As we begin a second lockdown, we understand this is a very uncertain time for everyone. The Careers and Employability Service is here to support you in exploring, finding and securing work opportunities. The pandemic has meant that there are now different approaches you can take when job hunting, as well as, a variety of ways to develop your skills from home, which in turn can support your mental health, which we want to share with you.
Below are a few positives that have come from the current situation, in relation to your career, which are important to highlight. We will also be sharing our advice over the coming weeks, for students looking to gain experience, prepare applications, apply and succeed in securing work opportunities.
Positives of lockdown and your career
- While so many people are still working from home, it may mean that you can widen your search when looking for jobs/experience (in terms of ‘location’), as many are now remote. It gives you time to reflect on your career goals and research new job roles. If you are considering your options, book a Careers Guidance Appointment to talk to a Careers Adviser.
- You can access a wider range of employer events and workshops. Many employers have moved their events online, opening them up to all students.
- Job-hunting whilst in lockdown provides you with an opportunity to develop skills, such as, resilience and adaptability, which are key skills employers value.
Before considering ideas of what to do during lockdown, it’s important to remember
- Self-Care is necessary. Do not feel pressured to ‘fill all of your time’. This has been a challenging year and adapting to a new normal can be hard. Of course there are things you can do to develop skills, which can also support mental health, but you need to do what’s right for you.
- Include some non-negotiables into your day, for example, taking regular breaks or going for a daily walk. Make the most of getting outside and exploring your local area, something our Careers Adviser Amy does regularly (the above image is from her walk before work)
- Stay in touch with friends / family, to maintain a good network. You can be creative to keep in touch, such as virtual dinner dates, virtual games and quizzes!
- Make time to do something you enjoy, whether it’s blogging, reading, binging a box set, running etc!
- Access support from Student Support and Wellbeing, whatever you’re going through, support is available at Kent, including appointments and wellbeing events.
Developing your employability during lockdown
Over the next few weeks we’ll be sharing our advice to help you gain experience, prepare applications, apply and succeed! Keep posted on our social media for our daily tips, and you can also access our ‘How to develop your skills at home’ guide on our Moodle page: DP4450, click on the tab Remote Working & Online Vacancies to access this.
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