Jobvite Job Seeker Report, Before and During COVID-19

This year’s Jobvite Job Seeker report looks at how people were finding jobs before COVID-19, and then during the pandemic.

Initially, 1,500 employed adults and job seekers in the U.S. were surveyed in February 2020. Then, to track the impact of COVID-19, they conducted a follow-up survey of 1,500 job seekers in early April.

Covering the first two quarters of this year, the 2020 Job Seeker Nation Report analyzes the two different sets of data. Findings focus on:

• How job market perceptions have shifted from February to April 2020.
• The level of stress and job insecurity challenging today’s workers.
• The impact of the current job market on salary and negotiations.
• How today’s job seekers are finding jobs and applying for them.
• The benefits and perks that are expected in today’s climate.
• The value of the candidate experience and company culture.
• Preferred communication and interview tactics and platforms.

Highlights of the Jobvite Job Seeker Report (conducted during the pandemic)

The last three months have brought more job insecurity to the marketplace:

American workers’ expectations of benefits and perks have remained about the same throughout the pandemic. Those that have experienced the most notable changes:

• Healthcare (still at the top): 64% in April vs. 67% in February
• 401k programs: 49% April vs. 44% February
• Mental health resources: 26% April vs. 17% February
• Paid family leave: 36% April vs. 30% February

Other expected benefits:

• 401k matching: 38%
• Bonuses + stipends (travel, health, performance-based): 37%
• Casual dress code: 37%
• Remote work: 25%
• Education subsidy: 18%

Candidates stated their preferences for communicating with recruiters and hiring managers, and interview methods:

73% of passive candidates are somewhat likely to respond to a potential employer after a personalized message.

Only 15% of workers are not at all likely to respond to personalized communication from potential employers when not actively seeking a new position.

Criteria for accepting jobs has shifted slightly:

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