The COVID-19 pandemic changed careers for many people, leaving them totally shocked. With 2020 waving goodbye, younger people have started looking optimistically at 2021, with news of global vaccinations and nasal sprays taking off. With the world gradually recovering, some still feel lost and empty to continue through such challenging times, especially those laid-off last year. Picking up crashed careers is extremely challenging, but not totally impossible. If you sail in the same boat, understand it’s absolutely fine to be in the dumps. What’s necessary is to raise your head towards a great future. Set appropriate career goals to bounce back and recreate your goals. Some tips to guide your path ahead after the pandemic, are set out below:
REVIEW, REFLECT AND RE-EXAMINE YOUR NEEDS
Compare your career before and after the pandemic, critically and you realise how perspectives have changed. And what makes you happy. Analyse your qualities and shortcomings, what you need to give you satisfaction and write out your new 2021 career goals. Your search for the right career to fit what you need, begins. Recalibrate your needs and review career goals
INDUSTRY IDENTIFIES NEW SKILLS SETS
During the pandemic, companies have signalled shifts toward skills-building. Surveys suggest addressing skill gaps is an urgent requirement. 58 % companies confirm closing skill gaps in their workforces is top priority after the pandemic. 69% of respondents do more skill building now than they did before COVID-19 struck a very major increase than reported for other four actions. This is consistent with organizations’ predictions on skilling before the pandemic began. Redeploying talent for new roles, requires some degree of re-skilling, now more common this year. 46% of companies report redeploying talent as the second most critical activity for closing skill gaps. Additionally, results suggest this commitment to skill building is more than a one-time investment.
UPGRADING AND RE-SKILLING YOURSELF FOR NEW CHALLENGES
When anything stays stagnant for long, the preference for something new and fresh, increases. The same logic applies to your career; never let your skill-sets become stagnant. Be vigilant to notice if your superiors look for some extra needs. This is an opportunity to upgrade and enrol in courses that help in extending skills. This enables you to stay ahead of ever-present competition and keep up with industry’s changing trends. Develop inter-personal skills on Leadership, Adaptability, Learning, Critical thinking and Decision-making are most valued by employers, post-COVID.
MEET NEW PEERS
During the pandemic, socializing is totally digital. When slowly emerging to re-build, communicating has a purpose? People with similar interests converge at workshops or events to increase innovative streaks if you communicate. Discussing with others accomplishing what you desire, restores your aspiration levels and helps you move towards professional goals. You should meet experts to seek assistance to enhance your experiences. Always surround yourself with like-minded, positive people to boost innovation.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Over half of respondent companies plan to bump up expenditure on learning and skills-building in the next year, as compared to their investments in 2019-20. Setting the right career goals must be done based on your qualifications, skills, and your needs. If your previous job wasn’t satisfying, consider other fields for changes that benefit you. Read books, research, besides seeking professional guidance to find the right job.