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Thought it’s unclear if the anxious job seeker is either still anxious or seeking a job, Marygrace’s insight is transferable to anyone looking for work. Check out this article in the Arizona Business Gazette.

Anxious job seeker needs to persevere
Nov. 27, 2008

I have applied for 150 jobs since May. I had planned to stay at my administrative-assistant job until a new principal came, decided he didn’t like me and didn’t renew my contract because of “poor performance.”

Since then, I have had only one call and maybe two rejection e-mails. I can’t even seem to find part-time work at Target, Payless or similar stores. Can you help me figure out what the problem is? I’m getting very depressed.

Eugenia Mena Hire Standards

Let’s begin with your resume. Why are you staying in your jobs only a year or so? In HR, we notice “little things” that might become major when we hire for a permanent
position.

Hiring for any position requires training, and some companies are hesitant if they think an employee will leave after a few months.

If any of your positions were temporary or on a set contract, you need to write it on your resume.

In the meantime, when you apply for part-time jobs, are you sending your resume? If so, you need to shorten it and make it simpler so you don’t seem over-qualified.

You need to update or change your resume to make it more sellable in a different career or job, to showcase your assets: dependable, willing to learn new trends, trustworthy, etc. And you must remain positive. Keep looking, go to job fairs, or go in person to meet potential employers.

MaryGrace Ohab HR Strategies

Your frustration over the lack of response to your resumes, along with heightened money concerns, puts you in a very difficult position.

Consider ways to increase your confidence. Finding a personal support system as well as formal resources is a good way to begin. Seek guidance from state and local resources. AZ Workforce Connection, at www.arizonaworkforceconnection.com/jobseekers
.html, provides resources on skills assessment, training and financial aid.

Also assess how you are marketing yourself. Develop an inventory of your skills, experience and results. Don’t overlook concrete results from your contributions.

Locate and fill any gaps in your skill sets. You mentioned that a former employer cited poor performance as a reason for not renewing your contract. Are there areas for improvement or opportunities for increasing computer skills, etc.?

You have used considerable time and energy applying for 150 jobs. In the future, try researching jobs and industries that will be the focus of your efforts. An often-missed opportunity is use of a temporary agency. A high percentage of job seekers who register with temporary agencies obtain regular positions and earn dollars at temporary jobs in the process.

- Compiled by
Patricia Bathurst