Are you ready for the job market in 2021?
Category: Tips and Advice
Publish date: 05/03/2021
Are you ready for the job market in 2021?
With 2020 behind us, it's important you understand how to approach the job market in the most effective way. And for those of us looking to make our next career move, 2021 holds some promise but also uncertainty and possible trepidation. Covid-19 has lasted far longer than we ever could have imagined, and when exactly things will return to normal is somewhat of an unknown quantity.
What we do know is that Covid-19 has had an inevitable impact on the job market and has affected industries differently. Hospitality and tourism have obviously been impacted significantly whereas other industries have perhaps been affected to a lesser extent.
Industries where remote work can be undertaken through Zoom and other technologies have been able to adapt to the lockdown conditions more easily. And for Service leavers looking for jobs in 2021, a realistic assessment of circumstances and thinking nimbly about how to proceed is important.
Assess market conditions
Do your research. Get up to speed on what is happening in your desired industry sector. Are there parallel or associated sectors that are less impacted by the changes going on? It’s difficult to predict when industries are likely to recover, but research helps ensure that you're at least up to date with the latest developments in the industry.
Adopt a flexible plan
Keep your plan flexible and consider alternative options. Consider whether you can position yourself in an alternative industry sector that requires your military-found skills. And test your assumptions by asking ‘what if’ questions.
What would you do if your desired industry sector was unlikely to recover in the foreseeable future? Would you be willing to consider short term assignments, contract work or perhaps even further study to make yourself marketable and current?
This is where your personal resettlement plan can really help you put your thoughts and analysis of the situation in perspective. Have back-up plans, and be willing to test and adjust your plans as things evolve.
Remain positive and motivated
Positivity builds momentum and momentum in turn builds success. As we often say, looking for a job is a full-time job in itself, and you need enough energy to persevere with your personal career plan. So keep your motivation levels high and remain focused and upbeat when market conditions tighten.
Review your weekly action plan and amend your approach where needed. Remember that even a small amount of progress each day can help move you towards your goals instead of remaining static. And be proactive - taking control of your approach really helps with maintaining motivation. Spend your time connecting with those who have a positive mind-set as this can help you retain a positive outlook yourself.
Make use of the resources available to you
If you’re facing challenges and obstacles, perhaps it’s time to reconnect or talk to your Career Consultant. When did you last speak to them? The CTP website offers many useful resources including RightJob, our online jobs board, which is filled with opportunities from employers actively seeking Service leavers like you. So remember to always check and remind yourself of what's available to you through the CTP.
After all, there might be aspects of your plan that you’ve neglected and overlooked that could be given more attention. For example, have you updated your LinkedIn profile? You can check out our resettlement guide for support on this, or book onto our Social Media webinar at your own convenience.
It’s the start of a new year. And fortunately, vaccines bring us hope that the job market is likely to improve in the future. So now it’s time to move forward with greater purpose. Take control of your future in 2021 - you owe it to yourself for getting through 2020!