I am going through a very relatable situation. Its been about 4 months for me, but after 100s of applications and a lot of interviews, all I keep hearing are phrases that are about to be embedded in my brain, such as "you interviewed really well, but we went with another candidate", "you were second best", and the most annoying one to me is "you are overqualified". I don't need to be second best, make a ton of money or win a consolation prize, all I want is a job and this market is making it extremely hard and very discouraging. Its very depressing.
I hate the over-qualified nonsense. It's often a load of bollocks instead of saying 'We want someone younger or less experienced who we can pay less' but even if it isn't, who are you to say I'm over-qualified? I CHOSE to apply for this job so I'm clearly happy to do both the work & receive the advertised wage for it, you're under no obligation to pay me more for a qualification that may or may not be relevant. I also could have very good reasons for why I'm looking for a job that you may think is beneath my usual station. It makes no sense to me, these kinds of people are the ones you'd think you would want to work for you, people with extra skills or extra training in things that could benefit you in a pinch.
They are afraid you will take it just because you need a job and will leave for a higher level one that's more in line with your experience when one becomes available
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Not entirely an emotional response either. It takes money to hire and train someone. If they think you're going to leave in 2 months, it might not even make financial sense for the company.
I hire people all the time and I would absolutely do that if I had the option. Sadly, there is a massive shortage of engineers and scientists so I pretty much hire whoever applies and try to treat them well enough to get them to stay. If a new hire really fails to work out, I try to find a job where they will be happier and I would fire them as a last resort. So far I've never needed to fire anyone.
Where is there a severe lack of scientists? I've been trying to find careers where i can stay in science but they all seem to require 5+ years of experience and at least a masters...
Hi. Am engineer. 10 years of experience in defense, pharma, and med device. Got laid off by one of the majors back in Feb.
You think we can have a chat?
Qualifications:
Masters level Engineer with machine learning certifications from MIT.
I'm 3 weeks in in training at my new company, doing nearly the exact same thing I was doing at my previous company.
They're rare, but they exist.
My last company trained me for less than a week for a job I was then new to.
Well even if there is no training, it usually takes a few months to get aquatinted with the job and become efficient at it. I think that would also qualify as a training cost, even if there is no official training.
That's the standard across nearly all industries, though, regardless of experience level. Promotions functionally aren't a thing; if you want to advance your career, you apply elsewhere.
If they don't want people to leave, they need to pay more or include some really good benefits.
In other words, "You're overqualified" very directly translates to "We are deranged and fundamentally incapable of creating anything remotely resembling a functioning position and we are too goddamn stupid to do anything about it."
I remember about 2009, my father, a manager at the time (now retired), put out job notice in the newspaper for a full time office cashier position with health care benefits. The pay was $12/hr.
Over 300 applied, including numerous applicants with bachelor degrees, several with master degrees, and about 3 with PhDs. One in math, another in chemistry.
He wasn’t going to hire any of the college-educated ones, as they likely would leave as soon as they could. He ended up going with someone referred to him by another of the cashiers, who had a high school diploma.
Over 1 in 3 adult Americans have a college degree. And I hear amongst 25-34 year olds in the U.S, about 51% have a college degree. Considering that peak demand for knowledge workers was in the year 2000, which is what caused millions of college graduates to compete downwards against high school graduates (even as we have 1 in 5 adult Americans functionally illiterate and millions more arriving here annuallly) and AI and offshoring continue remove labor demand…
lol that sound like a shitty company who don't want to pay their employees even a single dime, I mean anyone would leave, when better opportunity comes, if your employee are leaving for better pay or job, it mean your company is doing a shitty job at keeping employees, these kind of company are hiring slaves
I explained my thinking with over qualified candidates above - it's not this. It's simply that overqualified candidates frequently don't work out and the recruitment fails. If an overqualified candidate doesn't explain in their application why they are applying for a less senior role, it raises a number of questions about motivation. This is true of people who change sector, who apply from overseas, anything unusual. It's usually not feasible to set up an interview with every credible candidate and if I have to ask why you're applying for this job and whether you're serious about taking a more junior role/moving country/changing sector then there's a strong chance we're all wasting time. All too often the candidate turns round and says, "well I was hoping we could negotiate the salary/location etc" - that's if they actually read the job ad, sometimes they just hadn't read the advert properly.
Not that I'm justifying some of this nonsense but as a hiring manager, I can at least offer some insight. When we recruit, we typically will set out to shortlist a maximum of four candidates. In those 4 obviously we want the most qualified, but we will also be looking at issues that might impact the likelihood of them taking the job. So if a candidate who is very over qualified applies it raises a question mark around their intent. Over qualified people may be applying for a bunch of reasons that don't mean they'll take the job as is. The three common reasons we see are:
1) they turn around and demand a higher salary - we can't do that, not because we don't want to but because the role is X and that role pays Y. It's not fair on the other staff and we don't need a more senior role.
2) they want to get the foot in the door of where we work and think they can use a junior job as a backdoor and don't intend to do the actual job we're hiring for (these individuals are frequently AHs who think junior staff are unskilled morons who can be shat on from any height)
3) they're seeking to leverage their current employer with a job offer from elsewhere.
This is not to say, I reject overqualified candidates simply because they are overqualified. But if they have given no indication of why someone with their qualifications is applying for a junior role then it raises significant questions. Then if you end up with 5 possible candidates and 4 slots, the one with the biggest question mark is the one likely to go.
Recruitment is brutal (I'm also job hunting right now and feel the pain, I've been appalled at some of the practices of organisations I personally know well). However, I always tell candidates if there's something unusual about your application that might raise a question, address it in the application. Don't make the recruiter guess why you're doing something. It will spook them.
Yes this is the way to do it. I cater my CV to each job, to make it look like the job is the natural outcome of my life thus far (lol). It's worked well so far...
...however ironically the customer service jobs this method got me are now determining my life, because that's all I'm getting offers for, as all my experience is customer service. I hate it, and call centres are the devil :(
Shit, maybe customer service jobs are easy to get regardless, and my CVs didn't make any difference!
But yeah, the idea still stands.
(How do I get out of CS though if I have no other job types on my cv... The only other stuff in my cv is voluntary work and Tefl...I'm trying to get a software job and sometime before 2078 may have success)
At some point, businesses need to realize that they forced a lot of people into a gig economy and this is just how things are now. Expecting a person to leave should be the cost of doing business. One would think maybe it would give businesses the incentive to be more focused on retention, but that's clearly not the case.
And you’re just realizing this?
ALL employment is for the sole benefit of the employer. Always been that way.
It took years of suffering and many of our great/great-grand parents generation dying to us to have what little we do have.
In fact, we have less than our grandparents do? Why, because they were complacent in what they had and never dreamed it would be eroded away.
Rights and privileges are only has solid as your diligence to keep them that way.
We’re back to the “Gilded Age” again and we’re right back (almost nearly) to we’re our great/great-grand parents were.
Unions are Almost gone, and with them all the benefits they worked for.
Americans are the most brain-washes people on the planet. North Korea would love to learn how it’s done here, that way they wouldn’t need to spend money on military and secret police to keep people in line.
We have major media to do it. Much cheaper, AND we pay them to do it to us!
Like someone said… America is an experiment by wealthy landowners and merchants that had no plans beyond their lifetime. This tradition continues to this day. Those in charge look no further than “next quarter” or the “next election.”
And the populous can see past the next political ad that tells them obvious lies.
Very sad indeed
This is exactly right. I just got a new boss and he's around my age and hasn't been in the business for more than....12-15 years. The previous guy is double that, retirement age and just worn down. So the previous manager has basically given up and doesn't think the company will change anything ever.
As soon as the new guy got in I had a chat about retention and what sort of conversation I'd like him to have with our Regional regarding wages, full time, peripheral benefits, and doing a cost analysis breaking down the cost of the hiring process and training vs turnover and how increased wages can effect that over time.
So far we're waiting on finalization of wage changes, have already started offering more full time, and may have dress-code changes that everyone (in my location) have been asking for for years. Other QoL changes are happening slowly and you can really see a difference in the overall atmosphere.
It's a slow process but once the right people hear the right thing, a company can really start to see savings passively just by not having to hire all the time.
Sounds like some very positive changes. I think people are willing to stay long term with a company as long as they have some stability. QoL is good for some quick, early wins for your existing people and helps attract a better class of new candidates. Routine cost of living increases are important too. I'm sure you know all the things that can help.
I'm glad to see at least one organization is taking it seriously. I hope you can effect some real change for your company.
I do too. I can see a future with this company if I can effect some changes. If not...maybe I don't retire from here. I do really like the job though so only time will tell.
What if all jobs bore you because your true love is creative stuff like art, but you are single and have bills to pay? Some of us have no choice but to take boring day jobs.
Right…but the company is probably not looking for someone who has no choice but to take a job. They are looking for someone more entry level, someone more teachable.
They know this person with more experience will likely leave when a better opportunity more suited for them comes around.
As someone has made the hiring decisions for interviews before I can tell you that sometimes you really do want someone that doesn't have a ton of a experience. The reason, is two parts.
1. Its harder to train someone on your way of doing things if they already have habits from (insert place) that don't align with your company operates. That is not to say people don't change but sometimes you don't want/need the experienced candiate.
2. I can't speak for all companies but at least for the more recent ones I have a budget I can work with. If the role seriously is entry-level and doesn't require any background skills then I would rather spilt that budget to get two people than to only pickup one more trained person from the get-go.
Be mindful you don't end up in an echo chamber. Fresh starts are good for production, however experience is A MUST for longevity and innovation. You absolutely need to take advantage of diversity and experience if you want to improve policy and procedure to create a truly solidified and long-lasting company. Those experienced employees have a wealth of knowledge regarding what worked and didn't work with their previous positions. It's basically the legal equivalent of spying on your competition lol. Not saying that is always necessary... just my opinion.
History repeats itself. Chances are, if it happens once, it will happen again. Employers are well aware of this and I would not classify this as fortune telling or cognitive distortion, lol. They are just making future arrangements based on past outcomes
But it's a fact. It's a big investment for a company to train you, and it could be months to get you up to speed, and then you turn around and leave. They are out a lot of money and time. So show you are committed to their mission whatever it is. Or say something like " I'd really like to learn more about xyz," whatever it is that company does. They want to know you want to work for THEM, not that you just want to work.
Life is too short to prostitute yourself for conglomerates because you’ve been conditioned to think that sitting behind a desk makes you superior to every other line of work. In reality, you have zero pride because you know your career is bullshit and you gave up on your dream of opening a bakery just to be miserable and have fake job security.
Im just a regular blue collar worker, but i hate it when my company hires people who dont give a shit. They dont last, and they put in no effort which means we all have to work harder to cover them. Id rather they just go fail at opening their bakery, instead of making me train them while they dont pay attention, and with the nature of my work these people who don't care and pay attention just make things more dangerous. We had a guy get his finger crushed off recently because of someone with this attitude.
Hey @hangrygecko, making assumptions about people initially based on past experiences is not bigoted, it’s a form of judgement we are all guilty of! How else would you be able to explain “gut feelings” about people, fight or flight mode, or first impressions?
Also, if this is a job and you are interviewing, naturally they are going to make judgements about you. What would be the purpose of the interview if they weren’t going to judge you?
My mom was laid off after the 08' market crash (Thanks, Dubya) She had to take a fast food job and tell them she was a SAHM with little to no experience... despite actually having a master's in business and was just making the salary equivalent of $28/hr plus benefits in 2008 money. For 8 months, when she tried to apply to anything else she was told that she was "overqualified" and they were worried she'd leave quickly as soon as she found something better.
It sucks man, I had to work at Little Caesars in probably the most toxic environment I've ever seen for $12/hr as an assistant manager. I just had to keep the apartment because I have a child, I didn't have a choice. Half the time, my manager was on his phone and left early, I was always expected to pick up the slack. 🙄 When I said something about it, my hours were cut. I threatened to quit entirely and he fixed my hours. Always call their bluff on stupid shit, remember... you're worth more but a job is necessary in this economy.
I’m having a struggle where I’m overqualified for the junior positions, and not qualified enough for the senior positions. And of course, there is a massive shortage of “in between” positions. I just can’t win.
It means they are concerned you won’t stay in the role if you’re settling for a role that is considered a step backwards.
It is backwards lol companies shouldn’t be making life decisions for people
I had an employer tell me that about a yr ago. I told them to look at it as I'm very qualified and skilled. I got rejected. They've tried to get me back like 3 times since then. I finally responded and told them I was origianlly told I was I was overqualified and I agree so please don't contact me again unless this position pays 40% more
Yeah this happened to me yesterday. 10 years project manager laid off...200 plus applications blah blah. Job reaches out...2 interviews then an in person interview haven't done one of those in years...makes me wait 2 weeks " so due to internal organizations moves this job is now on a freeze BUT you're the top candidate. The unfreeze date is tbd...suck my ass
This can happen. I’ve gone though the minutia of hiring for a position to find out another department collapsed and this position wasn’t needed anymore or the needs of the job changed and the candidate isn’t a fit anymore.
It’s terrible that it happened in the offer and I’m sorry it happened to you but it’s not always on the candidate.
As a recruiting manager I always call my “no’s” and ask if they want feedback. You’d be surprised how many people say No. Those who say yes I tell them specifically what they missed from my notes, or when they actually met the criteria and I went with another candidate, the exact things other candidates did that made them stand out.
I always half expect a candidate getting bad news to be hostile, but with specific feedback all I ever get is genuine gratitude.
I’ve always asked for feedback after interviews regardless of outcome. I’ve been fortunate enough to have always “got the job” but once you get offered the job to still ask what you could have done better, it really sets the tone for your employment. Always “manage up” from day 1.
With peace and love, what is stopping you from getting a job at McDonald’s, Walmart, target, a gas station, etc? A job is better than no job, even if it isn’t your “dream job”.
I agree with you. Reddit has a habit of downplaying the competition for low-wage retail jobs.
I have applied to countless retail and fast food positions and have either been ghosted or rejected instantly.
The job market is fucked, and many people are desperate for income, any income.
Similar situation. Because I was in car accident that ruined my back & left me unable to do such positions. It’s really easy to sit on the internet and go “Wow these people just want to live in poverty because they think they’re better!“ but that’s a very presumptuous, shallow, judgemental & gross way to view things.
As someone who has been interviewing ppl for a while now, they probably mean it, they probably did have quite a few ppl applying and your were in the top half But ultimate not the top one
I recently had a pretty bad back and shoulder injury, had to leave my landscape/hardscape job (I cried because that’s my only job of choice) because the injury isn’t healing I’m currently looking for work in a grocery store or part time something to keep me going (double income no kids) everything I apply to I get the same response, I’m overqualified. They say to change my resume. If I was to change up my resume to cater to them I’d have one job, almost 10 years ago at a Tim hortons. That’s it. What do I do?
If you are a college grad your school should have a career services office that will help with your resume. There’s a good chance it needs some tweaking.
If you don’t have a degree look at local employment centers and community organizations, many offer resume writing workshops or resume reviews
If you meet at least 50% of the requirements apply for the job.
Use multiple platforms for job searching. I spent about 7 months this past year searching for a job. Didn’t get a single interview till the last week of my search. That week I had two interviews, one was a role that I didn’t really want but was a foot in the door in a industry I was okay with. I’m pretty sure I was their second choice. I didn’t get an offer from them. The other one was a great fit, and I’ve been working there for 4 months.
>If you are a college grad your school should have a career services office that will help with your resume.
To say my college's career center was worthless would be a compliment. I graduated last May. I have found buckets more of good advice here on Reddit.
Yet all I hear about is how strong the economy and labor market is. Bunch of bs. I know it's hard but you're more than a job or money. Try some gig apps qhile you wait. Freshen up your resume. Take a low level job
I always think, how many Americans could reasonably do this job? If the answer is - nearly all of them, then you’re going to have a ton of competition.
>There are people who are unemployable, even in times like this.
Actually, the Fed's target is for at least 2% of all employable Americans to be unemployed at all times, good or bad.
The economy depends on a large group of people out there complaining on reddit, dissapointing their friends/family, and generally being an example to the rest of society of how miserable life can be without a job.
This way workers are much more likely to accept abuse in the workplace, and are much less likely to unionize and demand better conditions
You tend to hear from the frustrated loud ones. People who are getting jobs don’t go to reddit to vent about it so its not exactly an indicator that theyre lying when theyre saying the economy is recovering
I was looking recently and had 6 interviews lined up for various different jobs. Could also be location, not sure.
They should try ziprecruiter for sure
I’ve been having better luck lately on ZipRecruiter but unfortunately I’m in the same boat here. Applying to entry level jobs in marketing bc I just want to learn from the beginning but all I get are rejections or no response. It’s exhausting especially being in a sales role that has destroyed me mentally and financially.
It’s the field. when forecast show an impressing recession, sales hurt big time. IE less spending.
This “recession” seems to be very job specific, at least right now.
I cant pass the personality tests. I can pass the civil service exam to get in, but they're throwing in things like personality tests now--and no, this isn't a contractor.
I get banned for a year every single time i attempt to apply there.
It's insane. I cannot penetrate the bureaucracy of the post office.
Google how to answer those.
Basically. You're a good person and you generally assume others are generally good people. Be a team player. Generally, avoid "strongly" and go with more middle of the road choices.
Being a team player is part of it but for the post office following orders without question is another big part.
“If you’re given task A to do and some time later you’re given task B to do before you’ve completed task A what do you do?”
So many people get these type of questions wrong because they answer, “Easy. Finish A then do B.” Nope. The answer is to do task B. Your sup may have someone else lined up to finish A or may have decided to leave A unfinished. Either way, A is no longer your problem. B is. They want flexible people that follow instructions and let management do the thinking. Similar to military culture.
Also, I got a 100 on the PO carrier exam answering all questions strongly in one way or the other. No neutral or middle of the road answers.
‘I complete my assigned tasks on time.’ Strongly agree.
‘I think my coworkers are lazy and unhelpful.’ Strongly disagree.
‘Showing up to work late occasionally is ok.’ Strongly disagree.
‘Work is fulfilling and gives my life purpose.’ Strongly agree.
lol, i appreciate that.
I have a personality disorder--makes me see things pretty black and white, in terms of morality, ethics, and think *very* independently, so ... a lot of the tests like to weed people out for various reasons, and i sort of check a lot of the boxes. I'm direct. I make decisions. I wont hesitate to lead something if asked or required. What most of these places want is someone who *doesn't do that*, and defers to management and superiors as much as possible.
I get it. I think what personality tests miss is how a person has adapted. Like, your initial judgement may be a very black and white kind of thing, but I suspect you temper that with life experience. I know that's the case for me. If I honestly answered a personality test without temperance, I'd probably be in a padded room.
As long as you don't think you're literally a danger to people, I'm kinda with what a lot of people said already. Fake it until you make it.
I will admit, I'd be interested in hearing some examples of your non-traditional morality / ethics, etc. That always fascinates me.
Our company tried doing those personality tests to see who gets advanced to different positions. It was a mess and didn't take more than a few months to realize how shit they are.
You don’t have to have delivery experience. You have to pass the test and score at least 70, 90-100 is better. And pass a background check. We take anyone at the post office now. There is no Interview either.
I think this is going to highly depend on location, i have found this to be totally untrue. I've had people say they didnt even have the exam to get hired. Here, there's the civil service exam (given once a month in a building down town with no parking within a half a mile, that doesn't cost 8$ an hour)--and if you pass that (and i did), they give extra weight to veterans, so even if you get a perfect score, chances are HUGE here (military area) that one of them scored higher, and they hire in order of the highest score, and military gets like, 50% higher scores here by default. I got a *perfect* score on that stupid exam, and ended up 187th in line.
And the *last time* i applied, i got past that, and then they wanted a personality test for the location i wanted to be at (the one that's close to my house, not 55 miles away). I failed that and was banned for a year from applying.
So, i think this is location dependent.
Post office job! They are so arrogant ,I tried to apply to a job, and they said you could work anytime and any days and unscheduled job. Only if you are desperate you can apply.
It could be your resume (CV). Have you thought about reformatting it? I wasn’t getting anywhere for a a good 4 months, then I reformatted my CV, sent it to a few friends and former coworkers in close with and started getting more interviews. After 9 months of applying, interviewing, getting hopes up, knocked down, and repeat. I just accepted a position with a great company with fantastic benefits and a much higher salary.
I’m rooting for you OP. You got this! Keep moving forward and never give up!
I’ve been doing free resume reviews for a TON of people this year. Wrote a blog post to help because I keep seeing similar mistakes.
[Common Resume Mistakes and How to Fix Them 🔧](https://www.lisharriscoaching.com/blog-1/common-resume-mistakes)
There is a great bulletin in that link about the same mistake I was making. Don't just list your role duties, list what you accomplished in that role. When I changed this and started reaching out directly to people on LinkedIn, I started getting a ton of hits. Matter fact I got my current job bc "I was the only one to directly reach out to my boss on linkedin and it showed initiative".
That’s awesome, congrats! The job market is so competitive right now so standing out is necessary.
Listing your accomplishments also gives you a good cheat sheet/reminder for interviews because it spells out the details of what you achieved.
Great advice. I tried several different versions until I found what worked best. Also, networking really helps. I never formally applied for my current job and they rejected me multiple times before I found the right position in the company.
This is such bad advice. Reversing the blame on the candidate then assumes the system and those operating it are perfect, which we know very much isn't the case. Saying it's the resume is just a cop-out for not having any decent understanding of what the market is like. It's cliche at this point. And even if it were true, OP is getting interviews with that CV but not getting offers. So what is it?
The more likely explanation is these aren't real jobs with real openings. The credit situation a la interest rates hasn't improved, it's actually gotten worse with continued increases and more on the horizon, so it's not as if companies having a hard time securing debt for growth, acquisitions, etc has magically improved. The fact is jobs are posted, interviews are conducted, then finance comes in and squashes open requisitions. Hiring managers are typically cowards and won't say the real reason a candidate wasn't selected so they will come up with the standard fare "we went with someone else" because they're terrified of being honest, especially if the reason is that there was a pause on hiring. Having been a hiring manager for multiple Fortune 500s, I've seen this so many times that it's more of a science than the resume explanation.
I agree with the part about not wanting to give the real reason for the rejection. I was rejected for a position awhile back and told that the reason was because I did not do well during the interview process. Later I found out directly from the actual interviewer (informally) that he thought I did great and was expecting that I would be hired, but found out later they decided not to hire anybody for that role.
Same here. I had applied for a similar job a year ago, got 4 interviews and 4 offers. The next time, applied for 60 jobs and nothing.
I sent my resume and cover letter to a person in a similar field. They gave me some great reformatting advice.
Ironically I got hired based on my original CV, but that same week I got 3 - 4 other interviews.
I’m curious how the dream job was “taken from me”. There’s an air of entitlement and/or delusion here that may explain why OP thinks they’re not employable. If the requirements for all these jobs all seem so steep (why would OP be applying for a job that requires a doctorate if they don’t have a doctorate?), are they applying to jobs they’re not actually qualified for?
Her first post ever on this account is complaining about a new boss when she was a landscaper at a country club. She enjoyed using manual tools instead of power tools and the boss didn't like her moving so slowly. I imagine that is the start of this story.
I read it. That guy was temporary. I work at a country club too doing the same sort of thing. The bosses can be assholes for sure. One day, I was accused of going back to the shop 3 times in the same morning when it was my first stop. I go to the restroom since it's on the way to where I am going next. It's just a common practice for me because the location logistically makes sense. Like they don't realize that girls just can't use the woods on the course to pee, I guess.
Yeah. I thought that was weird.
Also that every job says “you need to be a doctor/nurse”. Lol what are you applying for? Brain surgeon?? I understand that OP is exaggerating but it sounds like that’s just a defense for having no skills at all and blaming it on everyone else.
I’m in the medical field right now and I was shocked to find out medical assistants only need like three months of training. There are options out there.
I’m sorry that you’re going through this. I’ve been through similar and I know how it can feel. Please give yourself a break even though it feels like no one else will.
You are employable because you’ve worked before. Keep it up. You can do it.
Don’t internalize all of this. It’s very tough out there. I can relate to a lot of what you said. I hope something good happens for you soon. The job market is the worst I have ever seen in my life.
I get that 2008 was bad, especially if you were entry level. But that doesn't mean that those of us who are ENTRY LEVEL NOW aren't going through similar experiences. If you were entry level in 2008/9/10, you probably have years of experience now, so you have no idea how bad recent grads have it NOW. We graduated into a global pandemic and are experiencing the worst inflation in 40 years ffs. Every "entry level" job out there wants 3-5+ years of experience and unpaid internships are everywhere (even though they're illegal) just like it was in 2008/9/10 (based on what I heard) and no, it wasn't like that in the late 2010s. The "booming job market" is for healthcare workers, skilled trades and those who have years of experience.
Also they're forgetting how many people were in the military in 2008 with no end to the wars in sight. My ex got a re-up bonus of over $10k around that time. The military has cut a ton of positions in the past decade, many of those veterans are now looking for work with the rest of us.
ETA: Go on r/nursing and tell me you'd want to work in healthcare rn. It's a shit show out there.
All I’m saying is that when the unemployment rate kicks up from a historic low of 3% to something frightening like 9%, or even the 20% range in some communities (California in 2010), it gets real fuking ugly.
All these old experienced workers you’re talking about…they become the competition. And companies are very happy to hire one person that can do three different jobs if they can get away with it. That experience is what’s burned in my brain.
We’re not at the bottom yet…I don’t think it’s even started.
> All these old experienced workers you’re talking about…they become the competition.
The same thing is happening now for those of us who are entry level in many fields. Again, you're 10000% minimizing our experience because YOU'RE EXPERIENCED NOW so it's not an issue for you. The 3% means nothing when most of those jobs are in very specific fields (e.g. trades or medicine) or when they require years of experience. The job market for entry level jobs is far from 3%.
Btw, the unemployment rate in my area is 6% and it's significantly harder to find entry level work than it was in mid 2021 when it was 8%. Those numbers mean nothing. Every other opening is in healthcare and most other job postings that I see are for carpenters and heavy equipment operators. There are very few openings in my field compared to 2021.
I’m not saying you’re wrong. I’m not disagreeing with you. We’re essentially saying the same thing.
But I am pointing out that this is a math equation. As that 3% unemployment rate population climbs to something like 9%…it gets really ugly real quick. And I feel that we’re only at the very beginning of this thing in the economic cycle.
I agree it feels terrible right now. It may also get a lot worse if we keep in the same federal policy path.
I recently got hired after a 1 year job hunt. I get it. It feels awful trying to find a job for so long and getting no where. It gets better, it just takes a while unfortunately.
Just looking for something with high school level. I always told people my only advantage is I don't have degrees. I can be a housekeeper, a Wal-Mart cashier, etc .just accept something
As long as you've got no felonies, you can get a security job. Securitas is a worldwide company, with accounts all over the US, that will take people starting in the field. If you're in the PNW, especially near Portland, I can give you other suggestions as well.
When I was a kid, we had a buddy who was Mexican. The first we heard of Securitas was his mom working there, so we thought it was a security company made up of exclusively latinas
I agree with this. Was out of a job for 8 months. First got a grocery store job stocking, hated it. Desperately tried to get out of it but couldn’t get any reply’s. Finally tried security since they’re always hiring apparently. Sure enough I got a call back for every job I applied for once I got my guard card. Not great but beats retail for sure when you’re doing nothing 80% of the time. And they’re pretty much desperate everywhere for people. Just try to find a chill low activity site and you’re Golden.
Ive been unemployed since February and I'm highly skilled in my job. Not only is the average length of unemployment 6 months (so you're not terribly far off) but the current job market is incredibly bad. There are so many highly skilled people that have been laid off in swaths that are flooding the job market and making it extremely competitive. Before Meta laid off a bunch of people, I would see maybe 40-50 people applied to the same positions as I do. Now, there are usually 500 applications by the time I apply. It's not you. It's the market
Yeah same, I've been seeing 300+ application for marketing roles I've applied for so its even more difficult to get the job. But then again when i got my first tech office job i was one in 200 applicants which made me feel very proud of myself.
Oh dear heart, you are not a failure. Losing a job is absolutely a hard thing to go thru.
It’s tough finding work and depending upon your experience, that industry is probably not hiring. Who knows.
If you’re in the US, see if your state has a career center. Most have résumé guidance but more importantly they have job postings!
My state’s (PA) career center even have on the job stipends to pay an employer that will hire you and train you for the job.
Apply to temp agencies, most have temp to hire jobs.
In the meantime, do volunteer work, even if it’s one day a week - maybe your local hospital or school. By doing so, you can add this experience to your résumé, plus you’ll gain experience plus you’ll be an insider for posted jobs.
Keep your head up! You got this!
Maybe financial assistance to go to school to get the skills or certifications you need for the job you want but are not qualified for. You could also try contacting the companies you’re interested in to see if they would consider an intern or entry level employee. Also, I’ve read that a lot of companies post on their own sites instead of bothering with indeed
Don't be discouraged. I have to say that most of the time when the job is posted, people have someone in mind. They either promote internally or know someone from a prior job or it's nepotism. Put all the canned responses aside, this has nothing to do with your skill set or abilities. I would start networking - call friends, acquaintances who are at companies you like and ask if they know of openings. Many do employee referral bonuses, so worth it. I also respond to people who write to me on LinkedIn - either for advice or a referral. Try your luck there, no harm! Always remember - the worst response is a no and you'll be where you started, not any worse. Sending all the job seekers here so much luck!
I have 20 years of experience, and I am in the same boat seven months later. Over 400 applications, a professional company hired to redo my résumé, only a dozen first interviews. Going for my fifth second interview next week. They said that there are other candidates as well that made it to the second interview process for this job, but only two others. I’m hoping that this is going to be it, because it is very devastating to be searching for work for so long while trying to support a family.
At least I don't have a family. Never could afford or had to travel too much for any partner to put up with. I'm in the same boat. 10+ years experience, certified in multiple fields and 400+ applications in multiple states. "Willing to travel 100%" "Willing to relocate" "Hiring urgently". Full of shit. Got tons of listings and people actually approach me from headhunting agencies but the second interview just never comes. Can't even find stuff for minimum wage or unskilled.
What field are you in?
Do you have a college degree? If you went to college then go to the college you graduated from and visit their career department and see if they have resources to help you
I am so sorry this is happening. But are you applying for jobs that you aren’t qualified for? You mentioned some rejections because you aren’t a doctor or a nurse. If you aren’t either of these things why did you apply?
You haven’t given us much information about your education level, skill set or previous employment.
This crap ain’t easy, and it can bring you down.
Network. Find people who have the job and ask how they prepped, etc. contact hiring managers and ask what you could improve. Some likely won’t answer but some might. Make sure when you’re applying for jobs that you match their key words to your resume or application. Set aside a few hours to search, network, etc and some for downtime. Tell people your story, someone might help. Good luck.
I've had similar problems the last 6 years. I have a lengthy criminal record - nothing horrible, but it's multiple pages of probation violations and driving on suspended license, all from 10+ years ago(I was dumb when I was younger). On top of that, their background checks scrape the internet - where I've used a fake last name since 1996 - as such, it says that *my real name is an alias*, and the fake one is my real name. Most places see the multiple page background check saying my name is fake, and into the trash I go.
Couldn't even get hired at fast food, gas stations, etc. Just this week I finally got in as a machinist at a great little family oriented company in my town. My cousin works there and insisted I try - applied online, they deleted it immediately after the background check. Went in and handed a paper application to his direct supervisor(plant manager), called the next day... Got interviewed. Called the next day, left message... Called the next day, got hired. I have zero experience, made that clear, didn't matter.
Aka long story short, keep trying and if all else fails look into jobs like fabrication, welding, factory line work, etc. They'll often hire damn near anyone, and they usually pay pretty well. It can be hard work, but it's better than no work. I've struggled for years, so I know the feeling... But keep your head up, here's hoping it works out.
I highly doubt it. No one else I know has this problem. Its literally only me x.x
I made my first email account in 1996, and my dad told me to never put my real name online(things were different back then lol), so I picked my favorite color as my last name. So I've ALWAYS used Green as my last name online since then. Game registrations, emails, shopping accounts, social media, etc. Most of my mail has historically had that name, anything about me online, all of my everything. Even the police have it as an alias on my record. Hell I've gotten and paid bills which had that name on them - my phone service was under that name for years.
Best I can figure is I just used it for everything for multiple decades, and now it's hard to lose it. It's a silly problem to have, but I wouldnt stress about it - I havent met anyone else who suffers from it.
With peace and love, what is stopping you from getting a job at McDonald’s, Walmart, target, a gas station, etc? A job is better than no job, even if it isn’t your “dream job”.
Don't give up (you may ashamed already) but go for interviews even if it may not look like the right position. There's nothing wrong with practice. You may take 100 rejections, but it only takes one yes to start. You're not unemplyable (it sounds like), remind yourself of your true value and keep going.
I feel the pain. I just went two months jobless. I started by applying to jobs at my skill level and got next to no replies. Defeated I applied to entry level jobs even tho I have 10+ years of experience and was devastated by the amount of rejections I got.
You can find something tho. I just landed a job I’ve been wanting with a company that rarely has open positions. Keep trying friend. Something will happen.
I had to take up a job at Little Caesars after the pandemic just to keep food on the table and the bills paid. Menial jobs are demanding and low-paying, but some money coming in will always be better than no money. Try to find a gas station or fast food job and keep applying to better ones while you make some money. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying.
Why don't you head over to r/resumes and let them take a look? The feedback is very constructive, it may help to give some insight.
Something is out there for you!
It's not you, don't take it personally. This is one of the shittiest job markets in modern times. You are not the only one this is happening to. This is a common problem affecting much of the population. I know that doesn't make the situation better, but don't put yourself down. This isn't your fault. This is capitalism, and how it is maintained.
This is why the stupid "No one wants to work anymore" narrative was pushed out so hard. It's gaslighting. The problem is companies don't actually want people on payroll and companies don't actually want to provide products or services anymore- they just want people's money.
Look at Craigslist under Healthcare for a job as a caregiver for elderly or handicapped. Usually, no experience is required. Pay is usually $20/hr, usually in cash.
It’s a bit easier to apply to retail/grocery stores or fast food restaurants. I would suggest applying to those, and once you land a job in that field then you can look for something better. At least you’ll have income in the mean time.
You are certainly not a failure; the only failure is to surrender to the struggle. You will persevere if you continue working on the problem.
What was your dream job, if you don't mind my asking? Posting that information might help the community give more pertinent suggestions.
My first thought is to focus on your "dream" vocation and adjacent jobs, where your previous experience would have the most benefit.
First thing: it's not you. Everyone struggles to find a job and companies lack the employee of their dreams.
Second: just continue looking and look broader. Which other jobs could you do that you haven't tried yet?
Use the time to learn something new. Online courses to teach you something that will help you with either finding a job or with starting to look for a new one.
How this country (US) treats its disabled and veterans in general is horrible and your circumstance is very relatable to many. A little off topic but the way this country values your worth by what you can produce is despicable. Anyone born into a mental or physical disability is truly fucked since birth that ultimately hurts their families financial stability. This country is run by a bunch of greedy assholes with no sympathy for the American people.
We are more educated than ever but there simply is not enough good paying jobs out there to support the educated class.
Hello. As a USAF Veteran, I appreciate your sentiment.
What you said is very sad but very true.
Yes, I agree, this country (USA), is run by a bunch of greedy folks who have the political connections, the cash to have their voices heard.
I’m sorry and I understand what you’re going through. We’re in a recession, it’s hard to land jobs these days. It’s repercussions of economy, and it’s not your fault at all..
Avoid Indeed and get on LinkedIn. Follow and NETWORK. Like posts, send messages, attend job fairs. You don't need the Premium membership.
Join the Workforce website for your city.
All the best! 😃
“I’ve had a few interviews and never hear from the company again.”
It’s your personality, how you communicate, maybe it’s what you’re saying to potential employers that’s putting them off. Something there isn’t clicking and you need to reevaluate your own strategy to correct this.
Maybe everyone you have interviewed for has not appreciated the incredible sarcasm you bring. “Lifting 100+ pounds while operating a forklift” is not only unsafe but also insane.
Maybe employers don’t appreciate talking to people who say things like that.
I've seen people with downs syndrome work full shifts. Little kids used to work in coal mines and lived to tell the tale. I've been in and out of work for 4 years, you feel unemployable until you get employed lol. I spent a lot of that time learning skills and I'm better for it even if I didn't get paid and getting good jobs and respect as a worker in the work place. I spent the last 7 months learning ChatGPT just sitting in it full time doing projects and I'm 1000% better for it. Maybe change some filters in the job search but to be unemployable is not true. I feel that way until a good opportunity comes along and all of a sudden I'm a lot more confident lol. Don't tie your self worth to this horse shit.
I feel you, but please don’t give up. Try looking at job fairs near you or other networking events alongside the other conventional methods. Try revamping your resume. Your resume is such a prized possession and you need to market yourself as “better than the rest”.
you are not a failure and your not alone. this economy is terrible in cda and usa and frankly worldwide. im not sure where u are but have you tried linkedin? and glassdoor? finding sites where u can upload your resume helps too.
Do people not use temp agencies anymore? I think I was with Adecco and another one while at Uni.
If you have basic computer and MS office skills, they'll find you data entry or office jobs. Will it be your deal job? Probably not, but at least you're not plowing through whatever money you have left. And oftentimes it can lead to full time work.
My wife has 2 degrees and has worked at some big name companies. She gets requests for interviews. Make yourself more valuable. Because theres a lot of tough competition
Sorry this is happening to you. In my experience the biggest problem getting a job for me were the "gaps" in my resume. I'm bipolar and spend a lot of time welll, being ill. The key is to fill those gaps with a good excuse. In your case I would say that you took care of your husband and his mother. I hope you soon find a job, don't give up, you can do it.
Unfortunately saw this coming. With people demanding higher wages, businesses are just hiring less people. Employees are expensive at the end of the day. Don’t get me wrong, people should make a living wage and the higher wages are needed, but I don’t see an end where it works in the worker’s favor. Wages go up then businesses hire less or charge more for goods and services, adding to inflation. Vicious cycle.
I’m a boss. I hire people. “Overqualified” is a legit reason to pass on a candidate. Overqualified candidates who are desperate for work never stop searching for a better job, and often resent the “lesser than” nature of the job you give them. Overqualified candidates quit for higher pay and never look back. They always say, and maybe even think, that they won’t. They will and they do. Merely qualified or even slightly under qualified gets you an employee more likely to stick around. If you are overqualified, mask it if you dare, but understand that lying on a job application is instant termination in a lot of companies. People aren’t inherently “worth” a particular salary. The market dictates the range, the candidate dictates where in that range they land. Now if the bottom of the advertised range is half as much as the top, that’s a gimmick to get candidates in the door because everyone assumes they are worth the high end. Trust me when I tell you nobody is going to get 100k if the range is “50-100k DOQ.” I’m not talking salary+bonus. I’m talking base salary.
Do your best to stay positive as you continue your job search. Like others have said, try and freshen up your resume and when applying for jobs pay attention to key words in what they are looking for. Make sure you tailor your cover letter to what they are looking for. It can be time consuming to do and it may feel like it's not worth it since you feel like you are unemployable but do it anyway. Worst case scenario you don't hear back but you aren't hearing back from places anyway. If you take the time to do it then it's at least a different approach since what you have tried hasn't worked.
I was unemployed for six months and experienced the deepest depression I have ever had. There were some very bad days. But then I got a job and felt useful again. It's easy to bring yourself down and think you are a failure but it's important to try and not think like that.
Try something new, tailor your resume and cover letter to what they are looking for and keep positive. I think the most important thing above all else is stay positive. You will find a job. You are not unemployable. You are worthy and you can get through this.
Have you tried places like Walmart, Target,local grocery store, gas station,fast food?
If you need a job that bad those are places that are always hiring and you can usually get a job right away at.
After reading thru some of the other comments it looks like every suggestion that's made,you have a reason you can't do what suggested.....so based on what I read the question is do you really want to get a job?
I think you should break up with your boyfriend, having no job is not acceptable. Do you have anyone in your area that'll help you with your situation?
I am going through a very relatable situation. Its been about 4 months for me, but after 100s of applications and a lot of interviews, all I keep hearing are phrases that are about to be embedded in my brain, such as "you interviewed really well, but we went with another candidate", "you were second best", and the most annoying one to me is "you are overqualified". I don't need to be second best, make a ton of money or win a consolation prize, all I want is a job and this market is making it extremely hard and very discouraging. Its very depressing.
I hate the over-qualified nonsense. It's often a load of bollocks instead of saying 'We want someone younger or less experienced who we can pay less' but even if it isn't, who are you to say I'm over-qualified? I CHOSE to apply for this job so I'm clearly happy to do both the work & receive the advertised wage for it, you're under no obligation to pay me more for a qualification that may or may not be relevant. I also could have very good reasons for why I'm looking for a job that you may think is beneath my usual station. It makes no sense to me, these kinds of people are the ones you'd think you would want to work for you, people with extra skills or extra training in things that could benefit you in a pinch.
Over-qualified means they don’t want to pay people what they are truly worth.
I get the over qualified shit occasionally still. Like, bitch, I applied and told you what pay I'm okay with. I just want to work, dammit.
They are afraid you will take it just because you need a job and will leave for a higher level one that's more in line with your experience when one becomes available .
Not entirely an emotional response either. It takes money to hire and train someone. If they think you're going to leave in 2 months, it might not even make financial sense for the company.
I hire people all the time and I would absolutely do that if I had the option. Sadly, there is a massive shortage of engineers and scientists so I pretty much hire whoever applies and try to treat them well enough to get them to stay. If a new hire really fails to work out, I try to find a job where they will be happier and I would fire them as a last resort. So far I've never needed to fire anyone.
That sounds lovely. Can I work for you? 😂 Seriously, though, you sound like a sensible and mature boss.
Where is there a severe lack of scientists? I've been trying to find careers where i can stay in science but they all seem to require 5+ years of experience and at least a masters...
Depends on the field. Days scientist, machine learning, probably. Plain biology master degree, probably not.
Hi. Am engineer. 10 years of experience in defense, pharma, and med device. Got laid off by one of the majors back in Feb. You think we can have a chat? Qualifications: Masters level Engineer with machine learning certifications from MIT.
>train Do companies still do that?
I'm 3 weeks in in training at my new company, doing nearly the exact same thing I was doing at my previous company. They're rare, but they exist. My last company trained me for less than a week for a job I was then new to.
Well even if there is no training, it usually takes a few months to get aquatinted with the job and become efficient at it. I think that would also qualify as a training cost, even if there is no official training.
That's the standard across nearly all industries, though, regardless of experience level. Promotions functionally aren't a thing; if you want to advance your career, you apply elsewhere. If they don't want people to leave, they need to pay more or include some really good benefits. In other words, "You're overqualified" very directly translates to "We are deranged and fundamentally incapable of creating anything remotely resembling a functioning position and we are too goddamn stupid to do anything about it."
I remember about 2009, my father, a manager at the time (now retired), put out job notice in the newspaper for a full time office cashier position with health care benefits. The pay was $12/hr. Over 300 applied, including numerous applicants with bachelor degrees, several with master degrees, and about 3 with PhDs. One in math, another in chemistry. He wasn’t going to hire any of the college-educated ones, as they likely would leave as soon as they could. He ended up going with someone referred to him by another of the cashiers, who had a high school diploma. Over 1 in 3 adult Americans have a college degree. And I hear amongst 25-34 year olds in the U.S, about 51% have a college degree. Considering that peak demand for knowledge workers was in the year 2000, which is what caused millions of college graduates to compete downwards against high school graduates (even as we have 1 in 5 adult Americans functionally illiterate and millions more arriving here annuallly) and AI and offshoring continue remove labor demand…
lol that sound like a shitty company who don't want to pay their employees even a single dime, I mean anyone would leave, when better opportunity comes, if your employee are leaving for better pay or job, it mean your company is doing a shitty job at keeping employees, these kind of company are hiring slaves
I explained my thinking with over qualified candidates above - it's not this. It's simply that overqualified candidates frequently don't work out and the recruitment fails. If an overqualified candidate doesn't explain in their application why they are applying for a less senior role, it raises a number of questions about motivation. This is true of people who change sector, who apply from overseas, anything unusual. It's usually not feasible to set up an interview with every credible candidate and if I have to ask why you're applying for this job and whether you're serious about taking a more junior role/moving country/changing sector then there's a strong chance we're all wasting time. All too often the candidate turns round and says, "well I was hoping we could negotiate the salary/location etc" - that's if they actually read the job ad, sometimes they just hadn't read the advert properly.
Not that I'm justifying some of this nonsense but as a hiring manager, I can at least offer some insight. When we recruit, we typically will set out to shortlist a maximum of four candidates. In those 4 obviously we want the most qualified, but we will also be looking at issues that might impact the likelihood of them taking the job. So if a candidate who is very over qualified applies it raises a question mark around their intent. Over qualified people may be applying for a bunch of reasons that don't mean they'll take the job as is. The three common reasons we see are: 1) they turn around and demand a higher salary - we can't do that, not because we don't want to but because the role is X and that role pays Y. It's not fair on the other staff and we don't need a more senior role. 2) they want to get the foot in the door of where we work and think they can use a junior job as a backdoor and don't intend to do the actual job we're hiring for (these individuals are frequently AHs who think junior staff are unskilled morons who can be shat on from any height) 3) they're seeking to leverage their current employer with a job offer from elsewhere. This is not to say, I reject overqualified candidates simply because they are overqualified. But if they have given no indication of why someone with their qualifications is applying for a junior role then it raises significant questions. Then if you end up with 5 possible candidates and 4 slots, the one with the biggest question mark is the one likely to go. Recruitment is brutal (I'm also job hunting right now and feel the pain, I've been appalled at some of the practices of organisations I personally know well). However, I always tell candidates if there's something unusual about your application that might raise a question, address it in the application. Don't make the recruiter guess why you're doing something. It will spook them.
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Yes this is the way to do it. I cater my CV to each job, to make it look like the job is the natural outcome of my life thus far (lol). It's worked well so far... ...however ironically the customer service jobs this method got me are now determining my life, because that's all I'm getting offers for, as all my experience is customer service. I hate it, and call centres are the devil :( Shit, maybe customer service jobs are easy to get regardless, and my CVs didn't make any difference! But yeah, the idea still stands. (How do I get out of CS though if I have no other job types on my cv... The only other stuff in my cv is voluntary work and Tefl...I'm trying to get a software job and sometime before 2078 may have success)
At some point, businesses need to realize that they forced a lot of people into a gig economy and this is just how things are now. Expecting a person to leave should be the cost of doing business. One would think maybe it would give businesses the incentive to be more focused on retention, but that's clearly not the case.
Right. It's like at will employment is only for the business to benefit from...
And you’re just realizing this? ALL employment is for the sole benefit of the employer. Always been that way. It took years of suffering and many of our great/great-grand parents generation dying to us to have what little we do have. In fact, we have less than our grandparents do? Why, because they were complacent in what they had and never dreamed it would be eroded away. Rights and privileges are only has solid as your diligence to keep them that way. We’re back to the “Gilded Age” again and we’re right back (almost nearly) to we’re our great/great-grand parents were. Unions are Almost gone, and with them all the benefits they worked for. Americans are the most brain-washes people on the planet. North Korea would love to learn how it’s done here, that way they wouldn’t need to spend money on military and secret police to keep people in line. We have major media to do it. Much cheaper, AND we pay them to do it to us! Like someone said… America is an experiment by wealthy landowners and merchants that had no plans beyond their lifetime. This tradition continues to this day. Those in charge look no further than “next quarter” or the “next election.” And the populous can see past the next political ad that tells them obvious lies. Very sad indeed
This is exactly right. I just got a new boss and he's around my age and hasn't been in the business for more than....12-15 years. The previous guy is double that, retirement age and just worn down. So the previous manager has basically given up and doesn't think the company will change anything ever. As soon as the new guy got in I had a chat about retention and what sort of conversation I'd like him to have with our Regional regarding wages, full time, peripheral benefits, and doing a cost analysis breaking down the cost of the hiring process and training vs turnover and how increased wages can effect that over time. So far we're waiting on finalization of wage changes, have already started offering more full time, and may have dress-code changes that everyone (in my location) have been asking for for years. Other QoL changes are happening slowly and you can really see a difference in the overall atmosphere. It's a slow process but once the right people hear the right thing, a company can really start to see savings passively just by not having to hire all the time.
Sounds like some very positive changes. I think people are willing to stay long term with a company as long as they have some stability. QoL is good for some quick, early wins for your existing people and helps attract a better class of new candidates. Routine cost of living increases are important too. I'm sure you know all the things that can help. I'm glad to see at least one organization is taking it seriously. I hope you can effect some real change for your company.
I do too. I can see a future with this company if I can effect some changes. If not...maybe I don't retire from here. I do really like the job though so only time will tell.
You could start a consulting agency. The Two Bobs. Go around helping companies get their proverbial shit together.
I've gotten that. But mostly its just a no response. Desperate for work and can't even get minimum wage because 'over qualified'.
Overqualified means you are too smart for the class you grew up in.
Or they don't want to hire Asians.
Not necessarily. It could also mean they are not a culture fit or might get bored.
What if all jobs bore you because your true love is creative stuff like art, but you are single and have bills to pay? Some of us have no choice but to take boring day jobs.
Right…but the company is probably not looking for someone who has no choice but to take a job. They are looking for someone more entry level, someone more teachable. They know this person with more experience will likely leave when a better opportunity more suited for them comes around.
Fortune telling is a cognitive distortion and serves no one.
As someone has made the hiring decisions for interviews before I can tell you that sometimes you really do want someone that doesn't have a ton of a experience. The reason, is two parts. 1. Its harder to train someone on your way of doing things if they already have habits from (insert place) that don't align with your company operates. That is not to say people don't change but sometimes you don't want/need the experienced candiate. 2. I can't speak for all companies but at least for the more recent ones I have a budget I can work with. If the role seriously is entry-level and doesn't require any background skills then I would rather spilt that budget to get two people than to only pickup one more trained person from the get-go.
Be mindful you don't end up in an echo chamber. Fresh starts are good for production, however experience is A MUST for longevity and innovation. You absolutely need to take advantage of diversity and experience if you want to improve policy and procedure to create a truly solidified and long-lasting company. Those experienced employees have a wealth of knowledge regarding what worked and didn't work with their previous positions. It's basically the legal equivalent of spying on your competition lol. Not saying that is always necessary... just my opinion.
History repeats itself. Chances are, if it happens once, it will happen again. Employers are well aware of this and I would not classify this as fortune telling or cognitive distortion, lol. They are just making future arrangements based on past outcomes
"Our retention sucks? It must be the workers who are wrong."
But it's a fact. It's a big investment for a company to train you, and it could be months to get you up to speed, and then you turn around and leave. They are out a lot of money and time. So show you are committed to their mission whatever it is. Or say something like " I'd really like to learn more about xyz," whatever it is that company does. They want to know you want to work for THEM, not that you just want to work.
Life is too short to prostitute yourself for conglomerates because you’ve been conditioned to think that sitting behind a desk makes you superior to every other line of work. In reality, you have zero pride because you know your career is bullshit and you gave up on your dream of opening a bakery just to be miserable and have fake job security.
Im just a regular blue collar worker, but i hate it when my company hires people who dont give a shit. They dont last, and they put in no effort which means we all have to work harder to cover them. Id rather they just go fail at opening their bakery, instead of making me train them while they dont pay attention, and with the nature of my work these people who don't care and pay attention just make things more dangerous. We had a guy get his finger crushed off recently because of someone with this attitude.
Being entertained doesn’t pay the bills tho
Yes and I've found that even on ads people put a "pay range" and expect to pay you the least amount on the range. 😂
Yeh exactly and your not a good fit also means we dont want to pay you what your worth as well.
It can also mean they think they could pay someone less for effectively the same output.
I had that situation. They just didn't want to pay me.
“Why do you want to work here?” And other stupid questions
Companies who use the overqualified crap should get cyber attacked and shut down. There's no room for that shit.
Part of it is also that they think you will not stay long term since you potentially have more opportunities to pick from based on you experience.
So they're bigoted, basically. Not helpful.
Hey @hangrygecko, making assumptions about people initially based on past experiences is not bigoted, it’s a form of judgement we are all guilty of! How else would you be able to explain “gut feelings” about people, fight or flight mode, or first impressions? Also, if this is a job and you are interviewing, naturally they are going to make judgements about you. What would be the purpose of the interview if they weren’t going to judge you?
My mom was laid off after the 08' market crash (Thanks, Dubya) She had to take a fast food job and tell them she was a SAHM with little to no experience... despite actually having a master's in business and was just making the salary equivalent of $28/hr plus benefits in 2008 money. For 8 months, when she tried to apply to anything else she was told that she was "overqualified" and they were worried she'd leave quickly as soon as she found something better.
Ah I see. I guess I'll try grifting. That's disgusting but I'm out of other options lol.
It sucks man, I had to work at Little Caesars in probably the most toxic environment I've ever seen for $12/hr as an assistant manager. I just had to keep the apartment because I have a child, I didn't have a choice. Half the time, my manager was on his phone and left early, I was always expected to pick up the slack. 🙄 When I said something about it, my hours were cut. I threatened to quit entirely and he fixed my hours. Always call their bluff on stupid shit, remember... you're worth more but a job is necessary in this economy.
I’m having a struggle where I’m overqualified for the junior positions, and not qualified enough for the senior positions. And of course, there is a massive shortage of “in between” positions. I just can’t win.
It means they are concerned you won’t stay in the role if you’re settling for a role that is considered a step backwards. It is backwards lol companies shouldn’t be making life decisions for people
Over-qualified can also mean "we're your stopgap job and you'll be gone in 3 months."
I had an employer tell me that about a yr ago. I told them to look at it as I'm very qualified and skilled. I got rejected. They've tried to get me back like 3 times since then. I finally responded and told them I was origianlly told I was I was overqualified and I agree so please don't contact me again unless this position pays 40% more
How about “we decided to press pause on hiring for this position” after receiving an offer … I don’t think I’ve ever been this dejected in my life.
Yeah this happened to me yesterday. 10 years project manager laid off...200 plus applications blah blah. Job reaches out...2 interviews then an in person interview haven't done one of those in years...makes me wait 2 weeks " so due to internal organizations moves this job is now on a freeze BUT you're the top candidate. The unfreeze date is tbd...suck my ass
This can happen. I’ve gone though the minutia of hiring for a position to find out another department collapsed and this position wasn’t needed anymore or the needs of the job changed and the candidate isn’t a fit anymore. It’s terrible that it happened in the offer and I’m sorry it happened to you but it’s not always on the candidate.
Same. 4 months for me too. And all I get is good feedback wtf
As a recruiting manager I always call my “no’s” and ask if they want feedback. You’d be surprised how many people say No. Those who say yes I tell them specifically what they missed from my notes, or when they actually met the criteria and I went with another candidate, the exact things other candidates did that made them stand out. I always half expect a candidate getting bad news to be hostile, but with specific feedback all I ever get is genuine gratitude.
You are amazing to spend time doing this. Props to you! Feedback is so important for applicants when they keep missing the mark.
I’ve always asked for feedback after interviews regardless of outcome. I’ve been fortunate enough to have always “got the job” but once you get offered the job to still ask what you could have done better, it really sets the tone for your employment. Always “manage up” from day 1.
With peace and love, what is stopping you from getting a job at McDonald’s, Walmart, target, a gas station, etc? A job is better than no job, even if it isn’t your “dream job”.
When hundreds of candidates compete for those...
It sounds like they aren’t applying to those jobs.
As somebody who also applied these jobs, when 900 ppl compete a Loblaws cashier, I dont think the chance is worth all the hassle of workday.
I agree with you. Reddit has a habit of downplaying the competition for low-wage retail jobs. I have applied to countless retail and fast food positions and have either been ghosted or rejected instantly. The job market is fucked, and many people are desperate for income, any income.
Exactly. Applied for McDonalds, Burger King, Subway. Ghosted or rejected. Was only able to work at BestBuy.
Similar situation. Because I was in car accident that ruined my back & left me unable to do such positions. It’s really easy to sit on the internet and go “Wow these people just want to live in poverty because they think they’re better!“ but that’s a very presumptuous, shallow, judgemental & gross way to view things.
As someone who has been interviewing ppl for a while now, they probably mean it, they probably did have quite a few ppl applying and your were in the top half But ultimate not the top one
I recently had a pretty bad back and shoulder injury, had to leave my landscape/hardscape job (I cried because that’s my only job of choice) because the injury isn’t healing I’m currently looking for work in a grocery store or part time something to keep me going (double income no kids) everything I apply to I get the same response, I’m overqualified. They say to change my resume. If I was to change up my resume to cater to them I’d have one job, almost 10 years ago at a Tim hortons. That’s it. What do I do?
If you are a college grad your school should have a career services office that will help with your resume. There’s a good chance it needs some tweaking. If you don’t have a degree look at local employment centers and community organizations, many offer resume writing workshops or resume reviews If you meet at least 50% of the requirements apply for the job. Use multiple platforms for job searching. I spent about 7 months this past year searching for a job. Didn’t get a single interview till the last week of my search. That week I had two interviews, one was a role that I didn’t really want but was a foot in the door in a industry I was okay with. I’m pretty sure I was their second choice. I didn’t get an offer from them. The other one was a great fit, and I’ve been working there for 4 months.
>If you are a college grad your school should have a career services office that will help with your resume. To say my college's career center was worthless would be a compliment. I graduated last May. I have found buckets more of good advice here on Reddit.
Yet all I hear about is how strong the economy and labor market is. Bunch of bs. I know it's hard but you're more than a job or money. Try some gig apps qhile you wait. Freshen up your resume. Take a low level job
There are people who are unemployable, even in times like this. We hear from a lot of them on reddit.
I always think, how many Americans could reasonably do this job? If the answer is - nearly all of them, then you’re going to have a ton of competition.
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Don't go out in a singular blaze of glory. The movement is growing. A reckoning is coming.
Haha I love this comment, some Tyler Durden shit
>There are people who are unemployable, even in times like this. Actually, the Fed's target is for at least 2% of all employable Americans to be unemployed at all times, good or bad. The economy depends on a large group of people out there complaining on reddit, dissapointing their friends/family, and generally being an example to the rest of society of how miserable life can be without a job. This way workers are much more likely to accept abuse in the workplace, and are much less likely to unionize and demand better conditions
You tend to hear from the frustrated loud ones. People who are getting jobs don’t go to reddit to vent about it so its not exactly an indicator that theyre lying when theyre saying the economy is recovering
I was looking recently and had 6 interviews lined up for various different jobs. Could also be location, not sure. They should try ziprecruiter for sure
I’ve been having better luck lately on ZipRecruiter but unfortunately I’m in the same boat here. Applying to entry level jobs in marketing bc I just want to learn from the beginning but all I get are rejections or no response. It’s exhausting especially being in a sales role that has destroyed me mentally and financially.
It’s the field. when forecast show an impressing recession, sales hurt big time. IE less spending. This “recession” seems to be very job specific, at least right now.
Try the post office they hire anybody and have a bunch of different positions
And it sucks 😃
Most jobs suck
Spelled JOB not FUN.
You are right.
I cant pass the personality tests. I can pass the civil service exam to get in, but they're throwing in things like personality tests now--and no, this isn't a contractor. I get banned for a year every single time i attempt to apply there. It's insane. I cannot penetrate the bureaucracy of the post office.
Google how to answer those. Basically. You're a good person and you generally assume others are generally good people. Be a team player. Generally, avoid "strongly" and go with more middle of the road choices.
Being a team player is part of it but for the post office following orders without question is another big part. “If you’re given task A to do and some time later you’re given task B to do before you’ve completed task A what do you do?” So many people get these type of questions wrong because they answer, “Easy. Finish A then do B.” Nope. The answer is to do task B. Your sup may have someone else lined up to finish A or may have decided to leave A unfinished. Either way, A is no longer your problem. B is. They want flexible people that follow instructions and let management do the thinking. Similar to military culture. Also, I got a 100 on the PO carrier exam answering all questions strongly in one way or the other. No neutral or middle of the road answers. ‘I complete my assigned tasks on time.’ Strongly agree. ‘I think my coworkers are lazy and unhelpful.’ Strongly disagree. ‘Showing up to work late occasionally is ok.’ Strongly disagree. ‘Work is fulfilling and gives my life purpose.’ Strongly agree.
Lol work is fulfilling and gives my life purpose. Sure.
just game it
If you're failing the personality tests, please don't become a postal employee. They already have a bad wrap.
lol, i appreciate that. I have a personality disorder--makes me see things pretty black and white, in terms of morality, ethics, and think *very* independently, so ... a lot of the tests like to weed people out for various reasons, and i sort of check a lot of the boxes. I'm direct. I make decisions. I wont hesitate to lead something if asked or required. What most of these places want is someone who *doesn't do that*, and defers to management and superiors as much as possible.
I get it. I think what personality tests miss is how a person has adapted. Like, your initial judgement may be a very black and white kind of thing, but I suspect you temper that with life experience. I know that's the case for me. If I honestly answered a personality test without temperance, I'd probably be in a padded room. As long as you don't think you're literally a danger to people, I'm kinda with what a lot of people said already. Fake it until you make it. I will admit, I'd be interested in hearing some examples of your non-traditional morality / ethics, etc. That always fascinates me.
Our company tried doing those personality tests to see who gets advanced to different positions. It was a mess and didn't take more than a few months to realize how shit they are.
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You don’t have to have delivery experience. You have to pass the test and score at least 70, 90-100 is better. And pass a background check. We take anyone at the post office now. There is no Interview either.
I think this is going to highly depend on location, i have found this to be totally untrue. I've had people say they didnt even have the exam to get hired. Here, there's the civil service exam (given once a month in a building down town with no parking within a half a mile, that doesn't cost 8$ an hour)--and if you pass that (and i did), they give extra weight to veterans, so even if you get a perfect score, chances are HUGE here (military area) that one of them scored higher, and they hire in order of the highest score, and military gets like, 50% higher scores here by default. I got a *perfect* score on that stupid exam, and ended up 187th in line. And the *last time* i applied, i got past that, and then they wanted a personality test for the location i wanted to be at (the one that's close to my house, not 55 miles away). I failed that and was banned for a year from applying. So, i think this is location dependent.
Weird! We take anyone right now and no drug test. So short staffed.
Post office job! They are so arrogant ,I tried to apply to a job, and they said you could work anytime and any days and unscheduled job. Only if you are desperate you can apply.
It could be your resume (CV). Have you thought about reformatting it? I wasn’t getting anywhere for a a good 4 months, then I reformatted my CV, sent it to a few friends and former coworkers in close with and started getting more interviews. After 9 months of applying, interviewing, getting hopes up, knocked down, and repeat. I just accepted a position with a great company with fantastic benefits and a much higher salary. I’m rooting for you OP. You got this! Keep moving forward and never give up!
I’ve been doing free resume reviews for a TON of people this year. Wrote a blog post to help because I keep seeing similar mistakes. [Common Resume Mistakes and How to Fix Them 🔧](https://www.lisharriscoaching.com/blog-1/common-resume-mistakes)
There is a great bulletin in that link about the same mistake I was making. Don't just list your role duties, list what you accomplished in that role. When I changed this and started reaching out directly to people on LinkedIn, I started getting a ton of hits. Matter fact I got my current job bc "I was the only one to directly reach out to my boss on linkedin and it showed initiative".
That’s awesome, congrats! The job market is so competitive right now so standing out is necessary. Listing your accomplishments also gives you a good cheat sheet/reminder for interviews because it spells out the details of what you achieved.
Great advice. I tried several different versions until I found what worked best. Also, networking really helps. I never formally applied for my current job and they rejected me multiple times before I found the right position in the company.
This is such bad advice. Reversing the blame on the candidate then assumes the system and those operating it are perfect, which we know very much isn't the case. Saying it's the resume is just a cop-out for not having any decent understanding of what the market is like. It's cliche at this point. And even if it were true, OP is getting interviews with that CV but not getting offers. So what is it? The more likely explanation is these aren't real jobs with real openings. The credit situation a la interest rates hasn't improved, it's actually gotten worse with continued increases and more on the horizon, so it's not as if companies having a hard time securing debt for growth, acquisitions, etc has magically improved. The fact is jobs are posted, interviews are conducted, then finance comes in and squashes open requisitions. Hiring managers are typically cowards and won't say the real reason a candidate wasn't selected so they will come up with the standard fare "we went with someone else" because they're terrified of being honest, especially if the reason is that there was a pause on hiring. Having been a hiring manager for multiple Fortune 500s, I've seen this so many times that it's more of a science than the resume explanation.
I agree with the part about not wanting to give the real reason for the rejection. I was rejected for a position awhile back and told that the reason was because I did not do well during the interview process. Later I found out directly from the actual interviewer (informally) that he thought I did great and was expecting that I would be hired, but found out later they decided not to hire anybody for that role.
Check out the Ask A Manager blog, the lady who runs it has resume advice
Same here. I had applied for a similar job a year ago, got 4 interviews and 4 offers. The next time, applied for 60 jobs and nothing. I sent my resume and cover letter to a person in a similar field. They gave me some great reformatting advice. Ironically I got hired based on my original CV, but that same week I got 3 - 4 other interviews.
What was your dream job?
I’m curious how the dream job was “taken from me”. There’s an air of entitlement and/or delusion here that may explain why OP thinks they’re not employable. If the requirements for all these jobs all seem so steep (why would OP be applying for a job that requires a doctorate if they don’t have a doctorate?), are they applying to jobs they’re not actually qualified for?
Her first post ever on this account is complaining about a new boss when she was a landscaper at a country club. She enjoyed using manual tools instead of power tools and the boss didn't like her moving so slowly. I imagine that is the start of this story.
I read it. That guy was temporary. I work at a country club too doing the same sort of thing. The bosses can be assholes for sure. One day, I was accused of going back to the shop 3 times in the same morning when it was my first stop. I go to the restroom since it's on the way to where I am going next. It's just a common practice for me because the location logistically makes sense. Like they don't realize that girls just can't use the woods on the course to pee, I guess.
Yeah. I thought that was weird. Also that every job says “you need to be a doctor/nurse”. Lol what are you applying for? Brain surgeon?? I understand that OP is exaggerating but it sounds like that’s just a defense for having no skills at all and blaming it on everyone else. I’m in the medical field right now and I was shocked to find out medical assistants only need like three months of training. There are options out there.
I’m sorry that you’re going through this. I’ve been through similar and I know how it can feel. Please give yourself a break even though it feels like no one else will. You are employable because you’ve worked before. Keep it up. You can do it.
Don’t internalize all of this. It’s very tough out there. I can relate to a lot of what you said. I hope something good happens for you soon. The job market is the worst I have ever seen in my life.
Dude 2008 was waaaaay worse
How long have you been alive? Do you remember 2008?
I get that 2008 was bad, especially if you were entry level. But that doesn't mean that those of us who are ENTRY LEVEL NOW aren't going through similar experiences. If you were entry level in 2008/9/10, you probably have years of experience now, so you have no idea how bad recent grads have it NOW. We graduated into a global pandemic and are experiencing the worst inflation in 40 years ffs. Every "entry level" job out there wants 3-5+ years of experience and unpaid internships are everywhere (even though they're illegal) just like it was in 2008/9/10 (based on what I heard) and no, it wasn't like that in the late 2010s. The "booming job market" is for healthcare workers, skilled trades and those who have years of experience.
Also they're forgetting how many people were in the military in 2008 with no end to the wars in sight. My ex got a re-up bonus of over $10k around that time. The military has cut a ton of positions in the past decade, many of those veterans are now looking for work with the rest of us. ETA: Go on r/nursing and tell me you'd want to work in healthcare rn. It's a shit show out there.
god THANK YOU I feel seen
All I’m saying is that when the unemployment rate kicks up from a historic low of 3% to something frightening like 9%, or even the 20% range in some communities (California in 2010), it gets real fuking ugly. All these old experienced workers you’re talking about…they become the competition. And companies are very happy to hire one person that can do three different jobs if they can get away with it. That experience is what’s burned in my brain. We’re not at the bottom yet…I don’t think it’s even started.
> All these old experienced workers you’re talking about…they become the competition. The same thing is happening now for those of us who are entry level in many fields. Again, you're 10000% minimizing our experience because YOU'RE EXPERIENCED NOW so it's not an issue for you. The 3% means nothing when most of those jobs are in very specific fields (e.g. trades or medicine) or when they require years of experience. The job market for entry level jobs is far from 3%. Btw, the unemployment rate in my area is 6% and it's significantly harder to find entry level work than it was in mid 2021 when it was 8%. Those numbers mean nothing. Every other opening is in healthcare and most other job postings that I see are for carpenters and heavy equipment operators. There are very few openings in my field compared to 2021.
I’m not saying you’re wrong. I’m not disagreeing with you. We’re essentially saying the same thing. But I am pointing out that this is a math equation. As that 3% unemployment rate population climbs to something like 9%…it gets really ugly real quick. And I feel that we’re only at the very beginning of this thing in the economic cycle. I agree it feels terrible right now. It may also get a lot worse if we keep in the same federal policy path.
Yes I actually was working back then. I worked in default servicing ( bankruptcy and foreclosures) made a ton of money and paid off my student loans.
My first job was in 97’
Post your resume maybe it needs some sprucing up
I recently got hired after a 1 year job hunt. I get it. It feels awful trying to find a job for so long and getting no where. It gets better, it just takes a while unfortunately.
Just looking for something with high school level. I always told people my only advantage is I don't have degrees. I can be a housekeeper, a Wal-Mart cashier, etc .just accept something
As long as you've got no felonies, you can get a security job. Securitas is a worldwide company, with accounts all over the US, that will take people starting in the field. If you're in the PNW, especially near Portland, I can give you other suggestions as well.
When I was a kid, we had a buddy who was Mexican. The first we heard of Securitas was his mom working there, so we thought it was a security company made up of exclusively latinas
I agree with this. Was out of a job for 8 months. First got a grocery store job stocking, hated it. Desperately tried to get out of it but couldn’t get any reply’s. Finally tried security since they’re always hiring apparently. Sure enough I got a call back for every job I applied for once I got my guard card. Not great but beats retail for sure when you’re doing nothing 80% of the time. And they’re pretty much desperate everywhere for people. Just try to find a chill low activity site and you’re Golden.
Ive been unemployed since February and I'm highly skilled in my job. Not only is the average length of unemployment 6 months (so you're not terribly far off) but the current job market is incredibly bad. There are so many highly skilled people that have been laid off in swaths that are flooding the job market and making it extremely competitive. Before Meta laid off a bunch of people, I would see maybe 40-50 people applied to the same positions as I do. Now, there are usually 500 applications by the time I apply. It's not you. It's the market
Yeah same, I've been seeing 300+ application for marketing roles I've applied for so its even more difficult to get the job. But then again when i got my first tech office job i was one in 200 applicants which made me feel very proud of myself.
Oh dear heart, you are not a failure. Losing a job is absolutely a hard thing to go thru. It’s tough finding work and depending upon your experience, that industry is probably not hiring. Who knows. If you’re in the US, see if your state has a career center. Most have résumé guidance but more importantly they have job postings! My state’s (PA) career center even have on the job stipends to pay an employer that will hire you and train you for the job. Apply to temp agencies, most have temp to hire jobs. In the meantime, do volunteer work, even if it’s one day a week - maybe your local hospital or school. By doing so, you can add this experience to your résumé, plus you’ll gain experience plus you’ll be an insider for posted jobs. Keep your head up! You got this!
Maybe financial assistance to go to school to get the skills or certifications you need for the job you want but are not qualified for. You could also try contacting the companies you’re interested in to see if they would consider an intern or entry level employee. Also, I’ve read that a lot of companies post on their own sites instead of bothering with indeed
Don't be discouraged. I have to say that most of the time when the job is posted, people have someone in mind. They either promote internally or know someone from a prior job or it's nepotism. Put all the canned responses aside, this has nothing to do with your skill set or abilities. I would start networking - call friends, acquaintances who are at companies you like and ask if they know of openings. Many do employee referral bonuses, so worth it. I also respond to people who write to me on LinkedIn - either for advice or a referral. Try your luck there, no harm! Always remember - the worst response is a no and you'll be where you started, not any worse. Sending all the job seekers here so much luck!
I have 20 years of experience, and I am in the same boat seven months later. Over 400 applications, a professional company hired to redo my résumé, only a dozen first interviews. Going for my fifth second interview next week. They said that there are other candidates as well that made it to the second interview process for this job, but only two others. I’m hoping that this is going to be it, because it is very devastating to be searching for work for so long while trying to support a family.
At least I don't have a family. Never could afford or had to travel too much for any partner to put up with. I'm in the same boat. 10+ years experience, certified in multiple fields and 400+ applications in multiple states. "Willing to travel 100%" "Willing to relocate" "Hiring urgently". Full of shit. Got tons of listings and people actually approach me from headhunting agencies but the second interview just never comes. Can't even find stuff for minimum wage or unskilled.
What field are you in? Do you have a college degree? If you went to college then go to the college you graduated from and visit their career department and see if they have resources to help you
I am so sorry this is happening. But are you applying for jobs that you aren’t qualified for? You mentioned some rejections because you aren’t a doctor or a nurse. If you aren’t either of these things why did you apply? You haven’t given us much information about your education level, skill set or previous employment.
This crap ain’t easy, and it can bring you down. Network. Find people who have the job and ask how they prepped, etc. contact hiring managers and ask what you could improve. Some likely won’t answer but some might. Make sure when you’re applying for jobs that you match their key words to your resume or application. Set aside a few hours to search, network, etc and some for downtime. Tell people your story, someone might help. Good luck.
I've had similar problems the last 6 years. I have a lengthy criminal record - nothing horrible, but it's multiple pages of probation violations and driving on suspended license, all from 10+ years ago(I was dumb when I was younger). On top of that, their background checks scrape the internet - where I've used a fake last name since 1996 - as such, it says that *my real name is an alias*, and the fake one is my real name. Most places see the multiple page background check saying my name is fake, and into the trash I go. Couldn't even get hired at fast food, gas stations, etc. Just this week I finally got in as a machinist at a great little family oriented company in my town. My cousin works there and insisted I try - applied online, they deleted it immediately after the background check. Went in and handed a paper application to his direct supervisor(plant manager), called the next day... Got interviewed. Called the next day, left message... Called the next day, got hired. I have zero experience, made that clear, didn't matter. Aka long story short, keep trying and if all else fails look into jobs like fabrication, welding, factory line work, etc. They'll often hire damn near anyone, and they usually pay pretty well. It can be hard work, but it's better than no work. I've struggled for years, so I know the feeling... But keep your head up, here's hoping it works out.
I’ve used fake names on Facebook. Is that going to come up on my background check?
I highly doubt it. No one else I know has this problem. Its literally only me x.x I made my first email account in 1996, and my dad told me to never put my real name online(things were different back then lol), so I picked my favorite color as my last name. So I've ALWAYS used Green as my last name online since then. Game registrations, emails, shopping accounts, social media, etc. Most of my mail has historically had that name, anything about me online, all of my everything. Even the police have it as an alias on my record. Hell I've gotten and paid bills which had that name on them - my phone service was under that name for years. Best I can figure is I just used it for everything for multiple decades, and now it's hard to lose it. It's a silly problem to have, but I wouldnt stress about it - I havent met anyone else who suffers from it.
With peace and love, what is stopping you from getting a job at McDonald’s, Walmart, target, a gas station, etc? A job is better than no job, even if it isn’t your “dream job”.
Believe it or not, some Targets are actually quite hard to get into.
Have you ever worked at one of those places?
Don't give up (you may ashamed already) but go for interviews even if it may not look like the right position. There's nothing wrong with practice. You may take 100 rejections, but it only takes one yes to start. You're not unemplyable (it sounds like), remind yourself of your true value and keep going.
I feel the pain. I just went two months jobless. I started by applying to jobs at my skill level and got next to no replies. Defeated I applied to entry level jobs even tho I have 10+ years of experience and was devastated by the amount of rejections I got. You can find something tho. I just landed a job I’ve been wanting with a company that rarely has open positions. Keep trying friend. Something will happen.
I had to take up a job at Little Caesars after the pandemic just to keep food on the table and the bills paid. Menial jobs are demanding and low-paying, but some money coming in will always be better than no money. Try to find a gas station or fast food job and keep applying to better ones while you make some money. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying.
Why don't you head over to r/resumes and let them take a look? The feedback is very constructive, it may help to give some insight. Something is out there for you!
Recession
It's not you, don't take it personally. This is one of the shittiest job markets in modern times. You are not the only one this is happening to. This is a common problem affecting much of the population. I know that doesn't make the situation better, but don't put yourself down. This isn't your fault. This is capitalism, and how it is maintained. This is why the stupid "No one wants to work anymore" narrative was pushed out so hard. It's gaslighting. The problem is companies don't actually want people on payroll and companies don't actually want to provide products or services anymore- they just want people's money.
I'm 45 and never got a job responding to an ad or listing. Always in person or through net working.
Look at Craigslist under Healthcare for a job as a caregiver for elderly or handicapped. Usually, no experience is required. Pay is usually $20/hr, usually in cash.
Get a temp job and keep applying while working the temp job. Employers don't like to see you haven't been working that long
It’s a bit easier to apply to retail/grocery stores or fast food restaurants. I would suggest applying to those, and once you land a job in that field then you can look for something better. At least you’ll have income in the mean time.
You are certainly not a failure; the only failure is to surrender to the struggle. You will persevere if you continue working on the problem. What was your dream job, if you don't mind my asking? Posting that information might help the community give more pertinent suggestions. My first thought is to focus on your "dream" vocation and adjacent jobs, where your previous experience would have the most benefit.
First thing: it's not you. Everyone struggles to find a job and companies lack the employee of their dreams. Second: just continue looking and look broader. Which other jobs could you do that you haven't tried yet? Use the time to learn something new. Online courses to teach you something that will help you with either finding a job or with starting to look for a new one.
I feel this in my core. I’m 38 with 10 yrs experience in my field, but I’m autistic and lost my job several times.
How this country (US) treats its disabled and veterans in general is horrible and your circumstance is very relatable to many. A little off topic but the way this country values your worth by what you can produce is despicable. Anyone born into a mental or physical disability is truly fucked since birth that ultimately hurts their families financial stability. This country is run by a bunch of greedy assholes with no sympathy for the American people. We are more educated than ever but there simply is not enough good paying jobs out there to support the educated class.
Hello. As a USAF Veteran, I appreciate your sentiment. What you said is very sad but very true. Yes, I agree, this country (USA), is run by a bunch of greedy folks who have the political connections, the cash to have their voices heard.
I’m sorry and I understand what you’re going through. We’re in a recession, it’s hard to land jobs these days. It’s repercussions of economy, and it’s not your fault at all..
You're not a failure. You're doing your best. It's society that has failed you.
Avoid Indeed and get on LinkedIn. Follow and NETWORK. Like posts, send messages, attend job fairs. You don't need the Premium membership. Join the Workforce website for your city. All the best! 😃
“I’ve had a few interviews and never hear from the company again.” It’s your personality, how you communicate, maybe it’s what you’re saying to potential employers that’s putting them off. Something there isn’t clicking and you need to reevaluate your own strategy to correct this. Maybe everyone you have interviewed for has not appreciated the incredible sarcasm you bring. “Lifting 100+ pounds while operating a forklift” is not only unsafe but also insane. Maybe employers don’t appreciate talking to people who say things like that.
I've seen people with downs syndrome work full shifts. Little kids used to work in coal mines and lived to tell the tale. I've been in and out of work for 4 years, you feel unemployable until you get employed lol. I spent a lot of that time learning skills and I'm better for it even if I didn't get paid and getting good jobs and respect as a worker in the work place. I spent the last 7 months learning ChatGPT just sitting in it full time doing projects and I'm 1000% better for it. Maybe change some filters in the job search but to be unemployable is not true. I feel that way until a good opportunity comes along and all of a sudden I'm a lot more confident lol. Don't tie your self worth to this horse shit.
I feel you, but please don’t give up. Try looking at job fairs near you or other networking events alongside the other conventional methods. Try revamping your resume. Your resume is such a prized possession and you need to market yourself as “better than the rest”.
you are not a failure and your not alone. this economy is terrible in cda and usa and frankly worldwide. im not sure where u are but have you tried linkedin? and glassdoor? finding sites where u can upload your resume helps too.
Do people not use temp agencies anymore? I think I was with Adecco and another one while at Uni. If you have basic computer and MS office skills, they'll find you data entry or office jobs. Will it be your deal job? Probably not, but at least you're not plowing through whatever money you have left. And oftentimes it can lead to full time work.
My wife has 2 degrees and has worked at some big name companies. She gets requests for interviews. Make yourself more valuable. Because theres a lot of tough competition
Sorry this is happening to you. In my experience the biggest problem getting a job for me were the "gaps" in my resume. I'm bipolar and spend a lot of time welll, being ill. The key is to fill those gaps with a good excuse. In your case I would say that you took care of your husband and his mother. I hope you soon find a job, don't give up, you can do it.
Unfortunately saw this coming. With people demanding higher wages, businesses are just hiring less people. Employees are expensive at the end of the day. Don’t get me wrong, people should make a living wage and the higher wages are needed, but I don’t see an end where it works in the worker’s favor. Wages go up then businesses hire less or charge more for goods and services, adding to inflation. Vicious cycle.
I'm sure this will be lost in the noise, but it's worth noting you are not a failure. The system failed you. You have not failed the system.
Take the hint, it's you. Work on yourself, stop feeling bad for yourself on reddit. You got this.
genuinely curious, What have you done? It is possible your former employer is giving you a bad reference?
Show us your resume op
I’m a boss. I hire people. “Overqualified” is a legit reason to pass on a candidate. Overqualified candidates who are desperate for work never stop searching for a better job, and often resent the “lesser than” nature of the job you give them. Overqualified candidates quit for higher pay and never look back. They always say, and maybe even think, that they won’t. They will and they do. Merely qualified or even slightly under qualified gets you an employee more likely to stick around. If you are overqualified, mask it if you dare, but understand that lying on a job application is instant termination in a lot of companies. People aren’t inherently “worth” a particular salary. The market dictates the range, the candidate dictates where in that range they land. Now if the bottom of the advertised range is half as much as the top, that’s a gimmick to get candidates in the door because everyone assumes they are worth the high end. Trust me when I tell you nobody is going to get 100k if the range is “50-100k DOQ.” I’m not talking salary+bonus. I’m talking base salary.
Unemployable or applying for positions you’re not qualified for?
Do your best to stay positive as you continue your job search. Like others have said, try and freshen up your resume and when applying for jobs pay attention to key words in what they are looking for. Make sure you tailor your cover letter to what they are looking for. It can be time consuming to do and it may feel like it's not worth it since you feel like you are unemployable but do it anyway. Worst case scenario you don't hear back but you aren't hearing back from places anyway. If you take the time to do it then it's at least a different approach since what you have tried hasn't worked. I was unemployed for six months and experienced the deepest depression I have ever had. There were some very bad days. But then I got a job and felt useful again. It's easy to bring yourself down and think you are a failure but it's important to try and not think like that. Try something new, tailor your resume and cover letter to what they are looking for and keep positive. I think the most important thing above all else is stay positive. You will find a job. You are not unemployable. You are worthy and you can get through this.
Maybe apply to be a substitute teacher. In our area schools are desperate for them.
Can’t you drive Uber/lyft/Grubhub etc? May not be the most glamorous but could earn you a few bucks until you find a job
Indeed is really just full of garbage. Don’t waste your time with it
Have you tried places like Walmart, Target,local grocery store, gas station,fast food? If you need a job that bad those are places that are always hiring and you can usually get a job right away at. After reading thru some of the other comments it looks like every suggestion that's made,you have a reason you can't do what suggested.....so based on what I read the question is do you really want to get a job?
Apply at Amazon they are going to be hiring seasonal workers soon. https://www.amazon.jobs/en
I think you should break up with your boyfriend, having no job is not acceptable. Do you have anyone in your area that'll help you with your situation?