Job search strategy discussion thread

Did the call now.

I may do five months interning with the Asia Society since I was asked if I had a preference.

I'll have to see if another one will come by me or not.

I am feeling so incredibly dejected right now. I've been looking for work for practically 8 months now, without a single interview. I just saw a position I might be qualified for, and it's filled before the recruiters at the company I know could even get back to me. FML

My current "employer" is giving me the old "we'll call you when we need you" without actually just saying I'm fired. Suspect I stepped on too many toes; other employees kept showing up drunk to jobs but said employees were his favorites and I'm at the bottom of the totem pole so I'm the one to get shit on.

Bleh, even a restaurant looking for dishwashers wanted 6 months minimum experience. Only place openly hiring is a fast food joint that wants you on a 1099 contract with set (almost minimum) payment and guarantees no possibility of a raise.

I am in a vastly more competitive environment (the sciences), my issue is that I didn't really get as much research experience during college as I should have did to shyness and anxiety.

Tell me about it. I can't even get an internship when 1. there's only two people interviewing for the job 2. I'm the only one of the two who's in the relevant program

How the hell I am I supposed to find work in my field after I graduate when there are hundreds of people applying? I get okay grades, but I can't stay focused, I can't talk to people, I've never had a 'real' job, and I interview badly. How am I even supposed to get relevant experience? Hell, I'm 24 and still working on a Bachelor's degree, that's how badly I've messed up my education. (not that there aren't people who started late, but they all had actual life/work experience)

And the best part is that I was offered an internship last year, but because I was scared and it wasn't in my field, I turned it down. I applied again this year but didn't get it because there were candidates this time who weren't total fucking disasters.

Not accepted for that intern position. It was given to someone else.

Fuck.

I'm 22, and have never been employed, never even did a summer job.... was that wrong of me? people keep giving me shit over it...

Do they at least explain why they think this was a bad call on your part?

"not getting experience" is the big thing that keeps coming up

I spent my youth either in school, or trying to unwind because of school

It's a weird paradox isn't it — to get a job, you need experience. But you can't get experience without getting a job.

TBH, what really helps more than experience are connections. Do you happen to know anyone who can help open a door for you or at least get you an interview?

One thing I wish I realized back when I was in college was the value of networking.

edited 6th Mar '17 7:25:30 AM by M84

found out I ave a few connections with department stores and the link in London that I wasn't aware of, nothing professional that suits my skills (IT) though

Does it have to be an IT job? Because if this is a money issue and there's a chance you can get a job with your connections...

If nothing else, it's a paycheck to tide you over while you look for IT jobs. And you'll be able to add the "experience" to your resume.

And who knows? While you work there you might be able to make more connections.

edited 6th Mar '17 7:33:22 AM by M84

oh I know my situation perfectly well, I'd be more than happy with stuff that just pays the bills right about now, taking them up on their offers

Good luck!

Good luck, FM Fry!

Still looking, the temp agencies have been coming up dry. My resume still wows people though.

I have an interview today!

Company waited until the last possible minute to tell me I didn't get the job.

anyone got any advice for someone who just got their food handler's card recently and is planning to work on starbucks (since it's the only one i have access to as of right now)?

edited 24th Mar '17 10:08:20 PM by I-Teleported-Bread

Well, it's a customer service job, so be prepared for dealing with assholes on a regular basis.

Since job offers are not getting there, my old man is telling me to work for a NGO and build work experience while I finish my BA on the side. I'm in my early 30s now.

I don't know about this, but doing this seems to be the only way out...

I'm only fortunate to be living with them to solve some expenses.

edited 25th Mar '17 3:43:34 AM by Ominae

ok, so the only entry level jobs i also have access to (besides starbucks) are some restaurants, mainly fast food chains. does anyone have any advice for someone planning to work in foodservice?

See my previous comment.

But seriously, be prepared to put up with far more than the recommended daily dose of jerks.

Restaurants for the most part just seem to bring out peoples' inner jerkass.

And always, always wash your hands when using the restroom.

edited 30th Mar '17 11:23:29 AM by M84

duly noted. though i might need mental preparation because my mind is kind of a mess lol

also i mostly meant advice as in resumes and interviews and all that.

Standard stuff. Fit everything on to one page without cluttering it up (stick with important stuff). Dress well for the interview and get a haircut if necessary. Eat a good breakfast or lunch (depending on time of interview) so you're not distracted.

Most of all, relax. If it's a service industry job, you just need to show your prospective employer that you're not a crazy asshole who will steal from the register or harass customers. Your odds will be better if you also give off the impression that you are efficient. That you are capable of quickly processing and handling orders.

I am assuming this job is in California? If you end up a waiter, that means you'll be relying on tips since the USA's labor laws are pretty archaic especially when it comes to the service industry. You will not be able to make anywhere close to a living wage without tips. Which means you will have to be extra courteous and efficient when dealing with customers.

Edit:

Also, since you are applying for a service industry job — appearances matter. I mean, more so than usual. You are a defacto "face" of the establishment. Customers appreciate a hospitable and friendly server, especially if they have had a hard day and just want a damn cup of coffee. At the interview, you want your prospective employer to think that you could be a server who encourages regular business. I know I appreciate a friendly-looking face whenever I visit a Philz.

edited 31st Mar '17 2:10:43 AM by M84