Being able to pursue worthwhile jobs
I just updated my resume to favor keyword searches for Administrative Assitant and Data Entry jobs. Most of my experience was sales oriented, and I'm not trying to get sales jobs anymore. I'm not getting any interviews at all. What am I supposed to do to get my foot in the door and show recruiters I can get the job done excellently?
Hector, use those sales skills to sell yourself. I have similar background but age is not on my side. ☺ luckily I look younger than my years. I exude confidence, can do attitude and stress bringing value to their company. Good luck! If you don't have enough experience, consider volunteering your services, especially if you are looking at hospitals / health care.
You can go ahead and try a short-term contract or you can also volunteer at one of their events in your local area for a nonprofit agency that might be related to some of the bigger companies in your City.
Good luck
While your resume may be using keywords to optimize results, are you using "active verbs" in your past positions? Be sure you don't put a "job description." Employers want to see what you have done and what you can do for THEM. Short, to the point, bullet points that will stand out to a quick scan. Here's a great web site for action verbs:
https://www.themuse.com/advice/185-powerful-verbs-that-will-make-your-resume-awesome
No kidding, I have not gotten anywhere either. I also am in sales, and I can not catch a break at all. I have redone my resume 2 times. I can not take temp jobs. Good luck!
I agree with Emily Hector. Find the right temp agency that will place you in assignments where you can pick up more data entry & admin experience and build referral network in those industries. You'll make a much more attractive job candidate in no time.
When I was looking for admin work I found temping to be helpful! Temp jobs would sometimes give me experience with software and projects that I could add to my resume to bulk up my qualifications.
Hello Hector, Having worked as as an admin asst I can tell you that it's a very competitive field. You can try starting with an entry level position so you can acquire some of the necessary skills. Many admin asst positions are very demanding and require various skill sets and without a few years of experience under your belt you probably won't be considered. Maybe starting as an office clerk will be beneficial since you're really wanting to get your feet in the door. Most businesses hire from within first before looking outside. Hang in there and be persistent!