Adjusting Your Career Post-Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic changed the business world forever and may have even altered your personal career goals. Whether you have been asked to come back to the office, you continue to work from home or have had to transition your own business to stay afloat, change has happened. As things begin to return to a sense of normal, you may find yourself wondering where exactly you fit into the new world of business. However you were impacted, here are some tips for adjusting your career post-pandemic. 

Pause and Reflect

Contemplate what you learned about yourself over the past year and how you feel about your current job state. For example, if being unexpectedly laid off made you realize you really didn’t enjoy your 8 to 5 office job, make a list of pros and cons. This will help you identify a possible new career option. Or, you may find you continue to like the career path you are on but don’t necessarily like the company. Make a list of the next steps and potential options for your career post-pandemic.

Talk to a Trusted Colleague or Friend

If you’re wondering how to adjust your career post-pandemic, talk to a colleague or friend to gain a different perspective. For example, if you’re considering taking your career into your own hands and starting a business, talk to several people who have launched a new business. Ask for their advice and not to sugarcoat it! They will be able to offer first-hand experience and wise counsel. They can also help you look at the idea objectively, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of stepping out on your own. 

Make a Transition Plan

Adjusting your career post-pandemic can be challenging, but it is easier when you have a clearly defined plan. Being prepared will ensure you don’t find yourself without a strong source of income or any job leads. For example, if working from home during the pandemic made you realize you don’t want to commute any longer, or you are still not comfortable working in an office with other people, have a candid talk with your boss. 

Start by asking your boss about the possibility of continuing to work from home. Or, ask about trying a hybrid schedule (working in the office X amount of time and at home the other). If that doesn’t work, start putting out feelers and researching new opportunities. This may turn out to be an exciting time for you to feel inspired to try something new. Don’t be hasty and make sure and give your boss ample time to find a replacement should you decide to move on. It’s never a good idea to burn a professional bridge. 

Navigating life after Covid is a unique experience, but planning before jumping is an essential part of finding a career post-pandemic that works best for your new lifestyle. 

For more information, check out The Protocol School of Texas. You may also like How to Maintain Strong Friendships During COVID-19. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.