Top Considerations For Job Seekers Returning To Work Post-Pandemic 2021
Jun 18, 2021
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Unemployment benefits, government-assisted programs, and stimulus checks provided a way for American families to weather the storm amid the coronavirus pandemic. It gave them money to pay bills, and access affordable childcare, housing, healthcare, and food as millions of people struggled financially. Although these lifelines were helpful, new developments in 2021 mean they won’t be around much longer.With close to half of the nation’s population being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths declining, it seems the threat is almost over. Federal and local officials anxious to move towards “normalcy” have given businesses the green light to reopen. As a result, employers are urgently quested to fill vacancies and get a fully functional workforce. For job seekers, the increased opportunity for work has its ups and downs.
Job Seeking In Current Times
It’s been a while since you’ve had to actively search for a job. You’re probably apprehensive about the whole thing, but realize it’s necessary to get you, your family, and your finances back on track. As you begin brushing off your resume and applying to job boards, here are a few things to consider.
Remote And Hybrid Positions
Not everyone is anxious to return to the office. Some individuals are still nervous about contracting and spreading the virus. Others have made changes to their daily lives that require them to be home more frequently. There’s also the group of people with existing medical conditions (or that reside with someone with significant health conditions) that are apprehensive about returning to work.
Many employers want to be as accommodating as possible post-pandemic. That’s why some have opted to create new remote positions or develop hybrid schedules to appeal to new and existing employees. If this is something you’d prefer, it’s best to search job boards that specialize in virtual or remote positions. Keep in mind that while you’ll be working remotely, you’ll still be required to come in for an interview, undergo background checks, and complete onboarding paperwork and training.
Health And Safety Policies (Post-Pandemic)
While it’s commonplace to research a company’s culture, reputation, and background are ideal; job seekers should take things a step further post-pandemic. Since vaccines don’t protect you 100% and not everyone will get vaccinated, there are still health and safety risks to consider.
Look into what potential employers are doing to keep their employees, customers, and the communities they serve safe. Do they intend to keep mask mandates, social distancing, and regular cleaning schedules in place? Will they require employees to complete wellness checks and take COVID tests? More importantly, what programs and solutions do they have to help employees mentally adjust to returning to the workplace?
The idea is to apply for positions with companies willing to go the extra mile to prioritize the well-being and safety of their employees.
Lifestyle And Longevity
Though getting a decent paycheck is a priority for job seekers, salary isn’t the only thing worth considering. Being unemployed or working remotely amid the pandemic has shed light on many different things, from familial relationships to financial stability. You want to search for a place of employment that will accommodate your current lifestyle.
If you have aging parents living at home with you, you’ll want a job with a flexible schedule that allows you to be there for them. If you’ve decided to homeschool your kids, you’ll want something that will enable you to work late afternoons or early evenings so you can be there during the day.
As for longevity, look into positions most likely to remain no matter what the future holds. If there’s another pandemic or unforeseen event, you want to know that you’ll have a way to provide for your family during those difficult times. While the pandemic crippled some industries, others thrived. These are the types of organizations you want to work with to secure a better future for you and your family - even if that means taking a smaller paycheck.
As things return to normal, finding gainful employment is at the top of everyone’s list of priorities. Though having a regular paycheck again is ideal, don’t forget to consider factors like those listed above related to your personal and professional needs. Ultimately, these factors can help you narrow down your options and find a position that works best for you today and in the future.
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