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Anyone navigating a job search during pandemic?

notsobrady's picture

Submitted by notsobrady on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 8:47am

I've been quietly looking for another job. Not a hard search, but as I see things of interest I will submit my resume. 

I turn 50 this year and honestly the very last thing I want to do is start over but I am just not happy with my current situation. In fact, this month marks 9 years I've been with my current job and there has been zero acknoweldgement of my 9 years here.

A little insulting...but whatever.

So anyway..my goal has been to find work which is completely remote. We have a second home on the coast which we travel to often and scheduling time off of work has recently become a huge hassle. I want the flexibility of a remote work environment and if I want to go to our beach home for a month, I can.

I had a fantastic phone interview on Friday. This position is EXACTLY what I'm looking for. Fully remote, provides a Chromebook, internet stipened, flexible hours, increase in salary, etc.. I was invited for a 2nd interview via Zoom which is scheduled today.

Any tips on these types of interviews? I've never used Zoom so I'm hoping not to stumble getting started...

Comments

purplegirl201's picture

Submitted by purplegirl201 on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 9:09am

Good Luck with the interview. 

I'm 55 and in a meaningless job, no recognition or raises. I've been there 4 years .we are all working remote which I am grateful for becasue i hated the office we worked in. I myself have thought about starting a job search but don't have it in me to go through the whole interview process again.

notsobrady's picture

Submitted by notsobrady on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 9:12am

Thanks! I can totally relate to that! I'm being extremely picky. I'm just ready to slow down..I've worked since I was 14. I'm not ready financially for any sort of early retirement, but really just have no desire for the everyday commute anymore,

TheAccidentalSM's picture

Submitted by TheAccidentalSM on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 9:20am

I'm looking too but since I've been in my current company for years the process is daunting.

As for the zoom call.  Google how to check your computer camera.  You'll want to make sure that the camera is getting from a fairly flattering angle.  Wear a nice interview top.  Check your computer mic.  Maybe do a practice zoom call with a friend.  Make sure everyone else in the house stays off the wifi during the interview.  Apart from that its pretty much the same as IRL.

TheAccidentalSM's picture

Submitted by TheAccidentalSM on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 10:24am

notso, I've changed my mind having re-read your original post.  If you have never used zoom before, definitely do a practice call.  Its very straight forward but you don't want to be fumbling around trying to hit the unmute button at the interview. 

Slight horror story - This actually happened to someone I know who was interviewing for a role as a CTO using the TEAMS meeting app, needless to say he didn't get the job.  I don't understand how it happened as TEAMS and Zoom are easy to use.

ESMOD's picture

Submitted by ESMOD on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 11:36am

definitely practice and see if it is possible to have a "canned" background vs your home environment.  also..any kids, pets.. spouses.. goes without saying that you need to ensure they are absent from the call.

otherwise prepare as you might for a normal interview.  have some questions ready.. do your homework on their company.  sometimes you can glean info from sites like glassdoor etc.. figure out their culture etc... 

 

also, focus on your accomplishments at your current job.. .but that there is not room for growth.. vs they aren't recognizing you.. always be careful about 'downing" your current job or workplace.. no one wants to take on someone they think may be a professional disgruntled ee.. not saying you are.. just that keeping it positive is the way to go.. also focus on the things about their job.. remote work etc.. that is exciting and interesting to you.

advice.only2's picture

Submitted by advice.only2 on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 10:26am

Congratulations I hope it all goes well, sounds like it's very promising! I admit I am jealous I am stuck in a dead end job, no promotion in over 8 years and so far no prospects of any new jobs.

CLove's picture

Submitted by CLove on Mon, 10/26/2020 - 11:57am

I agree with the others...and will add, do some major self care prior to the interview. Ive been taking baths lately, with special salts and bars of soap and candles, scrubs, a mask. Special herbal tea (sometimes sparkling wine..) and the calmness and happy feeling elevates my mood tremendously, and I feel more confident and that will translate well over this remote interview. Biggrin

Good luck and keep us posted!