For many of us, 2020 was going to be the year of new beginnings! But within a matter of weeks it all changed. Covid-19 spread across the globe and South Africa was put into lockdown. Those who wanted to enter the job-market were faced with so much uncertainty. Wondering Will Covid-19 Affect my Chances of Getting a Job? Find out more below.
How Covid-19 has Affected the Job-Market
Although it is a harsh reality, Covid-19 has greatly affected the job-market. With lockdown put in place, many people had to stay home. They had to wait for restrictions to be eased so they can start working again. Ways in which Covid-19 affected the job-market includes:
Companies Closed
With workers not being able to go to work, production came to a standstill and sales declined. During this time, many companies were not able to stay afloat and had to close permanently.
Massive Loss of Jobs
Due to company closure, dozens were left without jobs. Unemployment rates soared and showed no sign of decreasing. People were simply unable to find jobs due to lockdown.
Work From Home
From a decline in jobs, to a rise in working from home opportunities. Employees who were able to work from home could do so. These were mostly office jobs, such as marketing, technical support and customer service.
Industries Affected by Covid-19
Even though most companies had to go into lockdown, some industries were negatively affected by it more than others. These are the companies who did not make any money during lockdown as their work came to a complete shutdown.
- Events industry
- Travel and Tourism
- Hospitality industry
- Beauty industry
These sectors were affected more than others because of various reasons. They are more social industries, which conflicted with social distancing. Their work has to be done face-to-face, so working from home wasn’t much of an option to them.
Will Covid-19 Affect my Chances of Getting a Job?
With so many sectors affected by Covid-19, you might be wondering if you stand a chance in getting a job at all. At the moment, some industries offer more stability than others, as their demand is high and they have the option to work from home. But this all comes down to your level of skills and experience. If you have experience in the jobs in-demand, you stand a better chance of becoming employed. If not, getting a job will be a challenge.
Jobs in Demand During and After the Pandemic
Everyone wants to be a lawyer, doctor or accountant. These jobs are held in high esteem and are considered the best careers to have. But all of that has changed. Jobs looked down upon became the essential jobs that have greatly helped our society, risking their lives.
Cleaners – Cleaners became some of the most important workers, as they cleaned and ensured all work spaces are sanitised.
Retail workers – Even during the pandemic, you were still able to buy your basic essentials, with retail workers ensuring shelves are stock for your basic needs.
Drivers – No need to risk standing in queues, with delivery services bringing goods to your doorstep, like food and medical supplies.
These jobs have always been in-demand, creating employment for many. It also gives you the opportunity to learn skills and offers growth. Become a front liner worker, alongside nurses and doctors across the country.
Getting a Side Hustle – Will it Help me?
Getting a side hustle may not seem like the best option, but it will definitely help you. The opportunities are endless, as there are so many things you can do. From setting up CVs, to becoming a babysitter and making baked goods. Still not convinced? There are many benefits of getting a side hustle. These include:
- Earning money when you aren’t working
- Learning valuable skills like managing finances and your own business
- Gaining soft skills like excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- It looks great on your CV and cover letter
- Shows employers that you can take initiative and be independent
These are all amazing qualities that will help you get a job!
Should I Change Careers?
If you’ve spent years perfecting your art and built up experience, then this is no easy decision to make. The truth is, the effects of Covid-19 will be around for years to come. And it can be years before we see industries thrive the way they did before the pandemic. You don’t need to change your career. Start a job in a different industry for the time being. Adjust your skills to your new job and use your experience to help you complete your daily duties.
Gain the Skills you Need
The best way to find a job in these uncertain times is to gain the skills you need to be successful in any job you take on. And you can do all that and more with us. We offer a wide range of courses that will allow you to advance your career, even during a pandemic. We offer:
- Short Courses
- Accredited Courses
- Computer Courses
- Retail Management Courses
- Small Business Management Courses
And so much more! You can also study matric with us, which will help you stand a better chance of becoming employed. We have amazing benefits that will bring you together while social distancing. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Skills Academy is the word support in every way.
Secure Your Career With us!
Study via distance learning and learn all the valuable skills you need to thrive in your career. The times we live in may be unknown, but your studies don’t have to be. Speak to our course consultants for more information. You can:
- Call us on 0800 39 00 27
- Fill in our contact form for a call back
