Really depressed over lack of jobs to apply for..

eternal_sunshine

I can totally emphasise with the OP's situation as its similar to my own. I'm not entirely sure what I want to do with my life, but have been searching for admin/clerical jobs in the meantime, but I have no experience so haven't been getting anywhere. I've now just been applying for anything that is accessible to me, shop jobs etc and I don't hear back at all, and I was thinking my degree is hindering me. A few of you have said about knocking it off your cv when applying, but what do you say you've been doing for the past few years? (I only worked for half my time at university)

sorry if that sounds like a stupid question, but dropping my degree was something I was considering, but I'm not sure how I would cover the big gap it would leave on my CV.

DCFC79

I dont get depressed over lack of jobs as ive found theres alot or 1s im interested in, i get annoyed when i fill an application form in and dont get a reply back or i get an interview which i attend and then i dont get a reply back

pinkshoes

If you speak fluent french, then why not move to France for a few months and get some seasonal work out there? Rent a studio or something, and get a job in a touristy area waitressing, looking after kids, summer camp etc... They may not pay great, but will be good fun, keep you occupied, and add something to your CV.

eternal_sunshine

DCFC79 wrote: »

I dont get depressed over lack of jobs as ive found theres alot or 1s im interested in, i get annoyed when i fill an application form in and dont get a reply back or i get an interview which i attend and then i dont get a reply back

ditto.

I understand some companies look at too many people to send 'dear john' letters to every single applicant, but I attended an interview a month ago and I knew that only around 10 people were being interviewed for the position, but it still took me a month to receive a rejection letter (i'd already worked out I hadnt got the job about 3 weeks ago).

DCFC79

eternal_sunshine wrote: »

ditto.

I understand some companies look at too many people to send 'dear john' letters to every single applicant, but I attended an interview a month ago and I knew that only around 10 people were being interviewed for the position, but it still took me a month to receive a rejection letter (i'd already worked out I hadnt got the job about 3 weeks ago).

i usually work it out that if i havent heard anything after 2 weeks max then i havent got the job

starsinmycrown

eternal_sunshine wrote: »

ditto.

I understand some companies look at too many people to send 'dear john' letters to every single applicant, but I attended an interview a month ago and I knew that only around 10 people were being interviewed for the position, but it still took me a month to receive a rejection letter (i'd already worked out I hadnt got the job about 3 weeks ago).

yeah, a few months ago i was interviewed up to second stage and it was between TWO! they called me back a month later saying "oh yeah, sorry you didn't get it" Argh!

catmiaow

~Beanie~ wrote: »

Surely job ads specify NVQ Level whatever or equivalent? You have the equivalent which is only 4 or 5 GCSE's at grade C or above?

The not being able to drive and living in a rural location will always be a problem. How do you expect to get to work and back? If there is a pretty decent bus service then ignore me but generally, rural locations don't have good service.

Seriously though, I have an NVQ 2 in Admin (done in the last 5 years, I am 40) and it was like teaching my grandmother to suck eggs. I had to write essays almost on how I started the PC in the mornings, or what action I took if the printer had a paper jam - I kid you not. Unfortunately it is one of those qualifications that you can't achieve unless you are working as you need to gather evidence that proves that you know how to clear a paper jam!

Keep your chin up, hard times are upon up (even the job I have got could disappear in the next month or so) but things will definately get better x

I agree with you, i did the NVQ level 2 and 3 Admin through work in work time, so it was worth it to say I could use the photocopier. It is so easy but a lot of places ask for this qualification. These do take the mick as there are other NVQ's I have done which are much harder.

joeblack066

Child orientated jobs are asking for NVQ in Childcare because it is a work based qualification that proves you can do the job! Just being very intelligent doesn't necessarily mean that you are capable of working with children, and people who have set their sights on a career with children follow this route, just as people who've set their sights on being a mechanic take a qualification in mechanics! You wouldn't presume that a law graduate was capable of servicing your car, would you?!
I would agree with the poster who suggested using your talents and skills by working abroad over the summer....great experience! Or see if there are any bi-lingual jobs going. What city are you near that you can travel to? Find out if there are any manufacturing organisations near you who trade with french speaking countries, they might need bi lingual staff. If you do leave off your degree, you'll have to fill the gap on your CV as prospective employers don't like gaps, they get suspicious! Get a professional to look over your CV, perhaps via an agency. Good luck!

Caroline73_2

starsinmycrown wrote: »

English and French. I did it with the intention of becoming a teacher, but I've applied this year to sept 09 teaching and nursing, but its been no joy jobswise ever since leaving uni!

Thank you for all of your kind comments. I've been taking driving lessons and hopefully not long to go until my test now!

Most hospitals are crying out for HCA's. They don't usually advertise externally due to cost restraints - have you called your local hospital?

Sharon87

If I was you I'd still apply for the jobs, even though you don't have the NVQ, as they may still see you. They'll see your degree and A-Levels. In job descriptions they don't expect everyone applying to have every single thing they want, it's like a wish list. If you don't entirely fit the description you may still get asked for interview.