Unemployment, A Change of Career, and Skills to Acquire

Unemployment, A Change of Career, and Skills to Acquire

With over 40 million Americans filing for unemployment over the last 14 weeks, the unemployment rate shot up to 14.7%. A lot of Americans find themselves without jobs and are now thinking of other ways to earn a living. A lot of people are beginning to explore options like a change in career or starting their own business.

I understand that some of you who might be reading this would probably be making this decision purely out of necessity. You may have unfortunately been laid off as part of company downsizing or your business might have lost traction and had to close down due to the Covid-19 pandemic. All industries big and small have been affected. None of us can afford to lose our jobs.

However, your circumstances might cause a shift in your perspective. You might be exploring other options. You have probably mulled this idea over but just couldn’t find the right time to make a change. Some don’t know where to start and have put off the idea of jumping careers or starting a new business until they have it well planned out.

If you’re reading this because you find yourself out of a job, I’m very sorry. Know that my thoughts are with you. We will get through this. You and I both. Let me give you some tips on how to succeed in a pandemic stricken economy. I hope this helps.

These are the most in-demand jobs amid Covid-19:

Jobs in healthcare are the most in-demand jobs – Registered Nurse, Doctor, Healthcare Specialist, Licensed Practical Nurse, and Patient Care Technician, then Psychologist, Medical Assistant, Emergency Room Nurse, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Nursing Manager. If you don’t have credentials to apply for any of these, here are the top jobs in-demand in the U.S. based on LinkedIn data: Store Associate, System Operator, Certified Public Accountant, Healthcare Specialist, and Construction Worker, as well as Warehouse Manager, Psychologist, Vehicle Mechanic, Academic Advisor and Delivery Driver[1]. Online business is also on the rise, with people needing supplies yet still having to avoid crowds. One good business to pursue is online selling of essential supplies such as food, pet supplies, household essentials, etc. Delivery service is also a good business venture to explore.

According to Forbes, these are the skills you should have in order to succeed in a post-pandemic world:

  1. Adaptability
  2. Flexibility
  3. Tech Savviness
  4. Creativity
  5. Innovation
  6. Data Literacy
  7. Critical Thinking
  8. Digital And Coding Skills
  9. Leadership
  10. Emotional Intelligence

The job market will be tight and competitive, so make yourself stand out by committing to acquiring these skills. Look for free and open online courses available on learning platforms such as Coursera, edX, Udemy, Udacity, FutureLearn, or iversity. Use the lockdown as an opportunity to learn and improve your skills. Any tips from you in order to succeed in a pandemic stricken world? Let us know in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!

Written by Jaie O. TheHelp


[1] Most in-Demand Jobs Amid Covid-19, Confesor, 2020