Do This If Your Job Doesn't Come Back After The Pandemic

Since the COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread layoffs, furloughs, and business closures, 38.6 million people have filed for unemployment. For some, the situation is somewhat temporary. Their employers intend to bring them back as soon as they are able. But, for others, their job might not come back even after the situation calms. Figuring out what to do can be a challenge, particularly if your inability to return wasn’t anticipated. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything you can do. If your job doesn’t come back after the pandemic, here are some steps to take.

Harness Your Transferable Skills and Explore Other Fields

Certain industries have been harder hit than others. Additionally, some businesses simply couldn’t shoulder the burden of the long-term closure, causing them to fail during the pandemic. In either of these cases, jobs may evaporate, leaving professionals without a place to return.

If this happens to you, it may be time to explore new fields. Not all industries experienced the same hardships, so transitioning into one of them may allow you to find a new position relatively quickly.

Consider which of your existing skills are transferable into other areas. After that, research potential roles in that field that you could reasonably handle. Once you have some options identified, connect with your network to learn about potential opportunities. Often, it’s easier to transition if you can secure a referral, which is why using your network is a wise choice.

However, you can certainly apply to openings, as well. In either case, you’ll need to revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile to focus on your transferable skills and accomplishments that are relevant in that industry. By doing so before you start applying, you’ll be able to streamline your process.

Acquire New In-Demand Skills Before Reentering the Workforce

In some cases, acquiring new in-demand skills before you start looking for new opportunities might be a smart move. Not all industries were evenly impacted, and certain sectors that are doing fine in this economy have been plagued by shortages for years. By gaining relevant capabilities, you could transition your career into one of these areas.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, focus on essential services. These continue regardless of the situation as they are universally critical. For example, medical and healthcare have to keep going no matter what. The same goes for grocery-oriented services, ranging from retail operations to shipping to food production.

Keep any job that continued during the pandemic on the table. Give each one a solid look and then consider pursuing one that catches your interest.

Consider Contract or Part-Time Opportunities

If the idea of leaving your field isn’t appealing, but you can’t find full-time opportunities, then consider going another route. Contract, freelance, and part-time positions may be able to tide you over for a period, giving you time to find a permanent job while keeping a source of incoming available and your skills sharp.

While navigating these uncertain times is challenging, that doesn’t mean you can’t position yourself for success. Use the tips above to come up with a plan, allowing you to move forward even if your job doesn’t come back after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides.

Do you have any other tips that can help people bounce back if their job isn’t going to return? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Tamila McDonald

Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.