As we continue to see the light at the end of the pandemic, we’ve started to feel some of the expected negative repercussions. The dreaded “C” word has been followed by the dreaded “R” word as predicted. Recession. We were always aware that the effects of COVID on society would damage the economy, and people would lose their jobs, but it doesn’t actually make it any easier. Whether you were let go at the very beginning, or you’ve not been brought back after furlough, it’s a tough situation to be in. And the fact you are “not alone” can often just induce the “more competition for jobs” panic.

Ivanka Trump’s advice to the thousands of people who have lost their jobs to the pandemic was just to simply “try something new…”. Hmm… Because none of us had thought of that. Groundbreaking insight. 

What can you do to set yourself apart from others and ensure you’re in the happiest and most comfortable position for re-employment? We’ve pulled together some tips to consider below.

Don’t be afraid to boast. It’s not your fault you’ve landed in this position, so tell people the positive differences you were making to the company who unfortunately had to let you go. If you improved online sales by 100%, make sure you’re shouting about it. Success is measurable, make sure you are demonstrating those stats in your CV or social channels. You have value, show it, it’s not enough to say it.

Build a personal brand. Let the world know what you’re all about. One of the best ways to do that is to implement video content. Whether it’s selfie videos, TikToks or even a video CV, video is super engaging and the best way to get your personality across. You’re basically marketing yourself here and 92% of marketers say that video is an important part of their marketing strategy in 2020. So now’s the time to get using it, if you haven’t already.  

Use LinkedIn. Your LinkedIn activity alone can put you in front of hundreds of employers every day. Thousands of opportunities available to you at the click of a button. If you’re unsure of what to post, do your research or even watch some tutorials on YouTube. It’s best to mix it up with different types of content, pictures, videos, even gifs! Take note of what gets you the best audiences and engagement then work from there. 

Find out who’s hiring. It might surprise you some of the businesses who have thrived during the pandemic. Do some research and reach out to make connections with the most appropriate person as it might just be that your skills match. There’s a handy “Here’s who’s hiring” link on LinkedIn. Use it. And check out similar businesses too as it might just be there’s a role coming up soon and you’re first to the table by proactively sending your CV over. 

Consider remote working. If there’s one thing we learned from COVID it’s that we do not have to be in offices together to do our jobs effectively. So if you’ve got a chair and a table, the world is your oyster. So make sure you’ve extended your geographical reach in your job searches, and that you’ve got alerts set up to come to you daily too.

Use this time to learn new skills. There are so many free resources, utilise them, and put yourself ahead of your competition. 

Take risks, be bold. It’s always darkest before the dawn, you’re next move could be your best yet. Go for it. Pursue dreams and do something you’ve always wanted to do. 

It’s a rubbish situation and I’m sure there will be times you feel like screaming but do your very best to stay positive and be proactive. That way, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance that things will come good. 

Don’t get bitter, get better.