You Have Two Choices: Prepare for the Position or Give Up

Reading time: 3 minutes

It’s no surprise that the coronavirus is driving everyone and their families insane (for example, my mom thinks I’m selfish because I went to a friend’s house and now we haven’t spoken for 3 days). Whether you’re watching the news or scrolling through your timeline, I’m sure you’re tired of seeing updates on the virus because then you realize: Our economy is taking a huge hit and businesses AREN’T HIRING. Recently, I attended a virtual sleepover with an organization called Black Girls in Media and a panelist confirmed that while most businesses have put a hold on the hiring process, this doesn’t mean that you’re shit out of luck. You have two choices: Prepare for the Position or Give Up. I’m job hunting as well and while I pray on it everyday, I know there’s more work that I’ll have to do to secure my spot for an interview after this crisis settles down. Here are some tools that will help you build your professional skills and prepare to not only LAND, but ROCK that interview!

Update your Resume

If you haven’t landed an interview for the jobs you’ve been applying for, chances are that your resume isn't standing out. HR professionals & Resume “bots” have preferences on the type of resume that’ll catch their attention or end up in the trash. Use this time to research key words and verbs to include for job descriptions, change your layout design, brainstorm ways to highlight the accomplishments you’ve made in each position & get a second opinion.

Connect With People in Your Field

If you’re socializing online, you should aim to connect with people who will benefit you in your career. Notice that girl that works at your dream job on your timeline? Start a conversation with her so you can market yourself, get to know her and get an inside scoop about the position. I’ve been meeting so many professionals in my field through LinkedIN by interacting with them daily and it’s helped me land interviews and valuable connections.

Learn a New Skill

There are plenty of webinars, online classes and websites that give you opportunities to learn new skills and news flash: most of them are FREE! Prepare yourself for the role by taking courses that’ll motivate you during your job search. Skillshare, LinkedIN Learning, and even Youtube offer classes that’ll diversify your skillset.

Research News That’s Relevant to Your Profession

Utilize your online time to stay up to date about everything related in your field. My profession is public relations and I’ve subscribed to newsletters that give me daily news on campaigns, PR job openings and other events hosted by PR professionals. It’s important to know what’s going on so that you can be credible when you talk to your future employer.

Creativity is KEY

Employers are expressing that they like when applicants highlight what they have to offer while creating visually appealing content. Put together that portfolio with high-quality visuals or videography. Instead of sending the basic resume and cover letter, make a cover letter video that’ll show your personality. Set yourself apart by thinking outside of the box.

Don’t use the quarantine as an excuse to slack during your job search. Start putting your brain to work. Once this is over, you’ll want to be considered a top candidate so trust the process and I guarantee it’ll pay off.

Kennedy Edwards - Creator of Kennedy's Kharisma / Atlanta Blogger

Hi! I'm Kennedy and I recently started a blog for African American women in their twenties! Born and raised in GA, I always grew up knowing that I had the perfect personality to connect with young women & I'm finally finding my voice. After graduating from Kennesaw State University in the Fall of 2018, I became depressed that I wasn't where I wanted to be in my life. While creating my 2020 vision board, I promised myself that I would stop the pity party and be the boss chick I was meant to be! My goal is to help twenty somethings become their bossiest selves during their life transitions by covering topics and giving advice about dominating your career, self-care, beauty and fashion and entertainment news!

Follow her on Twitter: @KensKharisma and Instagram: @KennedysKharisma

Please visit:www.kennedyskharisma.com for more of Kennedy’s writing and work.

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