One thing that hasn’t seemed to change during this pandemic is the number of health IT leaders making moves. Since we provide interim management services at StarBridge Advisors, I track these moves 
closely. I’m currently helping a number of colleagues find new opportunities and having conversations about what it takes to make their job search successful.
I have written many posts focused on career management over the years. Much of that advice remains the same. But in this new environment there are also new challenges:
Updating your resume and telling your story – It is always wise to consider professional resume writing help or at a minimum ask a trusted colleague to review and give you feedback. Ensure your most recent work experience is updated and focuses on outcomes and results. And regardless of why you are looking, be ready to tell your story succinctly and consistently. It is your story and you need to tell it. This is even more important if you are in between jobs for whatever reason.
Competition – It appears to be a “buyer’s” market with many talented people looking for new opportunities. Whether you have decided it is just time for a change or you were let go due to a merger or layoff, you are in a very competitive market. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. It’s best to pursue several opportunities at a time. But be ready for disappointment. Only one person gets the job in the end. Don’t get discouraged. Learn from each situation and prepare for the next. My post, “So you didn’t get the job”, has some advice you might want to check out. Now is a good time to work your network, let colleagues know what you are looking for and nurture your relationship with search firms. And if you learn about a position that’s not right for you, let others you know in search who might be better suited for it.
Preparing for virtual interviews – It’s very possible that all interview rounds will be virtual, and you will never meet people in person until you start the new position if not well after you start. All the advice about professional dress and preparation is the same. But you also need to think about optimal camera angle, distance from camera, your background, avoiding noise or other distractions, and ensuring the technology works. And of course, feeling confident and relaxed while making sure you come across in an engaging manner. Practice and test out your setup in advance. Practicing various responses to interview questions can help you improve your video presence. Record your interview answers and play them back to see how you sound and look.
Relocating – Moving yourself and your family can be challenging in the best of circumstances. You might be house hunting and getting to know your new town virtually. That means making major decisions without first seeing where you will be living. If you’ve ever brought your spouse or partner with you on the final round of interviews visit and been shown houses and around the town by a realtor assigned to you by your future employer, you need to be willing to give that up. My post, “Thinking about relocating?”, highlights in general what to consider when relocating.
Onboarding – Developing relationships with your boss, your peers and your team may be virtual for the foreseeable future. Your people skills will be tested. Be creative as you find ways to get to know people that you aren’t able to spend time with in person. I covered these challenges in my recent post – “Starting a new job or client project in a virtual world”.
Regardless of the 2020 challenges, stay focused on your long-term career goals and key criteria for your next opportunity. And hard as it may be, maintain a positive and optimistic attitude. Bring your best self!
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