Getting a job in a pandemic

Now more than ever the job market is extremely tough to get into. When you do manage to secure that all-important job, the obstacles aren’t over, because let’s face it, working during a global pandemic brings with it a new set of challenges.

Former UoG student Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter, has offered some top tips for those struggling to adapt to working life right now.

“I started my new job at Hallam around four months ago, in between this year’s two lockdowns. To say it’s been strange is an understatement – it’s probably the weirdest new job experience I’ve ever had!

Permanent working from home isn’t forever – but it definitely has lasted longer than many of us thought it would back in March. For graduates who want to meet their colleagues, and experience the world of office work, this can be a nerve-wracking time, especially when mixed with the standard imposter syndrome felt by all of us at the start of a new job.

But it does get easier! Read on for my eight tips on starting a new job remotely:

• Everyone finds it strange at first
• Cherish the extra focus time you have right now
• Suggest an open online ‘room’ for the office experience
• Make an effort to ask people about themselves
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions about new technology
• Make sure you have a daily routine
• Track your progress
• Don’t know what career path you want? Read, ask, and read more

Many of us struggle to know what job to go into after completing our degree. If you don’t know what specific job to do, you should read as much as you can. Read widely about different career paths, and consume newspapers and online articles about people in different fields that might inspire you.

For instance, in my field, we have people who did journalism, English literature, English language, creative writing, linguistics and even marketing degrees.

There are so many different niches and approaches to take, as well as different roles you can experience, so it’s important to get a broad knowledge of absolutely everything.

Finally, you’ve already made a great decision at UoG.”

Read more of Kayleigh’s top tips for starting a new job remotely.