6 Digital Job-Hunting Tips Every Job Seeker Should Know for a Post-Pandemic Economy

The more COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed throughout the United States and the hungrier job seekers are becoming. Because the number of job opportunities are being multiplied, people are ready to begin a career change. Although we’re steadily moving towards a post-pandemic life, the traditional way of looking for a job may never be the same again. Today, the job-hunting process has largely transitioned into a digital format. This new technological change can be challenging to both new and experienced job seekers. In Monster’s Predictions for the New Year, Monster’s 2021 job posting revealed that the demand for sales, manufacturing, and technology positions have increased. Because in-person jobs are continuing to grow, employers are frequently evaluating candidates. Here are six simple tips on how to virtually promote yourself on your job search during the COVID-19 pandemic:  

1. Create Job Site Accounts

The first and one of the most important steps is to create an account on popular job sites such as Indeed or ZipRecruiter. These websites help job seekers find their next job easily and aids recruiters and hiring managers in directly contacting their candidates. Creating an account is free, and it allows the applying process to run smoothly and quickly. Adding your information along with a resume to your profile also allows employers to find you directly.  

2. Use Keywords on Resume

Don’t forget to update your resume! Before uploading your resume to a job site, check your information, correct any errors, and add essential keywords that will stand out to employers. According to Arran James Stewart, the co-founder and CVO of Job.com, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and most other leading job boards use AI-powered applicant tracking systems like iCIMS and Taleo to shortlist potential candidates. Because of jobs sites’ SEO, using specific keywords on your resume will ensure your information shows up in search results.  

3. Complete Online Courses & Earn Certifications

It’s never a bad idea to refresh your qualifications or learn a new skill. Completing an online course or earning a certificate will add value and character to your resume, which will demonstrate to recruiters and hiring managers that you’re self-driven. There are dozens of free online courses such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), Coursera, and edX. Some of these courses offer certificates you can receive after completing the course that you registered for. There are also paid course options that Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offers.  

4. Create a LinkedIn

Creating a professional social presence through LinkedIn allows you to present your best self to hiring managers or recruiters. Here are ways you can make your profile stand out:

• Have your profile set to “public”
• Add your current location
• Upload a professional profile picture
• Craft a compelling headline
• Choose your top skills
• Don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation
• Connect with new and current clients

 

5. Become an Expert at Remote Interviews

According to a survey from Gartner Inc., last April, 86 % of employers switched to conducting job interviews through videoconferencing technology as one way to still see candidates when they couldn’t meet face-to-face. Remote interviews will most likely continue to be used by recruiters and hiring managers during the job process, so it’s important to professionally present yourself through your webcam. Virtually presenting yourself is more than doing your hair and wearing a button-up shirt. It now refers to your computer set up, the lighting position, internet connection, and webcam angle. Here is an effective and quick 7-minute video on Virtual Job Interview Tips with LinkedIn’s Catherine Fisher. Zoom’s website also offers hundreds of backgrounds you can browse to find the most suitable option before your interview.    

6. Follow-up with employers  

Sending a thank you email is a quick and respectful way to demonstrate that you’re interested in the job position. After your interview, type a paragraph to the person you spoke with and thank them for their time. You can follow these tips on how to write a significant thank you email.   Here’s more information as you job search: Still looking for a new job? We can help! IHC has successfully placed thousands of talented workers with companies across all industries in the United States. To view our available job positions click here.