The coronavirus pandemic is affecting almost every aspect of the economy. Companies are making drastic cuts and are adopting the idea of moving their employees to remote work to stay afloat but still, it resulted in a high number of people that have lost their jobs worldwide.
I am one of those people being affected and wondering, "How do I even search for a job in the midst of this uncertain time?"
In mayhem, anxiety, and uncertainty I still have the spirit of staying optimistic and believe that hiring will continue in select industries that have not been negatively impacted by the pandemic. It's not going to be comfortable but I can find a way to get by.
I was in a corporate world but had to stop working because of my pre-existing health condition that makes me vulnerable to the virus when exposed to it.
Just like others who lose their jobs, searching for a new one is uniquely a challenge during this time. When the outbreak started, It was a devastating blow both professionally and financially. But I have drawn on my extensive work background in accounting, retail management, and Information Technology.
I don't have an updated resume or active network, I don't have adequate savings for long term unemployment and I just finished putting my daughter through college. But the good news is the fighting spirit is still within me.
Job hunting started. Working at home as a virtual assistant is the most attractive option I see. So, I started my freelance job hunting online. I showcase my corporate experience in my portfolios. But the competition is tough. Companies are looking for strong new talent and those who have more experience in freelancing. Some employers are looking away when they came across with "newbies". How am I going to win this battle? Going out there barehanded will just make me vulnerable. How are you going to compete with millions across the globe? So here comes, The Filipino Virtual Assistant and took my worries away!
I enrolled in the academy and continuously polishing my skills now, with the help of my coaches Ms. Julmar Grace Locsin and Ms. Noemi Gonzales. I am able to equip myself with the skills I need to start up my own freelancing business. I have to be competent and also have to leverage my skills during this tumultuous time to stand out by being focused, strategic, and nimble to land a job that I am passionate about. To the newbies out there, sharpen your skills and never stop learning because technology is always evolving. And besides skills are learnable but being smart is another thing. Tons of success stories are out there, who knows we might be sharing our own one day.