6 Strategies to Adapt Your Job Search Expectations,

If you were looking for a job at the beginning of the year compared to today, you would be traversing a very different landscape. COVID-19 has created a lot of uncertainty in both the economy and the employment market.

The decline in attractive job opportunities has resulted in candidates not having as many options as they would normally have. Consequently, with more job seekers in the market, there were three times as many applicants for one job as compared to 2019.

Despite such circumstances, it is still possible to find a job after tweaking your expectations and drawing the line in areas where you would be willing to compromise.

how to adjust your expectations when applying for jobs

1. revise your career goals

When you are unemployed and actively searching for a job, it is tough to establish your career priorities beyond being able to receive your first salary with a new employer as quickly as possible. Some candidates accepted the offer since the salary met their expectations, only to depart before the probation period ended because they disliked the work they were performing or couldn't fit into the company culture. They will have to restart the job search process, which will set them behind in their careers.

2. Look for part-time or freelance jobs.

Depending on your own financial status, you might want to look into part-time or freelance work to keep yourself financially stable while you wait for the ideal job opportunity.

3. get ready for remote interviews and build an online network

It is critical that you become acquainted with online networking events and video interviews in this age of digitalisation and remote working, since this will greatly boost your chances of being employed.

Familiarize yourself with the features of popular video programs like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, and Google Hangouts so you don't get caught off guard when it comes time to turn them on during the interview. Even if it's a little awkward, practicing mock video interviews with friends or family is encouraged since they may reveal peculiarities that aren't visible during face-to-face interviews.

4. Expect a longer time to hire and onboard new employees.

It's critical that you modify your hiring expectations as firms adjust their hiring standards. With so many prospects on the market, many businesses are taking longer to identify the ideal candidate with the most well-rounded skill set, as well as a good match for the position, boss, and culture. However, these unicorn candidates are extremely unusual.

5. Consider upgrading your skills.

Now is a great moment to identify your skill gaps and look for possibilities to advance your career. The industry is continually changing, necessitating the acquisition of new skills. The industry is continually changing, necessitating the acquisition of new skills. Pymetrics, WebMentor Skills, Learning Tree, and Knowledge Smart are some of the online assessment applications that can help you uncover your own skill gaps. You may want to evaluate your interpersonal skills, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills, depending on the nature of your work and profession.

6. Change your salary expectations.

It's vital that you adjust your compensation expectations in light of the overall reduction in hiring budgets at this time. It all relies on your areas of competence, though.

Some businesses, such as deep tech, with a severe talent scarcity, may provide a somewhat enticing compensation increase to people who move firms. Depending on your talents and experience, professionals working in areas where talent demand is low or where there is a talent surplus may nevertheless obtain a minor compensation increase.

Nonetheless, as part of the job interview, always inquire about your skill development and career advancement chances with your prospective employer. You will have a far greater chance if the employer can show that they are investing in you as a potential employee through upskilling programs, on-the-job training, or career mobility efforts.