Discussions

So I've been applying for jobs lately in a new field of work. I've been doing the same job coming on 13 years. I find that I'm typecasted into the job I'm currently at. I find myself stressed out as I don't know what's going to happen when I go back to work (I'm on mat lrave). I cannot afford to go back to school at all. I have too many responsibilities and my SO cannot afford to have me as a dependant as well. I have literally applied at EVERY job in the classified for the specific field I want and have yet to hear back. Doesn't anyone believe in chances? I know this seems whiny but I really don't know what to do at this point.  
 
Edited by ake8409, 2015-07-30 22:26:36

I have some experience with switching careers and applying for jobs I don't have experience. I also have been on the other end of the hiring process, and that really opened my eyes to the process. I highly recommend tailoring your resume to each job. In the descriptions of you previous experience, try to point out the features that would apply to the job that is being offered. Being typecast happens and it is more likely to happen if you resume reads like it is designed to be for a different type of job.  
 
It is also good to have something that shows interest in this new field of work. If there is a certification you can study on your own for, or a continuing education class you can take, that helps. Or some volunteer experience in that area could be another option.  
 
When I apply for a job I have previous experience in, I tailor my resume to mostly just include things that would apply. I.E. I don't include any courses or certifications I have that don't apply to that field. However, when I apply for something I don't have experience with, I try to show a more rounded picture of myself, such as showing my ability and interest in learning by added some of the various education I have and academic awards, however I try not to go overboard, because I still want to emphasize what is applicable to the specific job.  
 
Above all this remember  
"If you ask me, that's the American dream, right there. Anything can happen to anyone. It's just random" - The Office  
 
And  
Sometimes it's not what you know, it's who you know.  
Networking goes a long way in the job market

Am in that position right now. I've tailored my resume for different jobs, but with no luck. I'd also say that Brandon is one of the worst places to find work. It's definitely who you know in that city, especially if it's going to be a decent job  

who reviews resumes and decides which ones get passed on to upper management, make sure your resume is professional and specifically geared for each job you are applying for. No spelling or grammar mistakes. A cover letter. It doesn't hurt to have someone else proofread it for you. Plus, I think we have government programs that help with this process of resume preparation. Its your first chance to impress your future employer. Don't miss out! GOOD LUCK  
 
Edited by Jaxon, 2015-07-30 23:32:44

For many years I was the person doing the hiring and to be quite honest it is difficult. I have hired well and not so well, I have called many many references and I gave up on the work references because peoples hands are tied as to how truthful they can be and because of slander laws and such, many won't even give a reference.  
When you have a huge stack of resumes on your desk and they all look alike and all read alike how do you choose. I STRONGLY recommend a cover letter that is exciting and gives the potential employer the incentive to want to meet you. This is the only area where they can get a feeling for who YOU are and it may open the door to that illusive interview.  
On paper many potential employees look and sound the same so you have to find a way to inject YOU into the scenario!  
 
Sorry.... Thats all I got!  
and P.S. there are a lot of jobs out there that are unadvertised. Take a resume in even if they are not....tomorrow they might be so beat the rush and this also shows them that you are interested in what it is they do! I have only ever been hired for 2 advertised jobs.  
 
 
 
 
 
Edited by HaPpY GrAnDmA, 2015-07-31 09:30:08

It is tough. I do a great deal of hiring for multiple client companies and the amount of resumes that we receive can be overwhelming. I cannot interview everyone who sends a resume so you must make yours stand out to make the first cut.  
 
Like others have said - tailor your resume for the job. Make sure you have the correct contact, job posting and company name on your cover letter. I cannot tell you how many resumes I receive that say 'Dear 'not my name', please accept my resume for the position of 'not the job'. It is frustrating because you aren't even sure they know what they are applying for.  
 
Other things that may make you less likely to survive the first cut:  
 
- Grammar, text speak, just emailing your resume as an attachment without an actual body to the email  
 
- Not following directions on the job ad. If it asks for a resume with references, don't say 'references available on request' I already requested them. Or of I say apply by email or fax and you stop by my office, you are showing me that you feel the rules don't apply to you and you can't take direction.  
 
- Not having the 'mandatory' job requirements. If the the job requires a valid license and you don't have one - don't apply. It isn't about 'giving chances' it is about finding people that have what we need.  
 
Once you actually get the interview there are many ways you can sabotage yourself without even knowing.