DR WORK
Sydney Morning Herald
Saturday March 20, 2010
QI am frustrated at not being able to get a job. I have experience, training and qualifications for the jobs I have applied for. Why aren't I getting offered jobs I know I can do?AThe marketplace for jobs is improving, with advertised and non-advertised positions increasing significantly.Although unemployment is lower than expected and job advertisements have increased sharply, the overall lift in job opportunities will still not eliminate all competition.There are other good people out there applying for the same jobs you're applying for and employers/recruiters are always battling with a selection process that is not always perfect in making decisions about candidates for jobs.Competition will always see someone win, while others miss out on a job that many candidates could have done just as well.You can enhance your chances by constantly reviewing your choice of jobs/industries, your CV, your applications and how you present yourself at interviews.If possible, seek feedback from any unsuccessful interview. How you ask will greatly improve the chances of getting useful feedback. Not an aggressive approach, or some form of witch-hunt, but ask for the potential employer to identify reasons you were unsuccessful. This information can help you to be more competitive at any of your future interviews.Focus on your positives. Treat every interview as though it was your only one €” and don't carry any past disappointments with you to the next interview.Consider alternatives €” a wider base of industries and related jobs.Above all, don't stop trying.QI'm just out of school and I often see possible office jobs but they all ask for more experience than I can offer. I'm sure I could do some of them if given a chance. What should I do?AIf someone had $300,000 in their hand and they saw a house for sale for $350,000, should an offer be made or is walking away the best option?What the sellers are asking for and what they may be willing to accept can be two different things.So, within reason, if you see a job you believe you could do but it asks for a little more than you can offer, give it a go.Your application may find employers whose desired criteria were not met by applicants, while someone who is honest in her application, very keen and full of potential, can meet their needs.When applying for jobs, always focus on your potential and your willingness to listen and learn from experienced people you would be working with, along with expressing your keenness to learn more through related training.If you don't give employers the chance to say no, you may miss the chance to hear them say yes.Email your questions to doctorwork@mycareer.com.au. Please note that due to the high volume of questions received, not all emails can be answered personally.For more Dr Work advice visit mycareer.com.au/advice.
© 2010 Sydney Morning Herald