So bored [can't find work]

LegacyUser

Sigh, similar situation to a lot of people at the moment. I was made redundant in July after being in the same company for almost 5 years. Since then (and even in the weeks before my redundancy) I have applied for almost 200 jobs both directly, and through recruitment agencies. I have had consultants and HR staff review my cover letters and CV. It really wears you down mentally.

I have done 70-80 hour weeks in my last job and can honestly say that the job application process is more tiring. You put so much effort in and receive absolutely nothing in return.

I am lucky in the sense I have the redundancy package and jobseekers benefit to keep me going financially, but I can't get used to being unemployed and feeling worthless. I feel if this continues I might potentially develop depression. I need to work.

To top it off, I have even applied for volunteer jobs (so my CV doesn't contain large gaps, and also to get out of the house), and been rejected. Says it all really.

LegacyUser

So ... why don't you emigrate then ?

The Oirish economy is not really viable for all of its citizens - because it is not
large enough in terms of its population for the provision of goods & services.

What has happened over the last 12 years or so is only 'a flash in the
pan'. And fuelled by big Multi-nationals, the Developers and the Speculators - not
to mention the Brown Paper Envelope.

Also, I have heard it said that had Biffo not stepped in with the guarantee for
the Banks - then one of the major Oirish Banks was on the brink of
collapsing. Kind of explains why a guy who has done nothing in politics for the
last 25 years suddenly got off his asre and finally did something. It might not
of course be the correct kind of action.

As well as that, as the late Brian Lenihan said back in the 1980s :
"We can't all live on a small island." ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Lenihan,_Snr )

Lovely people to have running your country - don't ya know.

OK - so let's go then ...
Get on the Internet and look for a job abroad.

Cuddlesworth

Lower your expectations, both in career and wages.

echosound

Cuddlesworth wrote: »

Lower your expectations, both in career and wages.

OP already stated that he was turned down after applying for voluntary positions (ie non-waged) so I don't see how he can lower his salary expectations any lower than that really?

OP it's tough times all round for the next few years if you plan on staying here - my only advice would be if you don't have anything holding you here, why not move abroad for a few years? Naturally, many other countries are in almost as bad a state as we are, what with stocks plummeting and economies all plunging into recession like dominos, so see what countries seem to still have demand for your particular skillset.

If you want to stay and want to get out and about for now while the jobhunt trundles on, could you even volunteer with local community groups- local kiddie's sports clubs/scouting groups, meals on wheels, SVP, anything like that? Something to get you out and something to put on the CV at least....best of luck.

NicsM

OP, would you maybe consider seasonal work abroad? e.g Working as a chalet host in a ski resort? There's always a demand for staff and you don't need to be a very experienced skier, just willing to work hard.

The hours are quite long and the pay isn't the best but your food and lodgings are taken care of. If you have no other ties at home it might be worth your while considering something like this until your career prospects are looking up.

JDLK

Ever considered starting your own business?

http://www.enterpriseboards.ie/

Cuddlesworth

echosound wrote: »

OP already stated that he was turned down after applying for voluntary positions (ie non-waged) so I don't see how he can lower his salary expectations any lower than that really?

OP what level of positions did you apply for when trying to enter into a volunteer job?

echosound wrote: »

OP it's tough times all round for the next few years if you plan on staying here - my only advice would be if you don't have anything holding you here, why not move abroad for a few years? Naturally, many other countries are in almost as bad a state as we are, what with stocks plummeting and economies all plunging into recession like dominos, so see what countries seem to still have demand for your particular skillset.

Why leave your homeland? That's a harsh step for a apparent recession which is supposed to be hitting every Western Country at the moment.

Nothing should stop you getting a job. Lots of things will stop you getting the job you want.

unhappycamper

JDLK wrote: »

Ever considered starting your own business?

http://www.enterpriseboards.ie/

Dublin enterprise board are an excellent service. I just got a grant from them. Great people working there with some great business starting advice.

Princess Consuela Bananahammock

Absolutely, take some time out. It sounds like the problem here is boredom, rather than lack of work. It's a bit difficult to say without knowing your financial status, but take a couple of months out and try some work/travelling - won't look bad on a CV. Failing that what sort of hobbies/interests do you have that you could devote more time to?