Can’t Get Basic Job

My wife and I moved to Florida a little over a year ago. My wife who is 23, former d1 athlete and has a bachelor’s degree, decided she wants to get a part time job. About 6 months ago she started applying to random jobs like Burlington, Pet Smart, Walmart, etc while she studies for her personal trainer certification to starts her own business.

After 6 months and 20 applications, she’s not even had an interview. She’s worked for my company as well as my Fathers so her resume is great. We’ve tried leaving out certain things like her education because we were told maybe that was the issue? I don’t know. Seems odd a young, beautiful and outgoing girl can’t get a basic job after 20 attempts. Not even an interview. She’s tried online searches, driving around calling signs and simply walking into businesses.

She’s totally given up and I don’t blame her. Anyone else run into something like this?

Jobadvisor:

It's definitely frustrating when you're putting in the effort and not seeing any results, especially when it seems like your wife is a strong candidate. A few possibilities might be at play here, and it's worth exploring them systematically. It's unlikely to be anything personal, and more likely a mismatch somewhere in the application process.

Here's a breakdown of things to consider:

• Resume and Cover Letter Targeted for Retail/Service: While her resume might be great for professional roles, it might not be optimized for the types of part-time jobs she's seeking. Retail and service jobs often look for specific skills like customer service, cash handling, teamwork, and availability. Her resume might be too focused on her athletic background or other professional experiences that aren't directly relevant. A separate, shorter resume and cover letter tailored specifically for each type of role (e.g., cashier, sales associate, pet care) would be beneficial. Highlighting transferable skills from her athletic background (discipline, teamwork, work ethic) would be good.

• Application Process Issues:

  • Online Applications: Many large retailers use automated systems to filter applications. If keywords aren't present on her resume or application, it might be automatically rejected. Make sure her application is completely filled out, even the optional sections.
  • Timing: The timing of applications matters. Applying when a business isn't actively hiring is a waste of time. She should try to apply when she sees "now hiring" signs or online postings for open positions. Mid-week applications might also be more effective than weekend ones.
  • Follow-Up: A brief, polite follow-up email or phone call a few days after applying can show initiative and make her application stand out. However, don't be pushy.
  • Walking In: While walking in can sometimes work, it's less common now. Most places prefer online applications. If she does walk in, she should have a printed resume ready.

• Job Market and Competition: The local job market in Florida could be competitive, even for part-time positions. There might be many other people applying for the same roles.

• Availability and Flexibility: Part-time jobs often require flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. If her availability is limited, it could be a factor. Being as open as possible with her availability can increase her chances.

• Networking: Even for part-time jobs, networking can be helpful. Does she know anyone who works in retail or service? They might be able to provide insights or even put in a good word.

• Consider Smaller Businesses: While larger chains are often the first thought, smaller local businesses might be more open to hiring someone with a diverse background. They might also have a less rigid application process.

• Personal Trainer Certification: Since she's working towards her certification, she might consider looking for part-time work in gyms or fitness studios, even if it's not directly related to personal training. This could get her foot in the door in the fitness industry.

It's important to stay positive and persistent. Job searching can be tough, but with a strategic approach, your wife will find the right opportunity. Don't give up!

Job market is unreal for tech marketers

Hi friends,

SaaS marketer here - I was laid off over the summer and have tried almost everything:

cold applying

warm applying (referrals)

reaching out to my network

googling companies who recently raised $

reaching out to strangers on Reddit

reaching out to other companies in the industries I've worked in

I have done more "trial projects" than I can count (both free AND paid) and have received so much positive feedback from interviewers ("you'll be fine", "we loved you but we don't have the budget", "you're smart, you'll figure it out").

I have almost 10 years of work experience and I am genuinely very good at my job - I have helped every company I've worked with grow in specific, measurable ways.

I am an extremely persistent person but this job search has me feeling so, so hopeless. My unemployment benefits just ran out and I live in one of the most expensive regions of the US.

Jobadvisor:

It's incredibly frustrating when you're putting in so much effort and getting positive feedback, yet the job offers aren't materializing. The tech marketing job market has indeed been tough for many, and your experience reflects that. It's completely understandable that you're feeling hopeless, especially with the added pressure of unemployment benefits running out and living in a high-cost area. Here's a breakdown of potential strategies and things to consider, combining your current efforts with some new ideas:

Analyzing Your Current Approach & Refining It:

• Cold Applying: While necessary, cold applying has a low success rate. Focus on quality over quantity. Target companies whose values align with yours and where your skills are a direct match for their needs. Customize your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting relevant achievements. Generic applications often get overlooked.
• Warm Applying (Referrals): This is your strongest avenue. Double down on your network. Don't just ask for referrals; ask for specific introductions to people in hiring positions at target companies. Prepare a concise "elevator pitch" about what you're looking for and how you can help.
• Networking: Expand your network beyond your immediate circle. Attend industry events (even virtual ones), join relevant online communities, and engage in LinkedIn discussions. Connect with recruiters specializing in tech marketing. Informational interviews can be incredibly valuable, even if they don't lead to immediate job openings.
• Targeted Company Research: You're already researching companies that have raised funding, which is smart. Go deeper. Look at their recent marketing campaigns, their website traffic, their social media presence. Identify their pain points and how your skills can address them. This shows initiative and makes you stand out.
• Trial Projects: While these can be helpful, be strategic. Don't do free projects unless they offer significant potential for exposure or lead to a paid opportunity. If you're doing paid trial projects, ensure the pay is fair and that there's a clear understanding of the project's scope and potential next steps. Use these projects to build your portfolio and showcase your skills.
• Reddit and Other Platforms: These can be good for getting advice and connecting with people, but they're less likely to yield direct job opportunities. Focus your energy on more targeted networking and company outreach.

New Strategies & Considerations:

• Niche Down: Consider specializing in a specific area of tech marketing (e.g., SEO, content marketing, paid advertising, social media marketing, product marketing). This can make you more attractive to certain companies looking for specialized skills.
• Freelancing/Contract Work: While you're looking for a full-time role, consider freelancing or contract work to bridge the gap and keep your skills sharp. This can also lead to full-time opportunities. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn can be good starting points.
• Portfolio Development: Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and showcases your best work. Quantify your achievements whenever possible. If you don't have recent work to show, consider creating personal projects or contributing to open-source projects.
• Resume and LinkedIn Profile Optimization: Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile are optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and highlight your most relevant skills and achievements. Use keywords that are common in tech marketing job descriptions.
• Salary Expectations: Research the market rate for your skills and experience in your area. Be prepared to negotiate, but also be realistic about your expectations.
• Consider Relocation (if possible): While you mentioned living in a high-cost area, if you're open to relocating, you might find more opportunities in other tech hubs.
• Mental Health: Job searching can be incredibly stressful, especially when you're facing financial pressure. Prioritize your mental health. Talk to friends, family, or a therapist. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Key Takeaways:

• Persistence is key, but it needs to be strategic persistence. Refine your approach, focus on quality over quantity, and explore new avenues.
• Networking is crucial. Leverage your existing network and actively expand it.
• Don't give up. The right opportunity is out there.

It's a tough market, but your experience and persistence will eventually pay off. Keep refining your approach, stay positive, and don't be afraid to ask for help. You've got this!

Should I quit my deathly boring 80k job?

I am deathly bored at my office job. I barely have any work to do, I sit here for 8 hours a day falling asleep at my desk. There’s nobody checking on my work as long as things are done right. I feel absolutely useless and depressed. This is my first office job since graduating school. The salary is nice but sitting here for 8 hours a day is really making me depressed. I’d rather work on my hands and feet so I’m not rotting my life away in an office. This is killing confidence I have in myself for the next step I need to take to get out of this and I want to die. I am desperate.

Jobadvisor:

It sounds like you're in a really tough spot, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling so frustrated and depressed. A job that's both boring and makes you feel useless can be incredibly draining, even if the salary is good. It's good that you're recognizing the impact this is having on your mental health and self-confidence. Wanting to make a change is a positive step.

Here's a breakdown of things to consider, to help you make the best decision for you:

1. Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: Your feelings are valid. It's okay to feel bored, depressed, and like you're wasting your time. Don't minimize what you're going through. This is impacting your well-being, and that's important.

2. Analyze the Situation:

• The Boredom: Is the lack of work a constant thing, or are there busier periods? Could you proactively seek out more responsibilities or projects? Could you use some of the downtime for professional development, like online courses or learning new skills that could be beneficial in the future? Sometimes, a boring job can be a springboard for something better if you use the time wisely.
• The Depression: It's important to differentiate between feeling down about your job and actual clinical depression. If your feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in things are persistent and impacting other areas of your life, please, please talk to a doctor or mental health professional. They can provide support and guidance.
• The Salary: 80k is a significant salary. Consider what you'd be willing to take as a pay cut for a more fulfilling job. Create a realistic budget to understand your financial needs.
• Your Ideal Job: What kind of work would truly make you happy? What are your passions and interests? Do some research into different career paths that might be a better fit. Think about what aspects of working with your "hands and feet" appeal to you – is it the physical activity, the tangible results, or being outdoors? There are many options to explore.

3. Explore Your Options:

• Talk to your manager: Have an honest conversation about your workload and your desire for more challenging assignments. They might be able to offer opportunities you're not aware of. This also shows initiative.
• Networking: Talk to people in different fields, especially those doing work you find interesting. Learn about their experiences and get advice.
• Skill Development: Even while you're still in your current job, invest in developing skills that will make you more marketable in your desired field. Online courses, workshops, or even volunteering can be great ways to do this.
• Job Search: Start looking for other jobs, even if you're not 100% sure you'll leave your current one. This will give you a sense of what's out there and what kind of roles you might qualify for.
• Financial Planning: If you're considering a career change that might involve a lower starting salary, create a financial plan to ensure you can make the transition comfortably.

4. Make a Plan:

• Timeline: Set a realistic timeline for yourself. For example, you might give yourself three months to explore other options and develop your skills.
• Goals: Break down your larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, your goal might be to "find a more fulfilling job." Smaller steps could be "research three different career paths," "take an online course in X," or "network with five people in Y field."

5. Prioritize Your Mental Health:

• Self-Care: Make sure you're taking care of yourself physically and mentally. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and engage in activities you enjoy.
• Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about how you're feeling. Don't try to go through this alone.

Regarding your comment about wanting to die: Please know that you are not alone, and there is help available. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out for help immediately. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (in the US) or look up the equivalent in your country. ¹ There are people who care about you and want to help.

My coworker told me “I only do my job”, is it a problem long term?

My coworker is someone who shows he’s really working alot. And very enthusiastic to show that his doing better for the company. He said he wants to work where they know his value. He doesn’t work for money because he already has it.

I decided to quit my job and he told me I only “do my job” and that’s it. I never think about how to improve the company in any way. And it was hard for him to get close to me. So he worked hard alone, without thinking about me. He says he likes a workplace where everyone’s enthusiastic to do their best, and its his style..

I admit. I don’t work to live.. I love my life and work balanced life. I don’t work late. I go home and arrive job on time. I don’t think I will ever be someone who takes work to self improvement. I will do what needs to be done.

I don’t know what to think about this situation. Am I wrong to work this way? Is it bad for the work culture?

Jobavisor:

Your coworker's comment, "I only do my job," reveals a fundamental difference in work philosophy between you two.  It's not necessarily a problem long-term, but it highlights potential friction and misunderstandings, and whether it's "bad" depends on the specific work culture. Let's break this down:

Your Coworker's Perspective:

Driven by Recognition and Value: He clearly thrives on recognition and wants his contributions to be seen. His comment about already having money suggests his motivation is more about purpose and impact than financial gain.

Enthusiasm and "Going Above and Beyond": He values a workplace where everyone is highly engaged and dedicated, likely viewing "just doing your job" as lacking ambition or commitment.

Potential for Isolation: His comment about working alone, despite trying to connect, suggests a possible lack of collaboration or difficulty in working with others who don't share his intense work style.

Your Perspective:

Work-Life Balance: You prioritize a healthy balance, viewing work as a means to support your life, not define it. This is a perfectly valid and increasingly common approach.

Meeting Expectations: You focus on fulfilling your responsibilities and delivering what's required, which is also essential for a functioning workplace.

Different Motivations: You're not driven by the same need for external validation or the desire to constantly "improve" the company beyond your defined role.

Is There a Right or Wrong?

No, there isn't. Both approaches have their merits and drawbacks.  Your coworker's drive can lead to innovation and high achievement, but it can also lead to burnout or alienating colleagues. Your approach fosters stability and avoids overwork, but it might be perceived as lacking ambition by some.

The Real Issue: Compatibility and Communication

The core issue isn't whether one of you is "wrong," but rather the mismatch in your work styles and motivations.  This mismatch can create tension and misunderstandings.

Is it Bad for the Work Culture?

It depends on the work culture. Some organizations value and reward the kind of dedication your coworker exhibits. Others prioritize work-life balance and a more sustainable pace.  A healthy work culture ideally finds a balance between these two extremes.

What to Do:

Acknowledge the Difference: Recognize that you and your coworker have different approaches and that's okay. Neither of you needs to change your fundamental philosophy.

Focus on Mutual Respect: Even if you don't agree with his approach, respect his dedication. He, in turn, should respect your focus on balance.

Open Communication (If Appropriate): If you feel comfortable, you could have a calm conversation with your coworker about your different work styles. Explain that you value your work-life balance and focus on meeting your responsibilities, and that this doesn't mean you're not committed to the company's success. However, this conversation is only necessary if you feel it will be productive and won't lead to further conflict.

Don't Take it Personally: Try not to take his comments personally. They reflect his own values and motivations, not necessarily a judgment on your worth as a colleague.

Find Your Tribe: Ultimately, you want to be in a work environment that aligns with your values. If the current culture heavily favors the "always-on" mentality, it might not be the best fit for you long-term. Your decision to quit might be a good one if it leads you to a more compatible workplace.

In short: You're not wrong for prioritizing work-life balance.  Your coworker isn't wrong for being highly driven. The key is understanding the difference and finding a way to coexist (or find a workplace that better suits your individual style).