It would be an understatement to say that these past few weeks have not been easy, and staying motivated seems to be a continuous challenge for all of us. We are all facing challenges in one capacity or another, be it from worrying about our health, getting groceries, and essential supplies (not to mention the scarce resource TP), to worrying about our loved ones and their well-being. It takes a toll on businesses to keep their employees on the payroll too, so one day when you wake up learning that your main source of income has been compromised, it’s understandable that you feel a punch in your gut.
You might be thinking, what do I do with all of this free time now? Should I get on Tik Tok? Brush up on my technical skills? Take new courses? Also, how do I support myself mentally and financially in the meantime?
It seems like a scary world - losing your job during a pandemic where the supply of candidates is much higher than demand. You may or may not feel pressured to find a new job immediately. This also might be a good time to sharpen the tools in your skillset so you can put your best foot forward whenever you are ready for the next opportunity.
I too have been affected by the unfortunate organizational layoffs due to the pandemic. I felt like I lost a little part of myself in terms of control when I came to learn of the news. But now, this becomes another variable. However, since then, I feel like I have gained a better understanding of this quote “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much”.
Throughout the past few weeks, I have come to learn of compassion in another capacity.
I have experienced and witnessed numerous people supporting one another through various ways; sharing job lists, resume reviews, network introductions, referrals, community groups, free subscription services, free coaching to large scale conferences and career fairs like the WomenTech Global Conference 2020, and the list goes on.
So, in letting go of the idea of me being alone in this struggle; the community has shown me and everyone that we are all in this together.
To whoever is reading this, you are not alone.
Pause...Breathe...1...2...3 First and foremost, when did you last clean up your Linkedin profile? It might be a good idea to start there.
Are you done updating your Linkedin profile? I have compiled some of the resources I have benefitted from that may help you get through this transition period in your life. Ready?
Health
Free meditation and mindfulness training
Learning Academies
Scholarships at Lighthouse Labs
Discounted workshops at General Assembly - 100% free workshops on Friday
Talent and Job Lists
The Help List - Add your name to the talent list if you haven’t already!
The Ultimate COVID Job Resource Stack
Job Search Management
Job Search Management and Career transition portal - 3 months complimentary access to those who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19
Community Groups
Support Community for those who have been laid off
Tech TO - Runs daily events
Toronto Women in Product Management Meetup Group
Coaching and Resume help
Podcasts
https://www.50conversations.com/episodes
Worth Reading Articles
How to get a job anywhere with no connections
Benched. Hope for Today's Job Seeker
How to leverage recruiters in your Linkedin network
Comprehensive List of Companies Hiring During Covid-19
Questions to ask during interview
Events
So there it is, some resources to equip you to navigate through these uncertain times.
Best of luck everyone! Please feel free to comment on any additional resources that might be helpful.
Author: Su Thazin Thin
Su is personally and professionally fuelled by a passion for innovative solutions that add value to our daily lives. Thriving in the intersection of strategy, product, and project management, she has worked with different organizations bringing complex projects to life. Su enjoys learning and building strong relationships with multi-disciplinary team members and clients, contributing to the overall success and growth of the organization she is a part of.