We are all excited to welcome a new year and to put the “unprecedented” year of 2020 behind us. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on all aspects of our lives, in particular our work and hiring processes. As we look ahead to what a fresh year may bring, it is important to recognize that the job search process has been forever changed. Here are some things you need to know about your 2021 job search:
Remote work and hiring processes are here to stay. Some companies will want their workers back on-site when it’s feasible to do so, but many will be looking permanently at hybrid or flexible schedules. It is also likely that remote interviewing will be more common than it was prior to the pandemic. This means that keeping your WFH skills honed and your video interviewing skills sharp will be key. One downside of the virtual interview is that a candidate is unable to enter a workplace and get a feel for the culture of the company. For this reason, job seekers will need to work harder to do due diligence on a potential employer.
Diversity and inclusion will be a priority. Some good news for the 2021 job market is that employers will be more focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. They will be looking to build diverse teams and to find candidates who are aligned with their company goals. You can find a great article about evaluating a company’s dedication to DEI written by The Muse here. Job seekers should also plan ahead for how you will answer interview questions regarding diversity and inclusion.
Expect more AI in the recruitment process. A lot of hiring managers already use software to help organize job applications. The use of this software and other forms of AI will continue to become more commonplace. What does this mean for your job search? To avoid being passed over by a tracking system, make sure you are applying for jobs that are the right fit for your skillset, and avoid applying for multiple jobs within the same organization. Use key words from the job description in your resume and your cover letter.
This past year has been a rollercoaster, and 2021 will likely have its fair share of obstacles. However, we at PS&R are optimistic that this coming year will be filled with plenty of bright spots and new opportunities. We look forward to working with you!