The impact of the Coronavirus pandemic in the business world is definitely one for the books. Hundreds of thousands of businesses have been forced to shut down and lay people off, causing a huge dent in everybody’s occupational and financial situation.
One of the worst to be hit is start-up companies – eliminating almost 4,000 jobs in March alone, affecting sectors in transportation, artificial intelligence, and meal delivery, among others.
Although we have recently seen a slow reopening in the business sector, there is no telling if surviving startup companies will be able to overcome their losses in the future.
Until virus transmission is brought to zero, the very dynamic public health orders from the government to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic will continue to affect the commercial operations and employee management capacities of these small companies.
Although we are seeing a good trend in investments from different entities, it pays to be prepared for any turn of events.
Dealing with Uncertainties in the Workplace
All these uncertainties put a huge burden on many and has become a major cause for anxiety among millions of workers and employees worldwide.
So, how does one protect his or her career during a pandemic?
Although we see small companies scrambling to get back up in the last few weeks, where does this leave you when it comes to employment stability?
Here are some effective ways to take care of your career amid a worldwide crisis:
Communication is Key
This is the time for your to proactively seek information from your manager regarding the following matters:
- Financial state of the company including financial forecasts for the next 6-12 months.
- Contingency plans and business strategies that are being implemented and considered.
- Manpower projections, workload, and scheduling.
- Health benefits and safety at work.
You have the right to know which direction the company is heading so you can prepare in advance.
This will help you map out your next career move and cash flow within the upcoming months.
Be on the Lookout for Opportunities
If you have not been keeping track of opportunities outside your company, now is the time to do so. You need to be updated with the industry trends and opportunities should they arise.
Think of this as your way of not putting all your eggs in one basket.
In uncertain times like this, a back-up plan is a must for when and if your start-up company decides to cut their losses.
Having said this, it may be a good idea to prepare.
You may need to update your resume. A professional resume is seen as truthful – in which you need to provide your professional details.
In this way, it can lead you to possible interviews too.
Reconnect with People
Speaking of opportunities, take the time to reach out to people who are in a similar situation and ask for best practices.
They might be able to provide you information that you might find useful in gearing up for possible changes in your workplace.
Also connect with professionals in the industry and companies that you might want to work with in the future.
Keeping communication lines open may help you discover ways to generate new ways to earn income and other opportunities.
Reinvent Your Career
With changes in work schedules and workload due to mandated social distancing, you may find yourself having more free time on your hands.
Use this time wisely by acquiring new skills to better yourself.
One way to make yourself indispensable to your company (and be more hirable for the next position you apply for) is to upskill and gain professional growth and development.
Cultivate skills and knowledge to make yourself in-demand and so useful that your company might think twice about letting you go.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Know that this pandemic shall come to an end, and whatever you are going through, you are not alone.
Millions of workers around the globe are facing the same situation. Seek professional advice if your situation is causing too much anxiety and depression.
Your top priority should be your well-being. Do not be afraid to ask for help and reach out to family and friends. Access to mental health resources and help lines are a must.
Stay Productive
In closing, do whatever you can to stay productive. Having a routine can help you take things one day at a time.
Know that this is temporary and that you have the capacity to bounce back and to hit the ground running once the pandemic ends.
