During the COVID-19 pandemic, you might focus your search on industries that are essential or that are part of the pandemic response. For instance, warehouses, package delivery services, grocery stores, and healthcare providers may be hiring. Similarly, you might be able to get a job as a contact tracer, phone customer service representative, or online educator. [2] X Research source
If the interviewer or hiring manager is listed, look up their LinkedIn profile and social media pages to learn more about them. Use this information to help you relate to them so you might have an edge over your competition. For instance, you might find that you went to the same school or have the same degree, and you could highlight that in your cover letter. Pay attention to their current goals and company needs. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, some employers have different needs than usual. Incorporate these things into your application materials. [4] X Research source
Your name, contact information, and email address at the top. Your educational background or training you’ve done. Your work history, including your responsibilities and achievements. Special knowledge and skills.
During the COVID-19 outbreak, highlight your remote work and technical skills because they’re currently in demand for some jobs. [7] X Research source Use active verbs to describe the work you’ve done at prior jobs or volunteer work. For instance, use verbs like “designed,” “implemented,” “innovated,” or “analyzed. "
Get each reference’s full name, phone number, email address, current title, and current employer.
Why you’re interested in the position. How you’ll be an asset to the company or organization. Why you’re the best person for the job. What you hope to learn from the job.
For instance, you might include more information about projects you’ve worked on or volunteer positions you’ve held that just don’t fit in the space you have on your resume. Add keywords related to remote working and technology skills if you’re applying for a job during the COVID-19 pandemic. [10] X Research source Virtual networking is becoming a popular way to make job contacts during the COVID-19 outbreak. Polish your profile and try to make connections with people in your industry. [11] X Research source
For instance, you might hide or delete photos of you during nights out on the town. Similarly, you might delete old posts where you complained about a job or joked around at work. Consider asking a few friends to review your profiles and tell you if they spot anything that might turn off a potential employer.
For instance, keywords might include things like “remote work,” “self-starter,” “innovative,” or “team player. ” Skills you might notice could include “proficiency in Zoom” or “ability to work with others. ”
For instance, the employer’s website may say to send your cover letter and resume directly to the person who’s interviewing the candidates. Similarly, they may ask you to address specific things on your resume, like your previous salary.
Consider typing your answers in a word processing document so you can easily proofread it. Then, copy and paste it into the application. If you want the employer to know something about you, such as past job responsibilities that relate to the position you want, include it in the relevant application fields. Don’t assume they’ll see it on your resume. Don’t use the auto-fill feature on the application because you might accidentally enter the wrong information in the box.
Make sure you pick the right document for this job. It might help to clearly label your resume and cover letter so you know which one is for which job.
Double check for typos, misspellings, and grammatical errors. Some employers might ignore your application if they spot these types of mistakes because they likely have a lot of applicants to sort through.
After you hit “submit,” you likely won’t be able to correct your application, resume, or cover letter. Make sure everything is perfect before you send in your application.
Your subject line might be, “Applicant for IT Position,” “Resume and Cover Letter for Gallery Attendant,” or “In Response to Job Posting. ” Your short message might say, “I’m excited to apply for the position of Gallery Attendant with your museum. As a museum member, I’ve spent many hours in the galleries, so I’ll be a great fit for the position. Please find attached my resume and cover letter, which will show you how I’ll be an asset for your organization. ”
You might wear a button-up shirt, slacks or a skirt, and dress shoes. To really enhance the professionalism of your outfit, put on a blazer or cardigan over your ensemble. If you’re applying for a job in retail or restaurant work, you might get a quick first interview on the spot.
Say something like, “Hi, I’m here to ask about a job. Is your hiring manager available for a quick conversation?” If they’re unavailable, ask when is a good time to return. You might say, “When would be a good time for me to come back?” If you see that the business is super busy, it’s best to come back at a later time. You won’t make a good first impression if you put your needs in front of the employees and customers.
You could say, “Hi, I’m Taylor Evans. I’m a regular customer here and am very knowledgeable about your products, so I think I’d be an asset to your business. I was wondering if you have any unfilled positions. ” Keep in mind that some organizations don’t have applications. In that case, they may just take your resume.
Only bring in 1 or 2 copies of your resume. Otherwise, the hiring manager may think you’re applying everywhere. Even if that’s the case, you want them to think that you’re specifically interested in their workplace. Don’t expect the hiring manager to read it right away, as they may be really busy. Keep a positive attitude even if they tuck it away.
You might hand it to them and say, “Thank you so much for this opportunity!”
Say something like, “Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to me,” or “Thank you for all of your help. ”
Keep track of when you applied for each job to make sure you remember to follow-up. During the COVID-19 pandemic, some hiring managers and human resources departments are overwhelmed and may be working from home. Be mindful of this when you contact them. You might wait a few extra days before contacting them. Additionally, keep your message short and friendly. [27] X Research source
For instance, don’t make demanding comments like, “I haven’t been contacted yet,” or “How long will it take for you to go through the applications?” Instead, say something like, “Have any decisions been made,” or “Can you give me a little information about the hiring time frame?”
You might say, “I recognize that the pandemic may affect your hiring needs, but are you still hiring for this position?” or “I know the hiring timeline might shift because of the pandemic, but do you have an overview of what I can expect?”
