Recently the world has woken up to two of the biggest challenges to face humanity. Global pandemics and climate change are in the headlines every day. Both are mainstream topics of conversation in offices and around the dinning room table, and topics are children are part of and happy to contribute too when not Tik Toking on social media!!!

It is only in the last few days we have learnt about two new vaccines that will be part of the mix in the solution to fighting COVID. Normally taking up to 10 years to develop, the world has pulled together shared resources and research not only to accelerate this process, but to ensure less developed countries are not denied due to the financial costs. Today in the UK our government is
announcing a 10 point plan to creating a green industrial revolution, one of these being the banning of selling new diesel and petrol engine cars by 2030 accelerating our goals to reach net zero. Leading from the front it is hoped these standards will accelerate others at COP26.

Business during the COVID crisis has also shown both resilience and been innovative. Last week I ordered a takeout pizza from Domino’s, sitting in a car I watch an app give me a count down to where my pizza was in the cooking process and that it was now ready to collect. Not genius but very much offering convenience in a click and collect world. Carphone Warehouse has gone on-line with their stores now being more of a distribution network while the customer experience and service is delivered through online consulting rooms. Sofology offers a consulting room service to help you choose your next sofa. One of my favourites was the “Green House Dining Experience” in a pub in Yorkshire that in practicing social distancing decided that individual greenhouses for groups offered a good experience but served to fulfil a needed purpose.

This is why humanity has survived. Our ability to evolve, learn, and typically work for the collective. There have been many inspirational examples during the last 9 months and there will be many more.

We recently published a mini guide to helping individuals maximise their job search opportunities in what has become challenging times for many. COVID19 has accelerated changes in the market and caused a reset for a number of businesses.

Our observations of the years has been that often due to the lack of career hoping amongst senior business managers, they are not ready to enter the market and spend the first few months navigating through a minefield of inconsistencies and rabbit holes. We find ourselves sharing the same messages each time, a summary of this I have provided below.

CV
The starting point and most important part of your job search is getting your CV in order and ensuring it shines. Poorly presented CV’s will not cut the mustard, so dedicate time in getting this right. Think about your value add and ensure this comes across clearly in your CV, ultimately what makes you stand out from your peers. Answer why you, and you are halfway there.

Interim or Permanent
To maximise your opportunities, as well as looking for that permanent position, consider working on an interim basis if you are available immediately.

Social Media / LinkedIn profile
Once you are happy with your CV, ensure your LinkedIn profile mirrors it or any other social media profile that is an extension of your professional persona. The world is a looking glass and those searching for talent will utilise and cross reference multiple sources.

Networking
We cannot stress enough how important networking is. Make a list of previous colleagues, business advisers, executive search consultants etc. This is your day job.

List of top 10 to 20 target companies
Make a list of your top 10 to 20 target companies, competitors of your current or previous employers. Work this list alongside your networking.

News/Movers/Shakers
Just because you are not working, does not mean you can take your foot of the gas. Knowledge is king and can often lead to tangible conversations around where you can add value.

Job Boards/Search firms
Make sure you register on the likes of Executive Appointments and relevant executive search firms. This will give you visibility on the market and with regular fostered contact will lead to you seeing the right opportunities as part of your pipeline mix.

Most of these steps are straight forward and basic, but you will be amazed the number of people sitting around and waiting for the phone to ring. Good luck.