“Charles Darwin observed that it is not the strongest members of a species that survive, but the ones that are most adaptable to change. That’s pertinent advice for today’s workforce. Due to the pandemic, companies and small businesses have been exposed to constant and unpredictable changes, and their employees are experiencing high levels of uncertainty and fear when it comes to job security. Today’s employees must be prepared to change jobs every few years, develop new skills frequently and adapt to the needs of an ever-changing workforce. If COVID-19 has forced you to reassess your current career path, here are some ideas for how to set yourself up for success.
Leverage technology. Technology has altered the way we work, but who says there isn’t a flip side? Before the pandemic, in-person interaction was critical to find a job. Nowadays, networking events have moved entirely to cyberspace. Due to this shift, it is easier than ever to connect with others worldwide. You can join groups and forums on LinkedIn or other networks where you can communicate and build professional relationships with potential employers daily.
Renew yourself. It’s never too late to learn a new skill set. Several institutions, such as Coursera.org and edX.org, offer free learning resources during the pandemic. Don’t underestimate soft skills such as communication, teamwork or flexibility. These are becoming just as important for employers as hard or technical skills. Now is a prime time to add new skills and knowledge to your résumé. And before you start connecting with industry leaders or potential employers, make sure that your résumé is up to date and relevant to the standards of the industry you are transitioning into.
Adapt quickly. To stay employed after the dust settles, you need to adjust to new ways in which work will be done. Don’t be attached to your current career or job, but experiment with several different ones. Instead of being fearful of losing your job, you should see every change, even a layoff or demotion, as a good opportunity to find a better one. Having a positive mindset is critical. Switching careers has never been easy, but right now it comes with unique challenges. Remember: Success is available for those who adapt by developing new skills and behavior.”
“Here are a few tips to make sure you put your best foot forward on your path to a new career.
● Post professional-looking profile pictures and delete any inappropriate content from your social media sites.
● Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that you use all the helpful features this platform has to offer.
● Seek guidance from a career coach to give you feedback on your résumé and develop a career plan.
● Consider your career a personal growth journey.
● Develop a positive mindset when seeking a new job or career path.”
Judit Lovas, the writer, is a personal transformation and success coach. She works internationally with ambitious professionals, giving them a road map to extraordinary personal, career and business. Judith can be contacted at hello@juditlovas.com. This article was republished with permission by Clara Ogunsemi
