The hospitality industry is full of twists and turns. The impact of COVID-19, however, is something not even the most season hotelier or restaurateur could’ve predicted. It’s an uncertain and scary time for everyone. Double that if you’re a recent college graduate. Not only have your graduation plans changed, but your job search itself could be on shaky ground. 

If you’re a job-seeking hospitality worker or a recent hospitality grad, here are a few tips to help you navigate the Covid storm: 

Network, network, network 

Have you heard the saying “it’s not what you know, but who”?  Chances are you have, but with the unemployment rate at record highs, networking could be what sets you apart from the competition. 

Now is a great time to review your career goals, as well as the ideal values and culture of your future company. Finding the perfect organization for you could be as simple as selecting “Company” on LinkedIn and typing in that one great cause or initiative that makes your heart sing. Once you’ve found a company or position that aligns with your vision, reach out to current employees for an informational interview — you’d be surprised how willing most people are to help! Armed with information about how the company works and what makes a successful employee, you’re that much more prepared for an interview. 

Most likely, your college or university also has resources to help you. They may have an alumni group you can join to make new connections or a network of companies they work closely with to introduce you. These resources tend to be severely underused.

You’ll also want to make sure you’re using the full gamut of social media platforms, while you practice social distancing. LinkedIn is the obvious choice, but it doesn’t have to be the only one. Twitter, Instagram, and even your favorite chat community could be where you find your next career move. Don’t limit your options. 

Expand your skillset 

In addition to taking advantage of your friends, family, and alumni network, you have the favor of time on your side. Recruiters are known for asking how you spent “gaps” in your resume, but being in the midst of a pandemic puts everyone in the same boat. Going the extra mile to build your skills, during what would otherwise be downtime, is a show of initiative and a sign of a self-starter. This will show potential employers you’re committed to the career and give you something to add to your personal narrative (we’ll discuss that later). 

In partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Foundation, a number of free hospitality courses are being offered by the AHLEI. Both single courses and certification programs are available now for entry-level and unemployed hospitality workers. The International Council of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education also offers accreditation and career resources as a part of its membership perks. 

Apply like you mean it

Actually applying to a new job is arguably the least fun of everything we’ve discussed so far. Plus, you’re graduating / job searching during one of the most trying times in current global history. Instead of letting it make you fret, use it! The hospitality industry will be returning to a “new normal” when things pick up. If you can help your employer adjust, you’re more likely to get a second look from recruiters. 

What have you learned during this time about the hospitality industry? Any new revelations about how the industry functions and how it could improve? Bonus points if you, as a potential employee, can help a specific company re-engage with its consumer base. So do your research, and be sure to highlight any ways you can help a company recalibrate.

What does this look like and where should it be highlighted? That answer can vary, but your cover letter is a great place to start. In addition to your education and previous work experience, a cover letter helps paint a picture of who you are as an employee, your goals, and your interest in the company. To truly stand out with your cover letter, however, you need to have a good handle on your personal narrative.

A little broader than a cover letter, your personal narrative is the story of YOU. What challenges have you overcome? What passions or encounters led you to the job you’re seeking? What excites you most? These are all good questions to have answers to both during your job search and during interviews. A little self-exploration will save you tons of time when reading job descriptions and give you a definite boost in letting your knowledge and agility shine!

Stay encouraged

Searching for a job during this time isn’t ideal, and it certainly isn’t something you could’ve foreseen. But staying the course will undoubtedly give you stories that employers want to hear about. In the meantime, think about ways you can gain applicable experience. Well-rounded individuals are attractive to all employers. During this very difficult time in our industry, it’s perfectly fine if you focus on developing soft skills like time management, effective communication, or conflict resolution. You may want to branch out to more tangible skillsets later, but now is the time to strengthen these essential skills if they’re areas where you struggle. 

Even if you don’t snag the job or company that you envisioned during this time, the connections and skills your nurture now can serve you long down the road. 

Lastly, and most importantly, keep your options open. Open your mind to all the things you can do and learn during this time. And open to the possibilities that await you after this slow period has come to an end. Because it will. If you remain hopeful and diligent, you’ll be prepared.