As we write this post, the entire world is in the midst of the most colossal health crisis we’ve ever known. But what does that mean for individuals amid a job search? And how about those who have just decided to move on? Maybe the way your company has reacted to the situation has influenced your decision? Some less fortunate might even find themselves facing redundancy. Whatever your case, the question on every job seekers’ mind is the same; is it safe to be job hunting in times of crisis or is it just better to sit tight and ride it out?

It’s essential to keep in mind that a crisis is by definition, a period of intense difficulty. Right at this moment, the situation may seem extraordinarily challenging, however, everything will calm down at some point in the not too distant future. So whilst we’re all struggling to find any clarity amongst the chaos, we should reassure ourselves that this is only a short term scenario. With that in mind, it’s vital to keep in mind the bigger picture and continue to invest in your career development.

The Current Crisis

Right now, it is almost impossible to turn on the TV, log on to the internet or pick up your mobile phone without seeing a headline involving COVID-19.

Thank goodness, for most of us, the coronavirus itself will not be that serious. Although the knock-on effects it is having on the economy could have a significant impact on our lives.

Various industries are indeed suffering enormously as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. The future of the Travel and Leisure industry, for example, looks hugely uncertain. Many airlines, including Virgin, Ryanair and Easyjet, have grounded their fleets.

Tour operators have cancelled all holidays for the foreseeable future, restaurants and theatres are closing and festivals are cancelling their plans. Even travel on public transport is being discouraged.

The aviation industry alone expects to lose $113 billion in revenue as a result of disruption to business due to the virus.

Although the government has pledged to offer support to help businesses, sadly, many are likely to make redundancies.

Is It All Doom And Gloom?

Although not all business sectors are suffering as a result of the global health crisis. In fact, many are struggling to cope with the increase in demand upon their services. For companies operating in these areas, recruitment is still continuing.

Office workers celebrate their colleagues success despite the crisis — Job hunting in times of crisis can bring good news for some!

Businesses Sectors Still Recruiting Amid The Coronavirus Crisis

The Health Sector

Frontline NHS staff are more in demand now than ever before. What is less evident to the outside world, is the immense need to fill the behind the scenes roles which support our healthcare system.

For example, the software which enables the NHS to monitor patient conditions, keep their records up to date and secure, or protect the physical security of our NHS hospitals by providing electronic access solutions.

A nurse using technology to help her patient — We recruit for several clients who provide vital software and technology solutions for the NHS

Financial Services Sector

Financial markets all over the world have reported record lows, and the FTSE 100 reported its 5th worst day in history. Despite that, many companies are thriving due to the increase in demand for their services. These are just a few examples of how the impact the coronavirus is having on Financial Services:

Businesses need financial advice to understand the best action to take during such times of uncertainty
Individuals and companies alike may need temporary financial assistance to help them survive the crisis
Credit scoring systems are necessary for commercial organisations to make temporary lending decisions
Unfortunately, some people may need help to manage their debts once the crisis is over

a sci-fi looking woman holding her hands out as if she has data in her hands — Data scientists help businesses make critical decisions based on vast quantities of data

Technology Sector

In addition to providing the necessary services to keep other businesses going, the technology sector has a massive demand for specific skills to help the world get through the current crisis.

Data Scientists are needed to help businesses make critical decisions based on vast amounts of data
AI could help pharmaceutical companies find a suitable vaccine
Machine Learning is helping governments to understand how the disease is spreading and predict the future impact it might have
Call centres need technology professionals to install, maintain and support the systems which allow them to handle the increased number of enquiries

Digital Marketing Sector

As the current situation is so utterly unique, the general public have an increased demand to be kept up to date. Therefore, Marketing professionals are required to carry out the following activity:

Posting regular updates on social media channels as events unfold
Writing news articles to keep websites up to date
Making sure that the right messages reach the right people at the right time in the most appropriate way

Man using technology to assist his job hunting in times of crisis — Be prepared to make the best use of technology when job hunting in times of crisis

Technology Jobs Most In-Demand Right Now

To help support the following services and many more besides, we have an urgent need to fill the following vacancies:

Scientific Consultant
Technical Consultant
IT Project Coordinator
PHP Developer
Front End Developer
Test Analyst
Automation Test Engineer
Java Developer
Ruby Developer
Full-Stack Developer
Lead DevOps Engineer
Service Manager
Head of Content
Head of CRM
BI Developer
Automation Test Manager
IT Support Technician
Digital Marketing Executive
Business Analyst

If you have any of the above skills, we would love to have a chat with you! Alternatively, if you know of anyone who might be worried about job hunting in times of crisis, please share this post with them on social media – they will be sure to thank you for it!