Why is it so hard to get a decent job?!?!
Hi everyone,
My name is Jess, I'm 40 and a single Mom of 2....funny how that opening statement makes a huge difference when looking for a job. Obviously, in an interview you never state that you're a single mom (both of them teens) but being my age and unemployed is very depressing! I started as an administrative assistant in Europe when I was 19 and I've worked my way to an Executive Assistant. Therefore, I have a bit over 20 years experience. I master Word, Excel, PowerPoint, outlook, Concur.....but it is so hard to find a good paying, normal hours job!!! When I interview, it goes so good that I am certain that I have walked out with the job and then it turns out that they went with the recent graduate that has no experience and half the salary. Mind you, I'm not asking for anything crazy, benefits for my children and I. If possible, a salary in the mid 50's would be great. I'm fully bilingual and have much experience but it seems that I'm too old for anything I apply for. This is very discouraging and have only been able to temp from site to site for the past 6 months. I know I need to stay positive but when the bank tells me that I'm behind on my mortgage (because I didn't know) and all for not being able to find a steady job....makes it more depressing.
Anyone have any ideas, please?
Thanks!!
When unemployment is higher, it is an employer's market. They set the rules. They get to pick and choose. And they will choose the cheapest they can and still get the job done. With computers editing on the go, who needs experience? Auto-correct does the job for you. Woefully you have to start at the bottom...again. Or you could train for another career and start at a higher bottom...but still the bottom. If I have one job to fill and 30 people seeking that job, I can afford to pick and choose. If I have three jobs to fill and 2 people seeking jobs, then the job seekers get to set the terms. I'm sorry. But that's life in an over-populated world. Something must die for the lion to eat; else the lion starves. Yet both the lion and the lion's potential meal strive to live. Life is hard. Life takes effort. Life is not fair. And life is worth the effort even though it isn't fair.
Hang in there. Don't give up even though I myself have been sorely tempted to do so.
Have you tried applying for any government positions listed on usajobs.gov or any state or county websites? With your administrative experience and skills you would be considered an asset.
Jessica, first I would like to say thank you for your service. Now your resume if I was to correct needs to show one thing. Simplicity in the dollar cost value of everything you were fiscally part of your concept. That means back engine and couple your work in millions. The door you went through few enter. Outlook word etc are what we were trained. Not the mean avg. Of. Value. Value is key or it's just cheap labor. I only know one evidence way for your mortgage to get better refinance a positive source and trust. At forty jobs make sense that emotionally work, then later easier to maintain your true lifestyle.
Hello jess, I to am a single mother and I am also a master at word, excel, and PowerPoint. These days employers doubt the abilities of those who are older, and always decide to go with someone younger with little or no experience, simply because they wont have to pay them as good. Being bilingual does not always guarantee you employment. I have been turned down from many jobs because I am told im over qualified..what a bunch of bs..You know you are very qualified for whatever job you apply for. Let no company make you feel that your not. Keep your confidence and believe in yourself, but sometimes you just have to start where you dont want to, to get to where you want to be. Good luck.
Have you tried simplifying your attributes as you did here and try not making yourself look overly qualified? If not try it. The economy has been down really bad and a lot of people has had this issue lately. Things are picking up and with some basic stubbornness you should be able to find you something. You seem to have an amazing willingness to assess your self and just believe in your gut instinct and try some sudden changes. If you don't want to simplify your resume then try a challenge job and apply for a CEO job to push yourself if you feel like it. Good luck.
My age is A big factor to employers
That opening line shouldn't really need to be addressed or spoken in interviews or when applying. It is none of the employers business. They need to focus solely on your skills/qualifications as an applicant. Don't overshare your personal history/current life status.
Here are a few tips to help you land the job:
Again, don't overshare. The employer doesn't need to know that you are a single mother of 2. Even if they ask, "Tell me about yourself", let them know where you live, a little bit about your background, personal interests/hobbies and volunteer opportunities. You can mention taking care of your teenage children, but that may make them try to determine your age which can work against you.
Make it a point to speak to your experiences as it pertains to the position you are seeking. Research the company before you interview and tailor answers to the company core values/mission statement if they have one.
Follow the company on LinkedIn, you can get a LOT of information about their style and leadership team. Mention recent accomplishments the company made by reading press releases they share.
Make sure you are comfortable in your interview. Maintain a relaxed posture and don't be afraid to be human. If you have a sense of humor, let that show but keep it clean, obviously.
Follow up the interview with a thank you letter to the person who interviewed you. At the end of the interview ask them if they have a business card. Your thank you letter should be simple. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I know your time is valuable and I sincerely appreciate your flexibility. After speaking with you and learning more about the job and the company, I can sincerely see myself as a part of the (company name) family! I know we covered a lot in our short time together so please feel free to email or call me if you have any further questions. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Sincerely, (Your name)"
Follow up after three to five business days to let them know you are still interested and look forward to hearing from them regarding a decision.
It takes a lot of work to stand out from the mass of people interviewing for the same position. Wow them with your charm, wit, and intelligence. Anyone can interview and answer questions about what they did and how they would do things. Look at the interview as an opportunity to get to know the company and let them get to know you.
Good luck, your dream job is right around the corner!
first of all you are not to old.! Stop speaking negative thoughts it might be the type of jobs you are applying for try other positions that you could be qualified for.