What a year it has been! The Elevation Search Solutions team is actively keeping a pulse on trends in the job market as company leaders and candidates respond to the effects of COVID-19. Company needs are shifting, and like many, we expect an increase in remote work. Companies across all industries are being challenged to assess their workforce needs and potentially adapt with technology. Therefore, we are closely monitoring the evolution and expansion of remote work as well as workforce automation. We also predict there will be a need to refresh talent due to the demand for new skillsets as business needs shift. Due to the many demands being put on businesses there may be a need to find more qualified candidates for current roles to improve their business. So how do we practice and prepare as we look forward? The Elevation team has put together a “Top 5” guide for our clients and candidates.
Elevation’s “Top 5” for clients:
Keep it real
Whether it’s with your existing employees or prospective employees through the hiring process, keep it real! Check in regularly with your existing employees to ensure they have the support and mental health resources they need. We are all human, so let people know you’re human too!
Reach out a helping hand
If your business has been impacted by COVID-19 and you have had to lay off or furlough employees, you can still be an advocate for them. Take a moment to give them a recommendation on LinkedIn, offer to serve as a reference, or even utilize your network to help them transition. Every gesture counts and you never know if your small act can open a door for someone!
Hiring? Be responsive
Are you a company that’s hiring and in desperate need of fresh talent? First of all, let us know how we can help by emailing us at retained@elevationsearchsolutions.com. Secondly, be responsive! Even if a candidate is not a fit for your organization, take the time to follow up with them.
Stability amidst the instability
In this season of uncertainty, you are not going to have all the answers for your employees. With that being said, empower and ground them by making decisions based off of what you know today. Providing employees with resources, opportunities to connect virtually and regular business updates will help facilitate some sort of stability.
Be open
Create a safe space for your employees to share new ideas. We are learning new things every day and building a team environment reflecting different and diverse perspectives will take your business to the next level.
Elevation’s “Top 5” for candidates:
Spruce up that resume
Been meaning to update your resume for a while? Now is your time! Build it out, make it more visually appealing and highlight things you want an employer to notice. Start by adding a 2-3 sentence section at the top highlighting who you are and focus on utilizing strong action verbs when describing your key accomplishments in previous roles.
Social Media double take
Do you think employers just look at your resume and application? Think again, and do a double take on those LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter posts. The way you represent yourself on these platforms reflects your values and voice!
“Zoom room”
Since we are shifting from in-person to virtual connection every day, Zoom and other similar platforms are here to stay. Create a “Zoom room, or a comfortable, professional place to set up your virtual shop. Find a neutral background, set up your phone/computer so the interviewer can see from your shoulders up, and find some peace and quiet. When the time comes for a video interview, you’ll be prepared!
Follow up
Email the hiring manager to thank them for their time and consideration. Be consistent, considerate and follow up so you stay on your prospective employer’s radar and get regular updates on the status of the opportunity.
Utilize your network
Reach out to your network to share your background and what you’re looking for in your next role or company. People who know and trust you are most often your best advocates when considering a transition!
Whether you’re a client or candidate, we are all in this together as we navigate the unpredictable COVID-19 job market. Reach out to us at retained@elevationsearchsolutions.com if we can be a recruiting partner as you expand or build your company or if you want to learn more regarding our rapidly growing clients seeking fresh top talent.