Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many students wonder: Will I still find an internship, summer job or full-time position? What is my next professional step? The Business Career Center at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business reports organizations continue to hire in these uncertain times, although the traditional job search process may look different. Celeste Spier, associate director for career and professional development, shares the following tips to help students with the internship or job search.

Don’t Stop Your Internship Or Job Search
Organizations still hiring could be doing so in a different way now. Also, the number of opportunities might be fewer. For example, the hiring process could be done virtually, and the role itself might look different, such as remote work or part-time employment. Keep a positive and open mind, thinking broadly. Any paid work during this time provides experience and income.

Understand the Most Affected Industries
Fields most likely to continue or increase hiring of business professionals include financial services, health care, supermarkets, pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies, technology companies and services. Fields likely to reduce hiring include entertainment, such as sporting event and concerts, hospitality, restaurants, transportation, tourism, recreation, manufacturing, automotive and real estate.

Use Your Resources
Many tools exist as resources no matter where you live. Search and follow hashtags #CoronavirusHiring, #NowHiring or #Remote on LinkedIn. Check job and internship posts on Handshake. Schedule a remote career coaching session with the Business Career Center via MyPLAN. Take the time now to secure access to technology such as a computer, internet and web cam as well as identify a workspace where you can interview or work remotely.

Upgrade Your Skills
Use this time to upgrade your skillset. LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, EdX, Microsoft, and many other platforms offer free online courses. Look for training in areas or skills useful in your desired field to expand and improve your opportunities.

More Advice For Those Who Secured Job Offers
Some students who previously secured an internship or job offer now worry about it being rescinded. It’s true organizations must consider instances of transitioning the work to virtual, delaying start dates or canceling an offer. However, know they are trying hard not to cancel offers, Spier noted.

In the meantime, Spier encourages students to be patient and adaptable. Stay in communication with your employer and reply promptly when contacted, but understand the organization may not yet know all the answers. Make a financial plan in case you cannot begin working when you originally thought you would.

Finally, Spier said it is important you do not seek other job opportunities until you know the future of your position. However, if you find out a position is no longer an option, then start searching elsewhere. Schedule a remote career coaching session with the Business Career Center to help this process.

College of Business students may speak with a career coach remotely about any internship or job search-related needs by scheduling an appointment through MyPlan.

Learn more about the Business Career Center at https://business.unl.edu/careers. Published: April 16, 2020