The COVID-19 pandemic has upended the way we live, work, and learn. The virus forced businesses and schools to close their doors, and it left many people out of work. As we transition into the post-Coronavirus world and job market, what skills do job seekers need to succeed?
In this blog post, we will discuss seven new skills that are essential for success in today's workplace.
Flexibility and Adaptability
The COVID-19 crisis has shown us that things can change quickly and unexpectedly. In the workplace, this means that employees need to be able to adapt to change and be flexible in their roles. For job seekers, this means being open to new opportunities and willing to learn new skills.
While many workers moved to remote business operations during the pandemic, as companies re-open their doors employees and job seekers must be open to transitioning to on-site and hybrid schedules. Similarly, many companies are understaffed, so employees have had to adapt to more flexible roles with some combined job responsibilities.
The job seekers and employees that will be successful are the ones who are open to change and take it on with dedication and a positive attitude while businesses rebuild their foundations.
Read more: Your Workplace Questions Answered: Returning to the Office
Tech Savviness
The pandemic has also accelerated the use of technology in the workplace. Many companies have turned to video conferencing, online collaboration tools, artificial intelligence, and cloud-based storage to keep operations running smoothly. For job seekers, this means having a basic understanding of these technologies and being able to use them effectively.
If you don't have much experience with these digital tools, check out some YouTube tutorials or ask a friend in a similar industry. You don't need to master every digital skill because your employer will train you in their tools, but some fundamental technology skills will help land you an interview.
Critical Thinking
The COVID-19 lockdown has forced us to think critically about the way we live and work. For example, many people have had to re-evaluate their spending habits and find ways to save money.
In the workplace, this means employees need to be able to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
For job seekers, this means being able to think on your feet and demonstrate critical thinking in your interviews. When asked a question, take a few moments to consider your answer before responding. This will show the interviewer that you are capable of thoughtful, reasoned responses, not only in your interview but in the position, as well.
Read more: How To Avoid Common Job Offer Mistakes
Creativity and Innovation
The pandemic has also forced us to be more creative in the way we work. With schools and businesses closed, many people have had to get creative with their work-life balance. For example, some parents have had to find new ways to entertain their children while working from home.
In the workplace, this means employees need to be able to come up with creative solutions to operational problems and projects. For job seekers, this means being able to think outside the box and demonstrate your creativity in your job applications and interviews. In any job assessments that you may have, use them as an opportunity to let your creativity shine. This is guaranteed to help you stand out in the hiring process.
For true career success, you will need to adapt to work cultures of creativity by being an innovator with bright ideas that fit our new landscape.
Communication Skills
Finally, the Coronavirus pandemic has shown us the importance of communication skills. With so many people working remotely, it's essential to be able to communicate effectively through email, instant messaging, and video conferencing. For job seekers, this means being able to effectively communicate your ideas and thoughts in written and verbal form on your resume, in emails and calls to the hiring manager, and interviews.
If you're not sure how to improve your communication skills, there are many resources available online. Take some time to read articles or watch videos on effective communication in the workplace. You can also practice role-playing with a friend or family member.
Read more: Common Technical Interview Questions and How To Answer Them
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the workplace in many ways, and job seekers need to be prepared for these changes. By mastering these new skills, you'll be well on your way to success in the post-COVID-19 world.
If you'd like to brush up on your skills to secure a new job in the post-pandemic landscape, one of our expert recruiters can help your prepare for interviews. Contact Us to learn more about how our staffing professionals at firstPRO can help you in your job search.
