My parents are unironically saying "no one wants to work anymore"

My parents run a small general contractor business (they don't own it they just manage it). They asked me to post job ads for laborers on Indeed. They wanted me to leave out any necessary requirements such as experience or CDL, and set the pay to a variable rate of $18-$25 depending on the employee. That might seem high but minimum wage in my state is $16 and places like Target already pay $18. I tried explaining this to them, as well as the fact that those with experience and/or CDL can make more money elsewhere, but they didn't want to hear it.

Fast forward two weeks, and all of the applicants only had retail and fast-food experience. This shouldn't be a problem, because the pay is the equal to entry-level jobs, but apparently to my parents it was. They honestly thought that experienced workers and / or those with a CDL would want to work for $18. "But it's not $18, it's $18-$25! If they have experience we'll give them more!" they tried telling me, but I explained that variable pay rates aren't usually enticing and most people will just assume they'll get paid $18. Their response? "No one wants to work anymore". No, it has nothing to do with the fact that their job listing was uncompetitive (there's a million general contractors in our area btw), it's obviously the government handing out free money (to CDL holders apparently).

Jobadvisor:

You've hit on a very common disconnect between some employers' perceptions and the realities of the current labor market. Here's a breakdown of why your parents' perspective is flawed and how you can approach this:

Why "No One Wants to Work" is a Misconception:

• Competitive Pay Matters:
  • As you pointed out, minimum wage and other entry-level jobs have risen. Experienced workers, especially those with specialized skills like a CDL, expect to be paid accordingly. Offering a variable rate, especially one that starts at the state's minimum wage plus $2, is not competitive.
  • People do want to work, but they want to work for fair compensation that reflects their skills and experience.
• The Value of Experience:
  • Experienced construction workers and CDL holders have invested time and effort in developing valuable skills. They're not going to take a job that doesn't recognize that value.
  • They are also in high demand, and can afford to be selective.
• Job Market Dynamics:
  • The labor market is dynamic. There are many factors influencing it, including:
    • Increased demand for skilled labor.
    • Rising cost of living.
    • Greater transparency in pay rates.
    • Increased worker awareness of their worth.
• Variable Pay is a Red Flag:
  • Variable pay is often seen as a sign of uncertainty. Potential employees will assume the lowest possible rate.
  • People want to have a level of certainty when it comes to pay.
• The "Free Money" Myth:
  • The idea that government benefits are keeping people from working is largely a myth. While some individuals may take advantage of assistance programs, the vast majority of people want to work and earn a living.
  • CDL holders have invested money and time into obtaining their licenses. They expect to be paid for their skills.

How to Approach Your Parents:

• Present Data, Not Opinions:
  • Show them job postings from other construction companies in the area, highlighting the pay rates and required qualifications.
  • Research average wages for construction laborers and CDL drivers in your state.
  • Show them the current rates that places like Target are paying.
• Focus on the Business Impact:
  • Explain that failing to attract qualified workers will hurt their business.
  • Delays, poor workmanship, and increased costs are all consequences of understaffing.
• Suggest a Market Analysis:
  • Encourage them to conduct a thorough market analysis to understand the current labor market and adjust their pay rates accordingly.
• Highlight the Cost of Turnover:
  • Hiring unskilled workers that are unhappy with their pay will lead to high turnover. This will cost more in the long run.
• Offer Solutions:
  • Suggest offering a competitive starting wage with clear opportunities for advancement.
  • Consider offering benefits, such as health insurance or paid time off.
  • Emphasize the importance of creating a positive work environment.
• Be Patient:
  • Changing deeply ingrained beliefs takes time. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to educate your parents.

In summary: Your parents are experiencing a common problem, but their explanation is incorrect. People want to work, but they want to be paid fairly for their skills and experience. By providing them with data and focusing on the business impact, you can help them understand the realities of the current labor market.

How do I pivot from a work history of failed office jobs to fast food?

How do I pivot from a work history of failed office jobs to fast food?

It seems like my best bet now. But I can’t get my foot in the door.

I’m an introvert almost to the extreme so if I fake it I will come out insincere. Plus I have a despondent attitude thats difficult to hide due to my life not going the direction I expected. I’m 33. I haven’t worked retail or fast food more than a few months in my life.

Why would Chik Fil A hire a 33 year old failure over an outgoing 16 year old?

Every customer service interview I’ve had went poorly. Target has always insta-rejected me. Ive had several interviews with Starbucks but have been rejected 5+ times after interviews. I tried even shitty fast food interviews like Raising Canes and I was mocked in the interview for my weak resume (this was in 2019).

Hard to build experience to get a job at even Starbucks when you can’t get hired by Dunkin Donuts

For further context, I’ve had 2 office jobs and both were failures. So I can’t use them as experience. No references. My degree is worthless (Art History). If I didnt have to prematurely leave my first office job it would have been a good gateway to future clerical work or to other art related jobs possibly. The second office job was so bad in terms of toxicity I had to leave before lining something else up. I was punished for being introverted or “awkward” as they put it in that job and they started a bullshit paper trail after my manager informed me I was the office “scapegoat”

So looks like fast food with a smile is still my best bet. Even though I can’t pass an interview and idk how I could handle being cheerful every shift.

Thanks

Jobadvisor:

It sounds like you're in a really tough spot, and it's understandable that you're feeling discouraged. Pivoting from failed office jobs to fast food can be challenging, but it's definitely possible. Here's a breakdown of how you can approach this, addressing your specific concerns:

1. Reframing Your Perspective:

• "Failed" is Subjective: Instead of viewing your office experiences as "failures," try to identify transferable skills. Even if the jobs didn't work out, you likely gained experience in areas like:
  • Time management
  • Communication (even if it was challenging)
  • Problem-solving
  • Computer skills
  • Following procedures
• Fast Food as a Stepping Stone: See fast food as a temporary but valuable opportunity to build new skills and regain confidence. It's a chance to demonstrate reliability, teamwork, and customer service abilities.
• Age is Not a Disadvantage: While younger applicants may have more availability, your age can be an advantage. You likely possess greater maturity, responsibility, and life experience. Focus on highlighting these qualities.

2. Addressing Your Challenges:

• Introversion and Despondency:
  • Authenticity over Faking: You're right, faking enthusiasm is unsustainable. Instead, focus on genuine friendliness and helpfulness.
  • Small Steps: Start by practicing small, positive interactions in your daily life. Smile at people, offer a polite "hello," and focus on being present in the moment.
  • Focus on the task: When you are working, focus on the tasks at hand. This will pull focus away from your own internal dialogue.
  • Therapy or Counseling: If your despondency is significant, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can provide tools and strategies for managing negative thoughts and improving your mood.  
• Interview Skills:
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse common interview questions, especially those related to customer service and teamwork.
  • Focus on Positives: Even if you have limited experience, emphasize your willingness to learn, your strong work ethic, and your commitment to providing excellent service.
  • Research the Company: Show that you've done your homework by learning about the company's values and mission.
  • Body Language: Maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and use positive body language.
  • Prepare answers to negative questions: Have prepared answers for questions regarding why you left your previous jobs, that focus on what you learned, and how you will be a better employee going forward.
• Resume:
  • Focus on Transferable Skills: Highlight skills from your office jobs that are relevant to fast food, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • Keep it Simple: A concise, one-page resume is ideal.
  • Volunteer Experience: If possible, consider volunteering to gain recent experience and demonstrate your commitment to working.
  • Functional Resume: Consider a functional resume, that focuses on skills, rather than chronological work history.
• Targeting Specific Companies:
  • Chick-fil-A: They prioritize customer service and character. Research their values and demonstrate how you align with them. Emphasize your maturity and reliability.
  • Smaller Fast Food Chains: Consider smaller, local fast food restaurants that may be more willing to give you a chance.
  • Grocery Stores: Grocery stores often have entry-level positions in their deli or bakery departments, which can provide customer service experience.

3. Practical Steps:

• Online Applications: Apply to as many fast food and customer service positions as possible.
• In-Person Applications: Visit restaurants during non-peak hours and inquire about job openings.
• Networking: Let friends and family know you're looking for work.
• Online Resources: Utilize online resources like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to find job openings and research companies.   
• Food handling certificate: getting a food handlers certificate will show you have the basic knowledge needed to work in a food service environment.   

Addressing the "Why would Chick-fil-A hire a 33-year-old failure?" question:

• Chick-fil-A, and many other companies, value maturity, reliability, and a strong work ethic. You can emphasize these qualities in your application and interview.
• Your life experience can be a valuable asset, even if it hasn't followed a traditional path.
• The 16 year old may have limited availability, and be more likely to quit for other opportunities. Your age could be an advantage.

Key takeaway: Focus on presenting yourself as a reliable, hardworking individual who is eager to learn and contribute. Don't let past setbacks define you. 

What careers make $ 200k+ a year?

What careers make $200K+? I really don't have any interest in anything, and I am about to go to college. So at least l'm going to pick something that makes money until I figure out what I want-better than ending up with no degree. I have high scores, but I don't enjoy studying. I don't really mind pursuing any degree, as long as it doesn't cost me a fortune.

Jobadvisor:

It's understandable to want to consider earning potential when choosing a career path. Here's a breakdown of careers that often lead to $200k+ salaries, along with some important considerations:

High-Paying Career Fields:

• Medical Professionals:
  • Specialized physicians (surgeons, anesthesiologists, cardiologists, dermatologists) consistently earn high salaries. These careers require extensive education and training.
  • Other medical professionals like dentists and orthodontists can also reach high income levels.
• Executives and Management:
  • Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), and other top-level executives in large corporations typically earn well over $200k.
  • High-level management positions in fields like finance, technology, and healthcare also offer significant earning potential.
• Finance:
  • Investment bankers, financial managers, and hedge fund managers can earn substantial incomes, especially with experience and success.
• Technology:
  • Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), software engineering managers, and cybersecurity experts are in high demand and can command high salaries.
  • Those with expertise in fields like Artificial intelligence, and data science can also earn very high incomes.
• Legal:
  • Corporate lawyers, particularly those working for large firms, can earn very high salaries.
  • Judges also recive high salaries.
• Sales:
  • High level sales positions, especially in industries that deal with high ticket items, or large contracts, can result in very high incomes.

Important Considerations:

• Education and Training:
  • Many of these high-paying careers require advanced degrees (medical school, law school, MBA) or specialized certifications.
  • These educational paths can be time-consuming and expensive.
• Experience and Skill:
  • Earning $200k+ often requires years of experience and a proven track record of success.
  • Developing in-demand skills is crucial.
• Work-Life Balance:
  • Many high-paying careers involve long hours, high stress, and significant responsibility.
• Job Market Fluctuations:
  • Salaries can vary depending on economic conditions and industry trends.

Regarding your situation:

• Since you're about to go to college and don't have a strong interest yet, it might be wise to start with a broad-based degree that provides a solid foundation.
• Consider fields like business, computer science, or engineering, which can open doors to various high-paying careers.
• While in college, explore different fields through internships, part-time jobs, and networking to discover your interests.

It's important to remember that while financial security is important, job satisfaction and personal fulfillment are also crucial for a happy and successful career.

Anyone else hate the concept of sidehustles?

Why do I need to start a business and perform gig work in addition to my fulltime job just to have a standard life these days?

70% of the time the gig work is just scamming fellow workers somehow (flipping used bullshit/marketing shitty products). I literally saw someone bragging that they got a gambling addict (a fellow human) to signup for an online casino so they made lots of money off their referral (wtf???). We are so unimaginably cooked as a species. I just want to live a life, not spend every waking moment feeling guilty that I'm not chasing green paper.

Jobadvisor:

You're definitely not alone in feeling this way. The pressure to engage in side hustles has become a widespread point of frustration, and your feelings are valid. Here's a breakdown of why many people share your perspective:

• The Erosion of a Living Wage:
  • A core reason for the rise of side hustles is that for many, a single full-time job no longer provides enough income to cover basic living expenses. This is due to factors like stagnant wages, rising costs of living (housing, healthcare, education), and inflation.
  • This creates a situation where people are forced to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet, which leads to burnout and a diminished quality of life.
• The "Hustle Culture" and its Toxic Aspects:
  • The glorification of "hustle culture" promotes the idea that constant work and striving for wealth are essential for success. This can create a sense of guilt and inadequacy for those who simply want to live a balanced life.
  • As you pointed out, many side hustles involve exploitative practices, such as multi-level marketing schemes, predatory lending, or promoting harmful products. This can create ethical dilemmas and contribute to a sense of disillusionment.
  • The rise of social media has contributed to this. People show off their "success" which causes others to feel as though they are failing.
• The Loss of Leisure and Personal Time:
  • Side hustles often encroach on personal time, leading to a lack of rest, relaxation, and time for hobbies and social connections. This can have negative consequences for mental and physical health.
  • People no longer have time to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
• The Feeling of Systemic Failure:
  • The need for side hustles can feel like a symptom of a broken economic system, where individuals are forced to take on excessive burdens to survive.
  • The feeling of being "cooked as a species" as you put it, comes from the feeling of a system that is designed to exploit people.

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed and frustrated by this situation. Many people are advocating for systemic changes, such as raising the minimum wage, providing affordable healthcare and housing, and promoting a more balanced approach to work and life.