As the markets remain volatile due to COVID-19, some industries are feeling the burn while other industries seem to not feel an effect. This has created a period where people are victims of large-scale layoffs and then begin to think on the possibility of a new career pivot. A very inspiring story that went viral on LinkedIn is that of David De Souza, a laid-off recruiting consultant who took the negative circumstances behind COVID-19 and turned it into an aspiring transition. He began delivering medical supplies for BOOTS, UK’s leading pharmacy-led health retailer, which offered him insight and advancement in a career field he had no original knowledge about. With this country’s unemployment claims now falling under 1 million, the first time to occur since early March, these career pivots could be becoming more common in industries that are growing during COVID-19. But what do these career changes signify in the goals behind job-seekers and how are recruiters adapting to accommodate them? I reached out to Michelle Croad, a PHR-certified talent advisor who implements university recruiting strategies for GM Financial, to get a better understanding on these applicants.
Hello Michelle, LinkedIn released its annual “Global Recruiting Trends Report” which provided polling evidence that showed an enjoyable company culture, comprehensive healthcare plan, and solid mission statement were the top three priorities of job seekers. For the year 2020, would you say those top three priorities would remain the same or has COVID-19 made any changes?
I think these three characteristics will still be top priorities for job seekers, but they may be evaluated in different ways than they have in the past. Job seekers are going to want to know how a potential employer has navigated through COVID-19. Actions speak louder than words and based on each companies COVID-19 response, candidates will have an understanding of how important a company’s culture and mission is to their foundation, which can create a strong sense of trust in the employer. I know I would not want to work for a company that treated their employees poorly during this time. I have also heard of employers who have such a strong culture that their employees are willing to volunteer to be laid off to help the company survive.
In addition, healthcare will remain important as individuals will seek companies that provide top healthcare coverage during a global health crisis. They will also seek additional healthcare benefits such as mental health and EAP support to help guide them through challenging times.
In comparison, with more companies considering the idea of increasing remote positions in their ranks, what skills will start making applicants more valuable?
Having flexibility and agility are key skillsets to set yourself a part, as an employee or job-seeker. As the COVID situation continues, many jobs are shifting. In order to stay relevant you must keep up with changes which may mean taking on tasks that weren’t originally part of your job description. However, take this as an opportunity to learn something new and expand your skillset. In addition, especially if you are starting a new job it’s important to gain as much exposure as you can in a virtual setting. Some ways to do this could include leading by example, contributing ideas, collaborating with others and raising your hand to help with additional projects or initiatives. If you find yourself unemployed, use your time to gain certifications and engage in upskilling activities that may increase your technical skillset. Research top technical skills in your desired career path and focus on increasing your working knowledge of these skills to help you to become more marketable.
Addison Group created an April 2019 survey that showed there can be different expectations from recruiters and job seekers on a post-interview timeline. Almost half the job seekers interviewed stated they would wait 1 week until losing interest, but 60% of the recruiters interviewed stated applicants should expect up to a month for the position to be filled. Will remote interviewing or virtual recruiting strategies change the total interview timeline and job seeker retention rate?
Yes remote interviewing and virtual recruiting strategies may help speed up the interview timeline. In addition, some parts of the interview process may become more automated as companies look for technologies that can reduce redundant or manual tasks. Technologies such as HireVue, Handshake and Yello will become increasingly relevant. Candidates should still ask the recruiter what the expected timeline of the interview process is, so that they have an idea of when they should hear back. If the candidate has not heard back by the timeline the recruiter provided, they can follow up. Often times there are delays in the hiring timeline due to factors out of the candidate’s control, such as unexpected PTO, other candidate’s schedules and changes in deadlines or urgent situations.
What will be important tips for recent graduates who are stepping into a virtual interview process on their first post-grad job?
- Treat the interview as if it were a live interview, you should dress professional and prepare as you would for a normal in person interview, as it will likely be the same questions
- Test the app you will be using prior to the interview to ensure there are no glitches
- Login to the app 5 minutes prior to the interview, unless told otherwise
- If you are using your computer for the video chat, also have your cell phone nearby in case there are any issues
- Gather contact info so you can reach out if you are having problems logging in
- Conduct interview in a well-lit area with limited or no distractions in the background
- Ask questions about the company’s response to COVID, this can tell you a lot about a company
- Relax! I find that video interviews can be less stressful
What will the overall candidate pool possibly look like for roles post-COVID?
There will likely be an influx in applicants for many positions, however in demand fields may become even harder to recruit for as company’s fight to keep this talent by providing additional benefits, such as flexibility and work from home opportunities. As a candidate, it will be important to stand out and leverage your personal network as you apply to openings. In addition, consider industries that are thriving due to COVID-19. Focus on relevant and transferable skills that may help you take on new opportunities outside of your original scope of experience.
