Entering the Workforce During a Global Pandemic 101

Written by Carlisle Rieveschl

As a college senior, I had a pretty clear idea of how my life was going to play out over the next year. I would work hard, line up a great job after graduation and take my last few months before graduation to really enjoy being a college student.

I think Woody Allen said it best: “If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans.”

In March 2020, my plans were promptly derailed when the world was turned on its axis by the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition into the working world is daunting enough under normal circumstances. No college course, job fair or advice from a parent or professor could have ever prepared me for entering the workforce during a global pandemic.  

Due to the fact that there are currently no college courses title “Entering the Workforce During a Global Pandemic,” here is my advice for navigating the job search process: 

1.     As we have all heard by now, we are living in “unprecedented times.” Arguably, everyone’s lives were thrown off track by COVID-19. It’s OK not to know what you want to do for the rest of your life, especially considering the circumstances. Many recent graduates, like myself, were forced to move home with their parents after graduation. Though it may not be the most ideal situation, try to make the best of it by taking this time to invest in yourself.

2.     Get your resume out there. Take this time to polish your resume and apply to all of the jobs in which you’re interested. Even if a company does not currently have an opening, it does not mean they will not have one in the future. This is a great time to build networking relationships (virtually, of course).

3.     Ask for guidance. Just because you have graduated college does not mean you need to figure everything out on your own. Reaching out to a parent, friend, professor or mentor can be a tremendous help in guiding you through the job application process.

4.     Communication skills are key. It is important to stay on top of following up. Sending thank you notes and following up with emails make a world of difference.

5.     It is going to be an ongoing adjustment. We’re all trying to navigate this ever-changing “new normal.” It is okay to feel a little lost right now. Don’t let that stop you from pursuing your goals. No one knows exactly what post-pandemic life is going to look like. Everyone is learning as they go, even your boss.