How I Got A Job During The Peak Of The Pandemic Thanks To CSS

By Lisa Osiako

The Corona pandemic brought just about everything in the country to a standstill. In the job market, many professionals lost their jobs, had to take pay cuts, and even others were sent on indefinite unpaid leave. With all the uncertainty surrounding the economy, many professionals resorted to putting their job searches on hold, as they evaluated the situation.

This uncertainty, however, did not stop Yvonne Chebet, from applying for a job she had seen advertised. Before the pandemic, she had applied for numerous opportunities without success, with the pandemic, she was not so sure how her job search would go, but she was willing to try.

Towards the end of March this year, just as the pandemic became a global crisis, we advertised a Sales & Marketing Job for our client, Innovative Computers Limited. We did this on our website and other partner websites and received 200 applications. We shortlisted 12 and recommended 4 to the client.

The client eventually met two candidates, and Yvonne was their preferred candidate.

I had a chat with her regarding her job search journey during the pandemic, and what kept her hoping for the best. Here is her story, and a few things you can pick from her experience.

What has been your career journey?

I have been working for about two years in the sales and marketing and customer service fields. Of the two years, I have been actively looking for a job for about a year.

I would say what has kept me going is my self-confidence and motivation to grow and be better. 

Did you know about Corporate Staffing before you saw this job?

I did. In my job search journey, I would constantly see your jobs on another job board – BrighterMonday. 

This one that I got, was no different. I saw it on that job board and decided to give it a shot.

In the one year you had been looking for a job, what kept you motivated? 

My family has always been my biggest support system. They would constantly encourage me not to tire in making applications because, at the end of the day, I did not have anything to lose.

Because of the impact on the economy, the application and interview process took over 6 months. What was going through your mind during these months?

Since the first interview had gone well, I was hopeful.

Also, you communicated with me on what was going on and generally assured me.

Through it all, I was hopeful that I would get to meet the client.

When you first sent in your application and heard about many other professionals facing pay cuts, unpaid leave, and even others being laid off, did you think you would get a job during this time?

No, I did not. 

With the pandemic being at its peak when I made this application and then having to wait for months, I just kept an open mind. 

Many job seekers are skeptical about finding jobs during this difficult time. Some have applied for numerous positions and lost hope. Based on your experience, what can you tell them?

I was also not too sure that I would get a job, but, I am proof that you can get a job during this period, no matter how long it takes.

Just have an open mind and know that there is something for you out there. Also, don’t lose hope. 

In summary,

The process of getting a job can sometimes take a longer period than expected. Even when uncertain of what the future holds, give it a try. You will lose nothing from applying.

Remember never to give up.