After experiencing a crisis or a drastic life change, self-reflection tends to follow. The current pandemic has caused a lot of us to stop and think about our lives and our purpose - which leads to the question of whether one's career aligns with one's purpose.
Covid-19 may have been the boost that some needed to consider a career change, a leap into a new industry or even to pursue a whole new career entirely. But the pandemic has also shaken up our economy quite considerably. Security has risen in importance for those considering a new job. The pandemic has brought up questions such as:
"Is this a good time to be considering a new job?"
"Should I stay at a job that I no longer enjoy but feel established and secure with?"
The fear is understandable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 15.1 million people in the U.S. reported that they have been unable to work because their employer closed or lost business due to the pandemic in the month of October. While this number is an improvement from prior months, it is a factor that makes many potential candidates hesitate.
Not all industries have been affected in the same way however. Here at Tier One, we are still helping companies that have hiring needs, interviews are still happening and so is hiring. It is true that you are not fully aware of how a company is faring through the pandemic, but hiring can be seen as a positive sign that a company is in decent health. And this is true not just during a pandemic.
If this is not enough assurance, much research can be done so you can feel confident that you are making a fully informed decision in regards to a career move. Here are some things you can educate yourself on before pursuing or accepting a new job:
▪ How has that particular industry been affected by Covid-19?
▪ What is the company’s current financial situation?
▪ What is the long-term viability of the new position?
▪ How has your potential new employer navigated the current economy and environment?
▪ How have they helped employees with the challenges associated with the pandemic?
▪ How long would the probation period be and how long before benefits kick in?
| ▪ | How has that particular industry been affected by Covid-19? |
| ▪ | What is the company’s current financial situation? |
| ▪ | What is the long-term viability of the new position? |
| ▪ | How has your potential new employer navigated the current economy and environment? |
| ▪ | How have they helped employees with the challenges associated with the pandemic? |
| ▪ | How long would the probation period be and how long before benefits kick in? |
There has always been some amount of risk involved in moving on to a new career opportunity. Moving on to a new employer during the pandemic can still be an advantageous option. Like any other time, with careful research and an assessment of one's own risks and tolerances, you can still successfully pursue your career goals and find success in it. The pandemic might be that push you needed to make the change!
