The pandemic is increasing digitalization of work and recruitment processes
During lockdowns, companies that could still operate had to adapt very quickly to social distanciation. One year and a half later, many workers worldwide still operate online.
When working from home was unusual before, it is now very common.
Companies had also to adapt their recruitment processes to social distanciation. Most organizations are digitalizing their recruitment processes: calls, video calls, online assessments, and online onboardings are now largely widespread.
Many companies choose to employ candidates remotely, or partially remotely. Most of the time, when you get hired for a remote contract, you will have to stay in the city, or at least the country in which the head office is located. You will see later in this article how you can make a difference from other candidates.
The pandemic impacted many activities and so increased unemployment
Many industries have been highly affected by the pandemic:
- Travel & Tourism: in Poland, in March 2020, the occupancy rate declined by about 40% in comparison to March 2019.
- Hotels, bars and restaurants
- Entertainment
- Conferences and trade shows
- Manufacturers
Overall, when it comes to high contact services, activity in these sectors was 25% below pre-COVID-19 trends.
Hence, it is not surprising that many people lost their jobs, or closed their businesses because of the pandemic.
On the other side, some sectors became winners in this pandemic
Fortunately, some activities have experienced unprecedented growth with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The following sectors are in high hiring demand:
- Pharmaceutical & Life Science: Healthcare jobs are in high demand and are projected to grow by 14% between 2019 to 2029 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- IT: with increasing digitalization among companies, IT is now a key success factor. Roles such as Database Architect/ Designer, Tech Support Engineer, Software Developer and ERP Consultant are currently in demand.
- Wellness: the global wellness market is increasing and now worths $1.5 trillion globally.
- Education: social distancing is also increasing digitalization in the educational system. This growing industry is expected to hire more in the next months.
- Digital Marketing: with the number of people shopping online, digital marketing professionals will continue to grow and be in high demand.
Priorities are changing: concerns for sustainability and equity are growing
More consumers are declaring that they are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. This sector is expected to grow: over the past five years, the popularity of searches for sustainable goods increased by 71% (Economist Intelligence Unit). From 2016 to 2020, the number of companies committed to sourcing practices that protect biodiversity increased by 45% in the food, cosmetic and natural pharmaceutical industries.
Recommendations:
1. Differentiate yourself from other candidates in the recruitment process
As mentioned previously, many companies are recruiting remotely. But others still want their employees to come to the offices (when the sanitary situation allows it).
Many people got very comfortable working from home during the lockdowns. This means that when they are looking for a job, they will only look for remote opportunities.
If you want to increase your chances of being hired, do not be afraid of coming back to the offices. You can still negotiate a few days per week remotely. Recruiters will highly appreciate someone who is flexible and motivated!
Another way of being noticed by recruiters is to check our guide to approach recruiters.
2. Don’t be afraid of change in work and life
Have you ever considered changing sectors, or locations? If not, it could be the right time to take risks and experience new things.
If you have this possibility, you can target the hiring sectors mentioned previously in your job search. If you are open to relocalization, Poland is a great option and here you can find out why.
If you are looking for new opportunities feel free to check our open vacancies. We are recruiting all over Europe for many sectors. Our multicultural team is dedicated to finding the best opportunity for you so feel free to reach us.
You can reach us at info@itselecta.com or +48 506 033 065.
Check our website to be sure you will not miss any vacancy that might be your future dream job also with different languages: www.itselecta.com
We wish you GOOD LUCK for your future interviews,
your ITSELECTA TEAM