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Part-time & Temporary Job Searching

Getting Hired in a Pandemic

Part-time & TemporaryJob SearchingGetting Hired in a Pandemic

By Lisa Tessier, Assistant Director | Career Planning & Development

Job searching during record unemployment and social distancing is unique – some things have changed and some are business as usual. Many employers are still deciding on how summer hiring plans may be impacted. Career Planning & Development continues to keep up with hiring trends and strategies. Note: Watch for future newsletters covering internship and full-time job search strategies.


  1. Be Patient – When job searching, remember that employers are adjusting as well and may be delayed while dealing with internal issues at their organization.
  2. Network – Just as any other time, word-of-mouth/networking can be the best way to find a position. Be in contact with both old and new contacts in your network to let them know you are looking for a job.
  3. Be Realistic – Look for opportunities close to your career goals or that develop skills that will help you expand your career prospects, but be prepared to look at positions that are not not as relevant as you may have originally planned.
  4. Record a professional voicemail and answer calls from unknown numbers since many HR departments are working remotely, using personal phones. Check your junk email/settings.
  5. Get Virtual – Update your personal social media privacy and update and utilize professional platforms like Handshake and LinkedIn. See our Job Search Guide for tips on how to maximize your LinkedIn profile.
  6. Interviews – Practice your online interview skills highlighted in our newsletter since you will not be having an in-person interview for the time being. Don’t wing it!
  7. Beware of Scams – Scams are always a problem and they are expected to increase.
  8. Industries that are hiring – In addition to healthcare, grocery chains, pharmacies, and transportation; digital payment companies, video conferencing companies and personal services providers like grocery delivery services, house cleaning, online tutoring, and dog walking are in higher demand now too. Independent workers paid by the task or project to supplement income. Join online marketplaces and on demand apps. Some to consider include: Door Dash, Grubhub, Eat Street, Seamless, TaskRabbit, and Favor.
  9. Think outside the box – Check out how society is changing right now and how you might tap into your talents to create a niche market. Create a video series of making crafts for elementary age children, offer remote guitar lessons, or offer cooking tutorials!
  10. Schedule a virtual or phone appointment on Handshake with Career Planning & Development for personalized assistance with your search.


Ways to Save and Earn Money in the Short Term

Review your budget and cut unnecessary spending.

Check your tax filing status to see if you are eligible to receive a stimulus check from the government.

Clean out your closets and sell personal items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Letgo, thredUP, or Poshmark.


Set Yourself Up for Future Employment

If you are unable to find a job or cannot work right now, use this time to learn a new skill. Do some research about your chosen career fields to find what certifications or online trainings will expand your marketability. For example, take an online grant writing course, learn Adobe Systems Photoshop or master a software program. Or maybe just learn something you have always wanted to learn just for the joy of it!