It is daunting enough to graduate from college and know that you have a job search waiting for you. Complicating this task even further is the sad truth that now you have to find this job during a global pandemic. While this certainly provides another layer of complexity, all hope is not lost when it comes to landing that perfect job.

Here a few tips to keep in mind as you begin the search for your first career job against the backdrop of the biggest health crisis in a century.

Be Flexible

It is understandable that you had a set vision of how life would be like after you finally graduated college. Unfortunately, you may have to compromise a bit of this vision in order to secure employment. With the economy in a deep dive, you are going to need to be flexible as you begin your job search. For example, instead of finding a full-time job with benefits, you may need to compromise and sign on for a six-month contracting job until the economic picture improves.

Being flexible also may mean you need to live in a different city temporarily. It is important to remember that this is not a permanent situation and that you are not settling for taking a job that is not exactly what you had envisioned just one year ago. As a bonus, you may discover a new passion that you never knew existed.

Network, Network, Network

Now more than ever, the power of networking cannot be underestimated. Take some time to make a list of possible connections in your circle that may be a good resource for job leads. Be sure to reach out to these people and let them know that you will be graduating soon and entering the job market. While it is acceptable to continue to reach out to others in your network, it is also a good idea to be mindful of the current situation. Recognize that some people may have their hands tied when it comes to hiring.

If You Already Have an Offer

Maybe you were one of the few lucky new college grads who already had a job offer lined up prior to the pandemic. If this is the case, it is important that you check in with this offer to make sure that it is still moving forward. Many companies have instituted hiring freezes during this time of economic crisis. You should not take anything for granted during this volatile time. Checking in about the status of the job will give you peace of mind.

Focus on Your Specific Skill Set

In order to see the most success in your job search, you should let your skill set be your guide. You will get the most bites if you are focusing on what will truly make you an asset to an organization rather than what you see as your dream job. It is also recommended to look at the industries that are still hiring during this time and figure out how your skill set can be an asset. For example, if you have a background in accounting, perhaps you want to explore how to parlay that into a position working in the financial office of a hospital.

Continue Your Education

If your long-term career path included going back to school for an advanced degree, this may be the time to do it instead. Staying in school during a recession is generally a good idea. Even if you do not decide to forge ahead with your advanced schooling at this time, there are things that you can do to continue to update your skill set. This is also a good time to volunteer. The goal is to boost your resume so that when the job market rebounds, you will put yourself in the best position to finally score that perfect job.

It is easy to get down on your job prospects during this uncertain time. However, it is vital that you remember that all of your hard work in school will not go to waste. By focusing on the things that you can control, you will support your goals to weather this crisis.