Reaching out to Employers During Covid-19

May 12, 2020

With the beginning of the outdoor work season upon us, many of you might be wondering how the Covid-19 pandemic will affect your job search. Thankfully, the Government of Canada has declared the forest products sector an essential service, so there will still be many opportunities for youth to find meaningful work.

Initiating contact with potential employers is key. Here are some tips to keep in mind when reaching out:

1. Be professional

If you are sending a cold email or DMing a company through a social media channel, make sure your tone is friendly and direct. Your message should be short, easy to understand, and without spelling errors. Don’t use emojis or slang in your email or messages to a company or employer. Be professional, like the amazing employee you are capable of being.

2. Specify your interests

It’s fantastic that you love nature and the environment. However, this is not specific enough for most employers. What do they do that you really care about? You need to do your research. Speak to their actual work in relation to your skills and interests. Even if the employer can’t hire you, they might know someone who can, but they will only direct you to them if you are clear about what you are interested in and how you can contribute.

3. Advocate for yourself

Everyone can bring value to an organization. However, it’s a bit harder to demonstrate these skills when working remotely.

List out what strengths and skills you can offer while working from home. For example, if you are applying for an Environmental Technician position where the outdoor component is delayed, pitch to an employer what you can do now. For example:

• Reports/research you can review or write
• Provide administrative support
• Use tech-savvy skills to create a website on behalf of the company
• Write blogs
• Design or do social media
• Host online workshops and webinars

Think about how you can ease the company or organization’s workload. Remember that companies are also trying to keep their doors open and stay in business during these tough economic times.

4. Brush up your Social Media

The first place an employer will look, especially after you message them on social, is your social media profiles. Update your LinkedIn and Twitter profiles and keep social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram private unless they speak to your professional self. Start a blog about your work experience or create YouTube videos about your professional interests.

5. Ready to draft your message?

Look at the example below for an acceptable message to an employer. If you are sending an email, don’t forget to attach your resume and cover letter.

Don’t do this:

“Hey u hiring. Ready to work now.”

Do this instead:

“Hello,

My name is Omar and I am a recent graduate from Trent University with a background in Environmental Science. After reviewing your company’s website, I was very excited to see the Soils Surveyor position available. I have previous fieldwork and map-making experience and am preparing to start my Master’s in mineral wetlands in boreal forests in the upcoming school year. I realize that the position has been delayed until July, but I wanted to mention that I can also provide administrative and research support now. I would really love the opportunity to set up a phone call to talk about the position.

Thank you for your time,

Omar”

Let us know how your job search goes! It can be a challenging process, especially these days. So, try to be patient and flexible. If you need any help with your cover letter and resume, feel free to reach out to us.

Job Opportunities

Don’t forget to check out our available Green Job opportunities!

Other green jobs across Canada are posted here:

• https://www.goodwork.ca/
• https://workwild.ca/jobpostings/
• http://www.workcabin.ca/jobs/
• https://www.forestsontario.ca/resources/
• https://thegreenestworkforce.ca/index.php/en/career-paths/