The good news? Companies are hiring again!
The bad news? Things look a bit different right now.
Let’s take a look at 5 job search and hiring trends for 2021. If you’re a job seeker, pay close attention to the tactical tips so you can hit the ground running and land your next role sooner, rather than later.
Job Search & Interview Processes Are Taking Longer
Due to larger applicant pools and companies continuing to redesign the way they work, job seekers should anticipate a search to take 6-12 months.
Virtual interviewing makes it difficult for employers to get a good sense of your personality, so they are extending the process to include more decision makers. You could potentially be asked to complete 3-8 interview rounds.
💡 Tip: Get started now! Even if you aren’t quite ready to hit “submit,” start updating your resume and conducting mock virtual interviews.
A Shift Toward Career Changes and Part-Time Gigs
Professionals are feeling the “pandemic push” – the involuntary (or sometimes voluntary) decision to explore a new career path or consider part-time work. Companies are hiring again, but many are recruiting part-time workers until they are able to bring back full-time hires. If part-time is an option for you, it could be a great way to get your foot in the door at a target company. Meanwhile, some job seekers are using their newfound time to pursue passion projects and ramp up their skill sets.
Another workforce trend? Many Baby Boomers are taking early retirement.
💡 Tip: Update job search criteria to include “remote” and “part-time work”. You never know what you might find!
A+ Career Marketing Materials
Now more than ever it is important to have top-notch job search materials including an optimized resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. Comb through job descriptions to find relevant keywords and craft strong resume bullets that contain action verbs and quantitative metrics when possible. These should showcase results rather than simply listing responsibilities.
💡 Tip: Have a friend or family member review your materials for typos or use a free service such as Grammarly. If you’re able, consult with a career coach.
Network, Network, Network!
Referred candidates are 2x more likely to land an interview. Let family/friends know you are searching and conduct informational interviews with people from your industry and/or alma mater.
💡 Tip: Look up virtual career fairs, networking events, and industry education opportunities (many are free!). Connect with organizers and attendees by sending a personalized LinkedIn connection request.
💡 Tip: Engage with your network by liking and commenting on their social media content. Then, begin posting content of your own.
Video Interviewing is Here to Stay!
Employers will continue to use virtual interviews through 2021. They add a layer of pandemic protection, reduce office occupancy numbers, and eliminate candidate travel costs. Be prepared with quiet space, headphones to eliminate interference, and a professional background. Practice pausing before responding to avoid accidental interruptions.
💡 Tip: Practice responses to questions about how you helped your organization pivot during 2020. Consider times you showed leadership, flexibility, and creativity.
💡 Tip: Companies are also increasing questions around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Think of how you foster inclusion/acceptance in the workplace and/or times you’ve worked with a diverse group. This could encompass race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic background, or generational gaps.
Conducting a job search this year? We can help! Whether you need a standout resume/cover letter or assistance preparing for interviews, CM Career Coaching has you covered. Schedule an introductory call to learn more about our services and how we can partner with you to land your next role!