It’s no secret: in the past few weeks, many layoffs have surged over the province, especially in fields such as the food service industry, which was hit pretty hard by repercussions linked to the pandemic. 

You might be a part of the group of workers that are now jobless, and even though a few job offers are still popping up here and there, it’s impossible to deny that job searching in the food service industry, right now, is no walk in the park (although… is it ever?). So you have two options: wait (im)patiently and refresh your restaurant job offers browser tab all day long, or consider changing fields and reorienting your career. 

If you pick the first option, we wish you the best of luck and plenty of patience in your research! If you pick the second option, here are a few guidelines that could help you get through the next few steps. 

1. Take a minute to accept the change

Changing career paths can be an overwhelming and upsetting step in your life, especially if that “choice” isn’t really a choice at all. Here’s the most important thing to remember: this transition isn’t a failure, and you’re not letting anyone down. 

When making a huge decision such as switching professional fields, pressure can quickly settle on our shoulders. We might feel as if we’ve failed, and that we weren’t able to reach the goals we set for ourselves and shared with others. 

That’s why it’s crucial to be understanding toward ourselves. And don’t forget that this doesn’t have to be a permanent change. On the contrary! It’s only a short detour on the path you craft for yourself. 

Consider this step as the perfect occasion to learn new things and widen your horizons. You’ll come out stronger, and with new tools in your toolbox. Each hurdle on your way is a chance to grow! (I know it’s cheesy, but honestly, it’s true, so you’ll have to put up with it!)

2. Dive back into your resume with a fresh eye 

There’s a chance you haven’t touched your resume in years. And yet, it’s necessary for you to revise it before diving back into job searching, especially in a new field. Make sure to adjust your skills and experience in order to emphasize the new type of work you’re looking for. There's an art to crafting a resume that highlights your skills in just the right light!

Numerous resources are now available to help you create the best resume possible depending on your needs. Don’t hesitate to put them to good use in order to catch up. Picture yourself fresh out of school! You’re starting over from the beginning, and it’s your chance to explore and widen your skills and knowledge. 

3. Keep an open mind

You probably have a clear, maybe limited, idea of what kind of job you’d like to find. It’s understandable! You don’t want to stray too far from the familiar terrain you’ve been exploring for many years. But this change is the perfect opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. 

Is there something you’ve always dreamed of doing but never could? Or something you never dared to explore, because you had some fears or doubts about this field or position? 

I know it’s easier said than done, but maybe hearing it one more time will convince you: don’t hesitate to try a new challenge, even if you don’t think you’re up for it. Apply for jobs even if they seem out of reach. It’s now or never, and you’ve got nothing to lose. You’re facing a cliff, so might as well make it a fun ride! 

And don’t be scared to try something that might seem a little less appealing. You could be pleasantly surprised!