The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes to the various ways in which people work – the processes of applying to jobs, interviewing, and even integrating with new team members can look quite different these days. The pandemic placed a greater reliance on video conferencing programs and remote work for weeks or months at a time, which means it could take a little time for employees to get used to being in an office environment again.
Here are four strategies to take advantage of during the pandemic and other uncertain time periods to improve your skills and increase your workplace productivity.
Be Flexible
COVID-19 has impacted how every organization goes about its day-to-day tasks, switching to working remotely is the most common example. It’s important for existing employees and job seekers to understand that these procedures will continue to develop over time. In order to best position themselves as valuable assets, job candidates and employees should demonstrate being adaptable and be flexible to workplace needs. Employers are looking to rely on employees who can respond to changes quickly and will help their companies stay agile when faced with uncertain times.
When searching for your next opportunity, it’s important to consider all types of positions, including temporary and contract jobs. These types of positions allow for versatility for job seekers looking to improve their skill sets and gain real-world experience at companies in desired fields, while also building connections and network relationships within the industry. Contract and temporary positions also allow skilled professionals to continue working within an uncertain or competitive hiring environment.
Focus on Reskilling
Employers frequently hire and retain staff members who have skills that will bolster the success of their organization and continuously promote their business objectives, especially during times of transition and change.
The quarantine period leading up to returning to the office is an excellent time to capitalize on the extra time you save from commuting and being stuck in traffic to focus on expanding your skills or reskilling yourself for the changing workforce. Consider spending some time reading books on your industry or learning a new skill or program related to your field so you can walk into the office with new expertise that can help further your career. Candidates and employees showing initiative and displaying a proactive attitude toward improving their skills will be more favorable compared to those who don’t.
Digital and Technology Skills
COVID-19 has forced many workforces to go remote and use communication programs they may not have otherwise used. Job seekers and employees who stay on top of how to use the latest video-conferencing applications and digital platforms will be preferable because they will require less onboarding and will not waste time troubleshooting or getting up to speed.
No matter what industry you work in, businesses are continuing to embrace digital transformation, whether that’s through Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cloud-centric applications, or an increased presence through websites and online retailing. Employees and job applications who show an affinity for these hot topics in business innovation will stand out from those who don’t.
Communication Skills
Effective written and oral communication skills are always highly sought-after in team members, but these proficiencies become even more important during times of change. The business world was forced to quickly become accustomed to working remotely and using video conferencing applications but will likely transition back to having more in-office meetings. Workers transferring communication skills from being virtual to in-person and who promote teamwork and collaboration will be important as teams adjust back into the office to help address any problems that may arise as people get settled in again.
Problem Solving Skills
Problem-solving is an essential skill for many jobs because it requires the employee to be able to critically think and determine how to overcome challenges and succeed. This skill is especially important during uncertain times because there may be more unexpected complications related to workplace transitioning, such as determining how to best align team member
Work With A Staffing Agency
Staffing agencies frequently place job seekers in great positions at leading companies. Since their recruiters are experienced in interviewing and onboarding new employees, they are able to help answer questions and provide recommendations on how to return to work safely and how to best integrate with new team members during times of change.
Looking for a new job during the quarantine? Visium Resources can help. Our expert hiring team has decades of experience in placing skilled professionals at companies that will build on their skill sets and promote future success. Visit our job portal for a list of available full-time, contract-to-hire, and temporary positions at leading companies nationwide.
1 thought on “3 Strategies for Returning to Work in an Uncertain Environment”
Flexibility is the key. Many people don’t care for change, but we are in a changing world. We need to be flexible to keep up with these changes. Job fields are changing, work environments are changing; we can’t fear the change but need to change our thoughts about what “normal” is.