In such times of trouble, Netflix, wine and our beds are usually the companions we turn to for a moment to unwind and take a break. As comforting as that is, there are also ways we can keep enhancing our employability and come out of this better and stronger!
Here are some handy tips:
1. Build and Maintain Your Network –
As digitalization takes over, it’s more important than ever to build up your online presence. If you haven’t already, create a LinkedIn profile. Update your experiences and post about your latest achievements, industry insights or even a few motivational words for your followers. Don’t be afraid to make the first move when expanding your connections. With working from home in the picture now, busy employees have more time to give to LinkedIn and share valuable advice.
Remember that we’re all in this together, so get in touch with your old mates and family members. Find out what they are up to lately and brighten up their day with some funny memories!
2. Develop New Skills –
With so much extra time in the day at home, perhaps think about trying to begin learning new skills that you might otherwise have put off!
Wanted to start your own YouTube channel or write for a blog? It’s the perfect time to start now. Employers look for someone that brings something interesting to the table. Find out what it is that makes you tick and get going. Whether it is digital illustrations, coding or learning a new language – there is always a way to learn online. To make it more fun, find a study-buddy and create a routine together!
Check with your university to find out if they have partnerships with Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or EdX to tap into some free courses.
3. Explore Virtual Internships –
With hundreds of insight weeks, internships and grad schemes being cancelled, companies are turning to alternatives such as virtually conducting insight programmes. Some are even conducting virtual panel discussions for interested students to get involved in. Participating and asking the right questions can help you stand out and expand your network.
You can stick to an internship in your industry or also explore something entirely new as these internships are open to everyone! Check out websites like InsideSherpa and WayUp to get started.
4. Stay Prepared –
Even though the other side of Covid-19 seems far away, there is no reason to not be prepared for what lies ahead.
If you’re going to apply for internships later this year, start researching and creating a timeline. Update your CV and Cover Letter and get them checked, practise assessment centre tests and interview skills and improve your commercial awareness. Check-in with your university careers centre to see if they are providing any online sessions or CV checks. Subscribe to company newsletters and news updates to keep on top of things!
Look into Chartr, Quartz Daily Brief and Bloomberg Media for free offers during the lockdown. There are so many ways to use this time at home productively!
Finally, even as you may take forward pointers from what I have said here, remember that above everything else, your mental health and wellbeing is the most important thing to protect in a difficult time such as this. Reach out to a trusted friend or relative if you want to talk or connect on BigWhiteWall.
Stay productive, practice safe social distancing and take care!
Words by: Sameeksha Soni
Edited by: Sarah Goswami