it. You can often find the names of the HR or hiring team on the company’s website or LinkedIn profile.

Strengthen Your Online Network

Now is the time to start using LinkedIn if you’re not already. LinkedIn allows you to connect with the right people who can help you land the job you’re looking for. Some jobs are never posted online and are filled strictly through word-of-mouth or via a referral. Strengthening and engaging your online network can help you make connections to these “hidden jobs.” Let your friends, family, and connections know you’re in the job market – you never know who might have a lead they can point you towards. Utilizing your online network can open up a whole new set of job opportunities beyond what you’ll find using internet job sites.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out to former co-workers and managers. It’s likely they’re more willing to hire you back over other applicants because they already know your skills. Even if they aren’t hiring, they can be a point of reference for your other applications.

Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Even in a “job-seeker economy,” there is stiff competition, even more so when the market dips and more people are competing for the same limited jobs. It is critical you up your game to make your resume stand out by highlighting your transferable skills.

This goes hand-in-hand with customizing your resume for each application you submit. Read the full job description and pull out the requirements that match or align closely with your past experience in a way you’d be easily able to learn any gaps you might be missing. 

Consider Taking a Temporary Job

If you’ve lost your job as a result of COVID-19, it is worth considering taking a temporary job. Not only will it ease financial stress you might be feeling; there is the real possibility it could lead to a full-time position. Even if a temporary job doesn’t end in a full-time offer, it will give you great on-demand, transferable skills you can use to find your next position. EG Workforce Solutions has over 60 years of experience in Helping People Succeed; our temporary services could help you too as we have positions hiring now! 

Job searching is never easy; it certainly is going to be much more difficult in a downturned economy; however, by following these tips and staying positive, you will find a job. Be patient with the slower process as companies struggle to come back online or ramp-up to full function. We encourage you not to get discouraged and remember that you’re not the only job seeker struggling – we are here as a resource to help you succeed.

About EG Workforce Solutions

We’ve been in this business for decades and have developed a deep network of professional connections. Whether they’re companies looking for talent, job seekers looking for work, or an up-and-coming store in need of some temporary help, we know the right people to bridge the gap between the hiring and the hired.

But what’s more, we get to know people. From employers hiring to candidates looking, we take the time to listen and learn. We listen to your interests, talents, and needs. We gain an understanding, and with it, we’re able to facilitate lasting relationships between businesses and people.

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