The COVID-19 pandemic has not just been devastating to people’s physical and mental health. The economy, in general, has suffered, and many people have lost their jobs due to the pandemic.
Leisure and hospitality jobs, as well as the food service industry, have been hit particularly hard. This leaves many people searching for new work in an economic environment that is even more uncertain than ever before.
So, if you're one of those who are looking for a job, you might wonder: Which industries are still hiring?
Believe it or not, some companies are hiring despite the hit to the economy. Here are a few industries to pay attention to.
Delivery Services
One industry that is in need of workers are companies that specialize in delivery services. You name it—from package delivery to getting a meal brought right to your door.
The fact is that people have been shopping more online. And that means that those goods have to get to their destinations somehow! Positions could include drivers, package handlers, and more.
Grocery Stores
Another industry that is hiring even during COVID-19 is the grocery store industry. That means opportunities for store stockers and cashiers. However, there’s also room for delivery drivers.
Again, part of it is due to the power of the internet at work. More people are ordering their groceries online and then having their orders delivered to their homes.
Hardware Stores
Among the many interesting twists in the economy caused by the pandemic is an increase in home improvement projects. People all over the country have started remodeling their homes, either for personal reasons or to create at-home workspaces.
The good news for job seekers? A surge in home improvement projects means that retail hardware stores are looking for workers to fill the demand.
White Collar Jobs
As you can imagine, with the rise of remote work there is a need for workers to support this industry. Even though working remotely isn’t a new thing, the sheer number of people who have been working from home since the start of the pandemic has increased dramatically. According to Stanford University, 42% of the labor force in the United States now works from home.
Positions to help support this “new normal” include:
Technology-focused workers at companies that provide video conferencing services
Educators that teach remotely, including teachers, tutors, etc.
Online therapy programs
Video game companies (because you need something to blow off steam when working remotely!)
A Note about Freelancers
Freelancing is one area that has exploded during COVID-19 and the ensuing recession. When you are a freelancer, you may work on a project-to-project basis. Or perhaps you string together several gigs in order to make enough money.
Again, freelancing was already a source of income for many before the pandemic. However, an article by National Public Radio notes that the number of freelancers has risen 8 points to 36%, as compared to 28% in 2019.
Freelancing can have several benefits, such as a flexible schedule and the ability to work anywhere. On the flip side, it also means less financial security and certainty, such as few if any benefits versus being a full-time employee at a company. As with anything, there are pros and cons, but many people are giving freelancing a whirl.
Finding Your Path
Of course, with this new economic landscape, it can be difficult to find a new direction, especially if you are one of the millions of people looking for a new job. If this applies to you, consider talking to a specialist in career counseling.
Career counseling is more than just getting your resume up to speed. It is a place where you can discuss your feelings regarding your job transition and receive clarity from an objective source. For example, you may be worried about the future and whether you can earn a living. This can create anxiety, which isn’t helpful when you are in the middle of searching for a new job!
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The new economy is providing new opportunities for those who are searching for work. However, if you're confused about which way to turn, please feel free to contact me and learn more about how career counseling can help.