At the end of my Rope

[newbieguy]

I am at the end of my rope. I interviewed for a position over a month ago for a job I really wanted, and thought the interview went well. I was told numerous times by Human Resources they were checking my references, so I had hope..Weeks passed and my references had not been contacted. Like a fool I maintained hope. Two weeks ago I was told I would hear something in a few days. Then still nothing. Today I called and was told I did not get hired. This position was entry level, and I had a degree and everything. It's just frustrating when you get turned down time after time. When is someone finally going to hire me? I'm very depressed.

[WillyWump]

So sorry to hear that Newbie. But please keep your chin up and keep marching on, that's all you can do.

-Will

[phildinftlaudy]

What type of work are you looking for? Where do you live?

And, now for the end of the questions and a statement...

Don't give up hope. It takes a while many times to get a job - particularly in this market.

Key things:
If you are filling out an application online - make sure that you upload a resume (if you are given that option). ALSO - VERY IMPORTANT - if they give an option to upload a Cover Letter - do it - and tailor it to the company and the position.

I can't tell you how many applications I have reviewed that have a resume attached to the application online - but the applicant does not provide a Cover Letter - We give an option to do so, and when they don't, it can move their application to the bottom of the pile.

The resume is the employer's way of getting to know your employment history and skills; the Cover Letter gives them a bit of insight into your personality and to those areas that a resume just can't hit on.

Also, remember that an interview many times is the employer's way of assessing if you are someone who would be a good fit into their work environment and if you are someone that they would enjoy working with - so, it is important to keep the nerves in check (if you are nervous, best to tell the interviewer or panel that - it gets it out in the open and allows them to put you at ease - which most employers will do).

Also, don't be afraid to look for employment "outside of the box." Many times, it may not be a field you have worked in, but the knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies are similar - even if the job is completely different.

I asked what type of work you are looking for and where  to get an idea of positions that might be available in your area.... I do a lot of projects that involve targeted occupations and partnering with workforce agencies - so I am familiar with occupations that are available in many areas.

Also, you may want to have an third party take a look at your resume and your cover letter and critique/revise it, if needed.

I had a friend who was sending out a cover letter and not getting interviewed... I looked at it and one of the glaring things I saw was how she talked about "using my previous positions to advance her career."  There is not an employer out there that wants to hear this - employers want to know what you can do for them - how you can strengthen and complement their organization..... they don't want to hear what they are going to do for you or how you are going to use the position to get ahead (perhaps at a different company even).

Remember, that confidence is the key; passion is the key; and the old saying definitely holds true... never let them see you sweat.  Stay positive - no matter what...... and follow some of the above suggestions, if you want, and I bet you will be surprised at the result.

Feel free to PM me if you want to arrange to discuss this more outside of this thread.

-Phil

[Rockin]

You're not alone. I don't know your age but do you know that 50% of young people from Spain (around 25) are unemployed? How about those people in Greece? Times are tough but things will get better. Try to stay positive and maybe consider other less interesting options, even if it is for short time.