Holiday Job Hunting

Career consultant Becca Shelton says not to wait if your New Year’s resolution is to find a new job. Shelton offers advice on how to best job hunt over the holidays, even during a pandemic.

"Those looking for job opportunities may experience slower communication in the recruiting and hiring process right now. With many working from home, receiving phone messages may be delayed, and email inboxes are more full than ever. So, practice patience as you await responses. Job seekers should certainly expect some interview questions to focus your ability to successfully perform remote work  Even if the job in question is not a permanent remote work role, it will more than likely begin that way until organizations open more fully."

"Holidays have always been a great time to network, but In a virtual world, as we’re operating in now, networking requires one to rethink their approach and the tools used to connect with others. You should always exercise courtesy when asking others to connect (by phone or video), and this time is no different. Reach out to others for help with the understanding that their life may be more hectic. Working from home, the lines between work and home are blurred, and they’re likely juggling many more things (as we all are)."

"Last year, we could rely on regular meet ups with colleagues, and annual in-person conferences, to network and meet new people. With those canceled for the foreseeable future, we need to find virtual ways of identifying and connecting with others. LinkedIn is the premiere (and largest) professional networking site, and has a variety of ways to find people to add to your network. Additionally, if you’re a member of any professional development organization, you likely have access to the member list or directory. Utilize that to find people in your industry and expand your network! Networking may look different now, but what has not changed is our desire to help others in their journey. You may be surprised by the kindness of others, even in this challenging time."

— Becca Shelton, UR Career Consultant

Contact Sunni Brown, director of media and public relations, at sbrown5@richmond.edu to connect with Becca Shelton today.