Five job hunting actions to do now

Covid-19 has turned the business world on its head in a matter of weeks. Many businesses that were hiring just a month ago have made a complete U-turn and are now grappling with the stark reality of laying off employees, putting jobs on hold and making redundancies. These businesses are having to address immediate business continuity issues, in an uncertain world.

As the leading sales recruiter for the East of England, we’ve kept our finger on the pulse and surveyed a wide range of clients throughout Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. We’ve come up with our top five tips on what you should do now and how to take advantage of our new coaching service, for those looking for a sales or account management role.

1.      Don’t panic – what is happening over the next three weeks is likely to be the worst of it

We’ve found that most companies are temporarily pausing roles until the COVID-19 outbreak has surpassed its peak and cases are in decline. So, by staying at home and self-isolating - it really is the best collective action we can all take. This in turn will enable companies to feel comfortable to start recruiting again. 

2.      There will be fewer sales and account management roles

 In times of uncertainty, candidates tend to stay put in their jobs until market confidence returns. Given that a large volume of vacancies in circulation come from candidates changing roles, this slowdown is likely to extend over the next three-nine months having a negative impact on the volume of ‘replacement’ roles coming onto the market.

3.    The candidate market for jobs will be more competitive

As witnessed in past recessions, a wave of exceptional sales candidates are entering the jobs market, many available immediately and looking for new roles. If you are one of these candidates, it is important now more than ever, that your CV is saying the right things to a future employer.

4.      Time to standout - upskill your CV and LinkedIn profile

Now is the right time to update your CV. Keep in mind that your LinkedIn profile is your public presence, so take the time to refresh your profile and include a professional photo. You’ll need to ensure your profile is fully optimised so that your details can be found in candidate searches.

5.      Get the right coaching

Over the past year, we’ve implemented video interviewing technology. This has been especially helpful recently, where companies have stopped non-essential travel and where hiring managers are based throughout the UK and overseas. Those companies who are still recruiting, have already embraced video technology by hiring ‘virtually’ and onboarding in this way. 

Over the next three weeks, we are offering a free 15-minute interview and coaching service for candidates. This unique coaching service will provide you with the opportunity so ensure you’re up to speed with interviewing by video. We will advise you on everything you need to know, including lighting, position, dress code, quality of camera, pace, etc. We will also send you your personal video recording so you can see first-hand how you come across and make any improvements for when you do the real thing! This free session will also include advice on improving your CV and LinkedIn profile.

With over 15 years’ experience, we know sales and account management recruitment better than anyone. So why not take advantage of this free coaching service and let us help you stand out in interviews and be best poised to succeed when companies start re-hiring?

Book your free slot now, by simply emailing: [email protected]