Are you recently unemployed or returning to work after an absence? Or are you changing careers? There are many resources available to help you plan a successful job search.
Managing Job Transition
The loss of a job can make you feel powerless. You may have been laid off or had your hours reduced. Or you may have had to leave your job because of child care or other caretaking responsibilities that were unexpected and did not fit with your old job. Remember, many people are in the same situation you are.
Try these coping strategies:
- Stay positive.
- Create a plan.
- In addition to doing what you have to do to get a new job, do things you like – things that make you happy.
- Join a club or organization that gives you a sense of purpose.
- Manage your stress.
What Jobs are Available Where You Live?
Before you start looking for a new job, it is helpful to understand which jobs have many openings. Learn about the types of jobs that are available where you live.
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Is it safe to go back to work?
Information will help you make the best choices you can about job choices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Use the resources below to help you.- Vaccinations
As of March 30, all Minnesotans age 16 and older are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Learn how to find a vaccine on the COVID-19 Response site. - Worker Protections
Watch this video to understand what Minnesota employers must do to protect their employees during COVID-19. You can find worker protection information in Hmong, Somali, and Spanish. - Community Spread
The COVID-19 dashboard quickly helps you to see how many COVID-19 cases are in your area.
- Vaccinations
- Are there jobs open right now?
While many jobs have been impacted by the pandemic, there are employers who are hiring right now. Visit COVID-19 Job Search Resources to find a list of employers who are hiring now. You can also find the top careers that are in-demand during COVID-19. - How will the COVID-19 pandemic impact my job search?
Working remotely is common for many careers. Think about looking at jobs in other geographic regions where you can work from home.
Many job interviews are conducted online because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Use these tips to prepare for an online job interview:- Prepare the technology you will use and the space you will be in. Whether you use a computer or a smartphone, make sure that you are comfortable using the technology. Also, think about how the room you will be in appears to an employer.
Consider your camera position, lighting, and the background that will show on camera.
Practice using meeting software with a friend. Employers use a number of different tools, including Microsoft Teams, ZOOM, Google Meet, Skype, Webex, and others. - Even if you are meeting online, you want to dress for an interview. What you wear will depend on the job you are applying for – some jobs are more formal than others. Learn how to dress for success.
- Prepare the technology you will use and the space you will be in. Whether you use a computer or a smartphone, make sure that you are comfortable using the technology. Also, think about how the room you will be in appears to an employer.
It is a good idea to create a written plan of the activities you will do to find your next job. This way, you can make sure that you are making the most of your time. Use this job search schedule to help you create your plan.
Have you ever shared a job lead with a friend or family member? Or received career advice from a coworker? Then you have networked. Networking is connecting with people to talk about your job search or career goals. These connections are critical to a successful job search. Learn how to network to make connections for your career.
Use the resources below to help you as you search and apply for a job:
