Have you been laid off in market research due to COVID? You’re not alone. We speak to several individuals a day who have experienced layoffs or furloughs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is affecting large corporations as well as small boutique consultancies. As much as we would like to think we are nearing the end of the crisis, the end is still unknown.
If you have been laid off in market research and are not sure what to do next, here are some suggestions.
Network, Network, Network
Connect live with those you know who work in market research to find out how their organizations are doing, and to put your hat in the ring for any future hiring.
Utilize LinkedIn. Join LinkedIn groups that share new positions and openings in the market research field. Connect with new people and try for an introduction. The market research industry is overflowing with kind and helpful people who are looking out for each other.
Join groups like Quirks, Insights Association and Greenbook so you can stay up to date on what is happening in the industry. These sites and groups are filled with free information.
Chat With a Recruiter
Send a resume to Lindsey at lbartlett@smithhanley.com or Daniel at dwilberschied@smithhanley.com and schedule an introductory call. Use your relationship with us to gain insight on the marketplace, on who is hiring and who is on hold. Gather clarity on how often positions you’re seeking are available, and gain perspective on your expectations. Most importantly, be on the recruiter’s radar for when applicable positions become available.
Master Your Resume
A recruiter or hiring manager will decide in less than 30 seconds whether or not they want to consider you further when looking at your resume. Make it no more than two pages and make sure to have clearly defined your accomplishments while keeping it simple. Reach out to Smith Hanley Associates for help. We are happy to take a gander and offer suggestions.
Spruce up Your LinkedIn Profile
Switch it to “active.” Make sure your photo is professional. Make all of the necessary updates. And, as mentioned earlier, join relevant LinkedIn groups and connect, connect, connect.
Activate Search Agents
Create search agents on Glassdoor to alert you when positions with the title and location you are targeting are posted. Use multiple titles, including market research, insights, marketing research and consumer insights. The more agents activated, the more openings will hit your inbox. Create Job alerts on google.com, with the same criteria.
Widen Your Scope
Conduct research on industries that are applicable to your skill set but be willing to consider something new. Perhaps you could relocate for a few years once COVID settles. Perhaps you could work as an individual contributor instead of leading a large team. Always be open to a conversation, you never know what things could lead to.
