Changing job in the coronavirus crisis? If so, we ensure you’re best prepared!

The coronavirus has left its mark on the employment market. For instance, according to the German Federal Employment Agency, the number of people looking for a job in October was 550,000 higher than the previous year. Experts are divided as to how the situation will develop. So, it is not surprising that 43 per cent of those looking for a change have postponed their job changes until 2021 (source: YouGov Deutschland).

Before the coronavirus crisis, the shortage of skilled professionals dominated the German employment market. While nothing has changed fundamentally in this, some sectors are suffering from the economic pressure more than others. Ultimately this is likely to simply lead to a shift in the attractiveness of certain sectors.

What does this mean for companies looking for specialists?

Specialists in search of a change who are not actively looking for a job, but who are open to offers, are waiting for special incentives. While salary continues to be the main deciding factor, soft skills related to corporate culture are becoming increasingly more important in light of the current situation. Those who are looking for a new job attach more importance to security and permanent employment contracts.

This has seen the requirements for employing care when creating the job description and selecting a candidate rise considerably. If, for example, companies (have to) let employees they have just recruited go after a short time, this will cause lasting damage to the employer brand.

That’s why the presentation of the company, strategic position and economic prospects are attributed special importance in Executive Search. Top candidates are looking for challenges with companies weathering the coronavirus crisis in a strong position.

So, there is nothing preventing candidates from changing employer: companies need capable employees, especially in difficult times. At times like these, companies often review their business models and start making plans for realignment. So, this is the right time to score points with know-how and experience.