Tips for looking for a job in the Corona crisis

Florian Tiefenböck studied human medicine at the LMU Munich. In March 2014, he joined as a student and has supported the editorial team with medical articles ever since. After receiving his medical license and practical work in internal medicine at the University Hospital Augsburg, he has been a permanent member of the team since December 2019 and, among other things, ensures the medical quality of the tools.

More posts by Florian Tiefenböck All content is checked by medical journalists.

The corona pandemic hits the German labor market with full force. Finding a job, changing jobs and starting a career - applicants had good chances up to now, but the conditions are now more difficult. What is important when looking for a new employer in the Corona crisis?

keep Calm

The previous job is gone - what now? “Just don't panic,” recommends Jutta Boenig, Chairwoman of the German Career Advice Association (DGfK). Because as bitter as the job loss is, at some point new perspectives will open up again.

Until then, unemployed people will receive financial aid. "Transfers continue as usual. You do not have to fear any disadvantage if you do not call in personally, ”writes the Federal Employment Agency on its website.

Those affected can register as unemployed by telephone. The employment agency then sends the necessary applications by post. There are initially no personal appointments on site. You can find more information on the homepage of the Federal Employment Agency in an FAQ.

Focus on skills

Think about what skills you can offer a company. Think outside the box: Are there any alternative industries in which you could be active? "For example, people are desperately looking for people in medical technology, the pharmaceutical industry and the logistics sector," says Boenig.

Applicants also currently have good chances at discounters and supermarkets, in agriculture, at IT and telecommunications companies and in the healthcare sector.

Prepare video interviews

Since the companies react to existing contact restrictions, the application usually does not run as usual. Many companies have put their classic recruiting processes on hold in the face of Corona.

Other companies hold their job interviews via video transmission. For you this means: Check at home early on whether you have the technical requirements for such video interviews. Also think about where the online conversation could take place - after all, the other side also sees the background.

A good exercise beforehand: try your hand at an application video.

Rethink job changes

Anyone who thought about changing jobs before the crisis is now faced with the question of whether it is actually recommendable at the moment. Boenig currently advises against a change. "It is better to first keep your feet still and think about what you can change positively yourself in your previous workplace so that you feel comfortable there."

Nevertheless, keep your eyes and ears open - especially when you notice that your current employer is economically struggling.

Expand and maintain network

Rely on personal networks and cultivate your contacts. “Don't complain, but find out how the other is doing and where support may be needed,” explains Sophia von Rundstedt from the outplacement and career consultancy of the same name.

And who submitted an application for a dream job before the crisis and is now eagerly waiting for an answer? "Just pick up the phone and ask the company about the current state of affairs," says Boenig. This is anything but inappropriate in these times.

Also keep your own profile up-to-date on career platforms such as Xing or LinkedIn. "Nowadays it is a mistake not to have a profile or an incomplete profile in the social networks, as more and more companies are orienting themselves towards it," said von Rundstedt.

Patience when starting your career

Newcomers to the job market have to have a lot of staying power and expect that it may take time before they are accepted for an apprenticeship or their first job.

Sometimes speaking unofficially to people who work for a company you want to work for can help. Sometimes you increase your chances if, as a young professional, you are prepared to cut back on income for a temporary period of time.

In the long term, young professionals shouldn't worry. “We are looking for young, talented people who will sooner or later be hired,” says von Rundstedt.

Option: seasonal work

The Federal Employment Agency advertises seasonal work in times of crisis. If tens of thousands of workers come to harvest, plant or clear shelves, they are largely missing due to the consequences of the corona pandemic.

This can be particularly worthwhile for people on short-time work and without current work, because seasonal work is short-term employment. The employment agency writes: "In contrast to the mini-job on a 450-euro basis, you can earn unlimited additional income with it - without having to pay social security contributions."

However, the following applies: You are not allowed to work as your main occupation and only for a limited period of time. The limit is a maximum of five months in a row or 115 working days in a calendar year.

Before you start a seasonal job, it is best to talk to an employee of the employment agency about what you need to pay close attention to. (ft / dpa)

Tags:  Diseases pregnancy birth drugs