Sorry for all the boring job-related posts. Clearly I have nothing else to blog about these days. Not buying anything, not saving anything. Just kind of drifting along. Working at feeling normal again. Trying to set a workout schedule, finding a climbing partner, thinking about volunteering with my ex-ex-job at the non-profit.
As for my job search, I haven’t been applying for jobs that are beneath my skill level. I spoke with an employment advisor on Monday who told me that since I am on EI, I have the time and resources to make sure I land a job that is equal or above the job I was just at. He said that since I have almost 5 years of experience in my field, I should be looking for “intermediate” positions – or for jobs that have growth opportunities. At the very minimum, jobs that are on par with the one I just had. He said I shouldn’t sell myself short and settle for a lesser job just for the sake of working again (unless it was my dream job) … because after a few months I’d end up restless, bored and unhappy, and would be back on the job hunt anyway.
I ran salary numbers for marketing positions with 4-5 years of experience in downtown Vancouver, and I’m right on target in terms of salary expectations. I’d consider a little less money for full benefits and more vacation time, but I feel confident that eventually, I can find something in the salary range that I’m comfortable in, with the challenges and growth opportunities I’m craving. I just don’t know how long I’ll have to wait.
Prior to yesterday, I have submitted 6 resumes for jobs that I feel I am qualified for, and have gotten 2 interviews. Today I have applied for 3 more jobs. I’m not exactly qualified for one of those jobs, but figured it doesn’t hurt to throw my resume into the pile.
I must admit, it’s been really hard to stay positive. Lots of highs and lows. Sometimes I feel confident, but most of the time I feel like a failure and also, kind of a loser. Word is spreading around my circle of friends that I lost my job. Not that I really care too much because they’d find out eventually, but it kind of sucks that the small group of people I’ve told, decided to spread it around when I asked them not to. People lose their jobs all the time, I know that. And really, it wasn’t my fault that I got let go. But still, I feel inadequate. And it really makes me think hard about applying for certain jobs when I don’t have experience in a particular industry. What if the same thing happens to me again?
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Did you read my unemployment survival tips? I felt the same way you did! So much that I hardly told anyone that I lost my job because it made me feel pathetic; inadequate as you put it.
It’s so important to stay focused on applying and it sounds like you’re doing great! Also try setting a non-job related goal so you do have something else to think about!
Good luck!
Did you read my unemployment survival tips? I felt the same way you did! So much that I hardly told anyone that I lost my job because it made me feel pathetic; inadequate as you put it.
It’s so important to stay focused on applying and it sounds like you’re doing great! Also try setting a non-job related goal so you do have something else to think about!
Good luck!
You have a few things working in your favor….1) there are jobs posted out there that actually (kind of?) interest you! and 2) you're getting called for interviews. That is pretty awesome. Keep your head up….I know how you feel (the feeling inadequate/loser part). At least you know the direction you want to go in, right?
My recent post We have a Winner!
These posts aren’t boring at all.
These posts aren’t boring at all.
Hang in there, and don’t be hard on yourself, it just takes time. What kind of employment advisor did you speak with? Were they helpful?
Hang in there, and don’t be hard on yourself, it just takes time. What kind of employment advisor did you speak with? Were they helpful?
I felt like during job-hunting periods, I had to think like a shark. You just have to keep moving, at least a little, most days. It'll take time and it's like a flipping roller coaster going through the process. It took me EIGHT months to find my peace and balance during the hunt.
My recent post A Day of Remembrance
You have sounded very positive, even if you don't feel it! You sound optomistic and confident — I'd be a total basket case. I probably was more of a basket case when I didn't have a FIRM spot at my job last spring. Hang in there — you'll find something even better than your last job eventually.
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