Feeling somewhat lost and confused....
So, I am having a bit situation, I am a restaurant professional. With over 30 years of experience, ranging from Front of House to Back of House. I am 47, born and bred NYC boy. So back in February 2007, I left NYC to the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It was completely a blind move; I have never been there and did not know a single soul. Yes, it was a bit scary and very challenging. But it was the best thing I ever did for myself. After this small recap, in May 2013 I moved back to NYC. I had to be a caregiver for my mother who is suffering from Alzheimer. That is a 24/7 job in it of itself, not an easy thing to deal with but I did what any good son would do. About 8 months ago she went into a nursing home. So, I could further pursue my career. The thought of going back to Colorado is very enticing but not sure if I should move so far from my mother, my story in a nutshell. Anyway, I started looking for a job in the city. Before my move to Colorado, I never had to look for a job. Like the saying goes, “it’s not what you know but who you know”. All the jobs have I had was simply from word of mouth or reputation. Now, this is not the case, my connections are not burnt, they just don’t exist anymore. But, my situation is horrifying. There are 2 websites that specifically focus on the Hospitality industry, I have submitted 120 resumes, I treat those sites as a newspaper ad. I will apply online then I will do a physical face to face with a hard copy in my hand. I only landed all but a few interviews. I can’t seem to land a job. I feel confident that I interview very well. Now it has been said that I over qualified. Whoever will review my resume or interview me, might be fearful for their job. They think I might be better than them and know more than they do. That may be the case but I am not after their job. When I interview, I do not focus on what I know. But rather on how I stay focus on the guest. That is the only reason anyone would be in this industry, to provide superior service. I have tried to DUMB DOWN MY RESUME (I went back to 1992 then 1999). BUT HOW FAR DO I HAVE TO GO?! It has been suggested that rather than list my many years just go back just 10 years. If I were to do that, the only experience I would have is from Colorado, that would eliminate my NYC background. Which is vital looking for a job in NYC. Then there is that gap as a caregiver. Any advice from you guys would be greatly appreciated. I THANK YOU, ALL in advance.
Donthe give up Daniel just keep applying and god will open a way . I'm going to pray for you for the blessing that your deserve
So I have had a few interviews, they went well or so I thought. The issue that I have not worked in a restaurant since 2013 was addressed. I told them when you do something for more than your life and with passion and dedication. It's like riding a bike, it just comes naturally. The interviews all lasted over 30 mins which I found to be a good sign. Each one was left as a pleasure to meet me and they all appreciated my experience. That they will be in touch. I did a call back in a respected time frame. Left messages, so far no returned calls. One would think that out of mere respect, whether it was good or bad, they would have called right? One of the interviews was for a place that was still in the final stages of construction. That one I would understand. But the others? How should I react to that?
I need to get back to working fulltime I can see how the Job networking has changed a lot in the lady 2 or 3 years I really like what you shared Daniel your experience it is encouraged me. I just trying to be confident and soul Since I haven't worked for awhile I feel lil rusty. I took some time for my kids as domestic homemaker caregiver. just after my late husband past. I am now looking at past work experience in customer service front office skills and I have decided to do part time work in my go to fields as caregiver provider and home care aide. While also brushing up my skills in workshops and job training skills for front office customer serve expertise. Thanks again any suggestions world be greatly appreciated.
Thanks everyone for any all helpful advise.
Have you attempted to go to NYS or look for things like Mortons steak house? I work in a Casino have you tried any of these establishments? Just throwing that out there. I hope you Mom is ok! Tammy
10 years of work experience history is the standard but I wouldn’t recommend dumbing down your resume as a means of getting your foot in the door. If you’re still using a one size fits all resume stop. That strategy isn’t effective anymore in today’s recruiting environment. Try customizing your resume to meet the specific job requirements for each job you apply for. Using this strategy will lead to more interviews where you have an opportunity to sell your other skills. Hope your mom is doing well.
Before I transitioned into the govt sector as a supervisory inventory management specialist for the food service division, I was in the culinary field in the private sector for 15 years or so. Started as a cook, moved up to Line Cook, and onward. My last private position was Sous Chef. Anyway, I can't imagine trying to find a job in the culinary field in NYC. It HAS to be the most competitive market in the country. All I can recommend you do is keep sending your resume out and applying for jobs as soon as they open up. Good Luck!