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Acknowledge and Embrace the Uncertainty of a Job Search in Unpredictable Times

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by Jennifer Luna, MSSW

     A job search can be challenging even in the best of times. Now that many of us have settled into the atmosphere of a pandemic environment, we must search for new ways to overcome everyday challenges, such as meetings, appointments, and online learning. Job search for social workers in 2021 will be equally challenging. However, there are some implications of the pandemic, both economically and systemically, that may provide us new opportunities.

    The CARES Act provides resources or grant options for nonprofits, including $425M for substance abuse and mental health services such as community behavioral health clinics to provide mental health care services and grants to address mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness. There will also be $1B in community service block grants to local community-based organizations to provide a wide range of social services and emergency assistance.

    Although the number of all jobs had dropped significantly since the beginning of the pandemic, after the CARES Act, there has been a significant increase in social work jobs, rising each month. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in social assistance added 21,000 jobs over the month of October 2020. With this information, and regular updates from the National Coalition for Careers in Social Work Education, we are not seeing a decline in jobs available to social workers, but rather an increase. Social workers must be ready and available to apply for these positions, as the need will grow over time.

    We have also seen growth in the number of macro positions available, many related to social justice unrest. These include roles in advocacy; policy; community organizing; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

    Some examples of job titles that you should be on the lookout for are:

When and how should I begin my search?

    Start your job search now! Beginning a job search is a process, not an end result. A job search is an opportunity to freshen up your brand, chart your path, and gather tools to build your successful career. Your job search requires basic tools and preparation, including a good résumé, a framework for your cover letter, a computer, and a cell phone. The following are other elements that should be considered during this time.

    Create your work space and eliminate distractions. Now that many of us are working from home and interviews are being offered remotely, we must create a good space to conduct our work. Find a quiet, well-lit space in which you can control interruptions. For example, if you have a dog that barks when seeing people or cars, close the blinds. If your room is dark or dull, add lighting or a piece of artwork. You can also use virtual backgrounds, but make sure they are professional and you practice using them with others before you interview.   

    Make sure that your internet connection is stable and that the audio and camera are all working on your computer. With this in mind, it is important to start this process early so you can troubleshoot any issues. Close unnecessary tabs in your web browser to save memory. Sign in with a friend prior to your meeting, so you can assess that everything is working well. Again, practice cannot be overstated. Before your interview, tidy up your space! Your workspace should be clear of distractions, including sound, pets, and people. If you have to share your screen, make sure that your desktop is clear of distractions, as well.

    Don’t underestimate the importance of dress. We can get caught up in the habit of dressing from the “top” down when working remotely. However, it is important to prepare for an online interview just as you would for an in-person one, including dress. Prepare your clothing ahead of time and dress appropriately from top to bottom, to make sure you are prepared for anything (such as having to stand up and grab your power cord during the interview). Avoid wearing bright colors or busy patterns, which might distract the interviewer.

    Have a pen and notepad in hand, as well as a copy of your résumé and cover letter that you submitted prior to the interview. Stay engaged in the interview by nodding, listening, and smiling. Don’t use the camera/screen as a mirror for arranging your hair or applying make-up. Finally, use hand gestures while you are talking. A nice smile and a wave hello or good-bye goes a long way in building rapport in an online interview.

What if I have a unique situation?

    Many people have compared this time to the recession of 2008, when thousands of people lost their jobs, yet many employers were understanding of the situation. If you have been laid off, or had to leave your job because of family responsibilities, make an effort to fill the gap between jobs. You can fill these gaps through volunteer work, learning a new skill or certification, or taking a leadership role in an advocacy or community service effort. These roles will give you skills, professional contacts, and a context by which to explain the gap that you have on your résumé.

    People who continue to network and grow after they have been laid off are more upbeat and enthusiastic about their current situation and continue to be desirable candidates for jobs. Although it is not necessary to disclose your absence in the employment sector in your résumé or cover letter, it probably will be addressed in the interview. You may address this up front by answering the “Tell us a little bit about yourself” question. In this statement, you can mention that your company or organization was hit by the financial repercussions of the pandemic. Be positive in your discussion. Mention things that you have learned and experience that you have gained. Remember, resiliency and flexibility are crucial personal characteristics to have during this time.

    Do prepare for online interviews and ask questions to assure that the position will be a good job fit for you. Always remember that the interview is a two-way process, and now more than ever it is important to ask questions. Here are a few of the questions you might consider asking of employers:

    Acknowledge that this search is one that no one could completely prepare for. In addition to the pandemic, political unrest, and the rapidly changing job market, you must assess your personal needs. As you begin preparing for any job search, set parameters for your new job. These may change during the time of COVID. For example, if you are immune compromised or living with someone who is, you might need to work from home. Make a list of factors that you need to consider, such as:

Flexibility Is Key

    As you have probably observed, there are delays in nearly everything we are doing in everyday life. Appointments take longer. We must get our temperature taken and have a series of questions asked before we enter buildings. The mail and delivery services have been delayed, and many of the people who help us in government agencies have been furloughed or are working remotely. Please keep these delays in mind as you embark on your search.

    The first delay you might run into is in relation to social work licensing. In some states, the licensing testing centers have had to close because of COVID. Although most have reopened, there are safety guidelines in place, and fewer people can test at the same time. These types of delays will definitely overlap in your job search, so try to be patient and not take things personally.

    Remember, one of the most important components of the job search in this moment in time is transparency. Let the interviewer know where you are in the licensing process. One of the positive things we have seen regarding the social work job market is that employers really do show patience and grace when hiring. Many are social workers themselves, and they understand the challenges of this uncertain time. They want GOOD social workers!

    Remember, you got this!

Jennifer Luna, MSSW, writes about social work career development. Jennifer is a social worker, career coach, keynote speaker, and trainer. She serves as Director of the DiNitto Center for Career Services at the University of Texas at Austin, Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Jennifer utilizes a collaborative yet strategic coaching approach to assist social workers in identifying their strongest skills, areas of knowledge, key strengths, and leadership characteristics.

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