CHANGE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GROW.
COVID-19 has clearly had a devastating effect on countless industries, many of which have altered their approach to best navigate through this constantly shifting landscape. The volatile environment we have so unexpectedly found ourselves in, has meant both businesses and candidates alike have been forced to show significant flexibility, resilience and adaptability during the hiring process.
Understanding there will be many people considering a new opportunity, whether enforced or perhaps after re-evaluating their current situation, we thought it pertinent to provide some insight of what to expect.
Having gleaned feedback from several senior managers that recently saw a change in employment, we were we comforted that whilst the situation is unprecedented, there is more reason to be feel assured than alarmed.
Interview
Early in the hiring process, businesses and candidates have often opted to hold a virtual meeting in lieu of a face-to-face meeting. The benefits of a face-to-face meeting of course remain but have been deferred to later in the process to ensure physical contact is minimised.
With an increase in initial virtual interviews, we recommend you prepare for this new experience to ensure you present yourself in the most compelling and natural way possible. To this end, we recently held a webinar with partners We Are Unity where you will find tips and tricks to assist your presentation. See here for more information on how to ‘win the virtual room.’
Process
With companies identifying potential gaps and opportunities in the market because of the pandemic, we have witnessed many taking a progressive approach to investing in senior talent, with long-term benefit outweighing short-term cost. These opportunities will vary depending on a myriad of factors, however businesses that are able to demonstrate agility in the market are those that will prosper the most.
An example of this being the high propensity of executive leaders working overseas that have displayed an increased desire to return to their home country. With this of course, is the increased difficulty and uncertainty associated with relocating during a global pandemic.
However, we have been thrilled by the manner in which businesses have responded to this and the additional level of care and assistance to help ensure the transition for the new employee is as seamless as possible.
Commencement
Whilst we initially held concerns around the ability to maintain a positive on-boarding experience, it appears both company and employee, through an empathetic and adaptable mindset, have embraced the conditions and ensured the best outcome possible.
Some respondents even found unexpected benefits because of the situation:
Conclusion
The general consensus of those employed through a hiring process during this challenging time, is that although the pandemic has complicated matters, people have been able to rapidly adapt to this change.
The result of which has seen many people make life-changing and career-defining moves despite the conditions.
After all, “CHANGE IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GROW…”
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Sean Kow is a Delivery Partner in the Executive Search team for Quinton Anthony, specialising in talent identification and market mapping. Through a thorough understanding of issues and trends drawn from market insights, sector experience and extensive industry networks, Sean is committed to forming longstanding relationships with all stakeholders.