My situation is that I’m in a dead-end job with a lot of other undesirable aspects which I won’t go into but suffice it to say I’ve been trying to find another job for 15 months.

During that time I’ve applied for about 15 positions and had one phone interview, two separate individual interviews, and this most recent experience of getting a 2nd interview for the job I’ve wanted the most out of all the ones for which I’ve applied. This was THE job, though I know I shouldn’t put that kind of pressure on one opportunity. But you know what I mean.

To get this job, I gave up 3 days of work, $150 for new interview clothes and makeup, probably 20 hours in addition to the days off work preparing, and put my family through the stress of it all.

Also, this particular employer has the most tedious, demanding application process, which I didn’t include in the above prep. It includes transcripts and 3 current letters of reference, just to apply.

Then, when you interview the first time, you have a “task”. In this case it was a 10 minute marketing presentation.

Here’s the kicker: 7 years ago, I got to the same point with this organization – did the “task” which was extremely time-consuming, knocked it out of the park, was extremely qualified and a good match for the position, 2 interviews….then I didn’t get the job. Here I am 7 years later, same scenario. AND, last time they used my ideas that I presented in the “task”!!!

I am sure my marketing ideas will be used this time, as well. I was very thorough in my presentation and had great ideas.

I guess I’m just venting a bit…..
I will know in a few days whether I’m offered the job, but I could tell at the 2nd interview that the interviewer was distant, removed, not giving credence to my background and experience, fairly dismissive.

Sigh.
It is hard not to give up searching, but the negative realities and stress of my current job force me to confront the need to keep applying.

Thanks for listening.
I would love to know everyone’s opinion on these “tasks” which cull great ideas from candidates you aren’t going to hire.

The organization in question is still the #1 place in my area for which I’d like to work. But I dread applying for more jobs there because of the above.

That’s a LOT of questions for this little comment space. I’ll try to offer some thoughts on a few of them. (Thanks btw for the kind words.)

First…you did GREAT. Congratulations. says a lot about you. Also a good reminder for other readers that the energy from volunteering and/or taking part-time work can bring other opportunities. I don’t know why…it just does.

You should definitely be a honest about your reason; it’s a good one. As for when to tell your current company, I’m not sure why you can’t mention now that you’re looking since they have nothing to offer and are like family. Or might they come up with something if they were sure you’re leaving? If they can manage magic…good to know. If they can’t…then they will wish you well. All around, honesty is your best friend.

Good luck making your own magic happen!

~ Ronnie Ann

I have read “Matthew’s” unfortunate interview experiences and can understand his frustration. But on the other hand, he has at least been getting some response from potential employees.

My situation is following: I graduated from university in June 2010, and have been looking for a job since. Since the summer 2010, I have applied to more than 200 places in my city and surrounding area. Guess how many interviews I landed? None, Zero,Nada! I understand that experience plays a large part in this, (which I don’t have) but hey I am a new-grad with new perspectives, ideas, talent etc and I know that interviewers would be more than satisfied with me. But no, I never got a chance.

What I did then, is swallowed up some of the pride that I had and applied to volunteer in a company that I really liked. They called right away and I passed with flying colors. After 2 days of volunteering, they offered me temporary part-time position which I accepted. The director said, “We were afraid to loose you as a volunteer as we recognize how great of a worker you are.” (And that was only after 2 days of work!) I am happy right now that I am getting all this experience and am thrilled to be working with such an amazing team (they are like a family to me and we all get along so well).

My contract is expiring in one month and while my employer is on a budget and is not sure whether any new positions will be created, I started looking for new job again. This time I applied to a company that I always dreamed of working for, and 2 day after I sent my application I got a response to set a date for a phone interview. I am so thrilled now as I wait for this coming Friday.

I would like to ask you what would be the best thing to say if they ask me why am I leaving my current employer? Should I be honest and say that as much as they would like to keep me that my employer can’t commit to any future employment promises and that they have supported my decision to start looking elsewhere? They also are willing to provide great references…

Also, if my interview with the new company goes really well and I pass next interviews and hopefully get the position, then when should I inform my current employer that I would be leaving them? If my contract expires at end of March, is 2 wks enough time? The reason I am asking is that my employer has expressed huge interest in retaining me there as long as they can, even though they are not in a position to offer FT job.

Could you please share your insight regarding this? I am so eager to move on to new challenges and land that first full-time job. This would be my 2nd official interview after graduation Even though I waited and hoped for so many months to get that phone call, I never let anger or depression or moodiness take over my mind or body. I just know that my time will come soon and I couldn’t be more ready for it.

Thanks in advance to anyone who shares their opinion.

Regards,

Gaga

I’m on a blogging break so I won’t be answering comments. But couldn’t leave without letting you know how much I appreciate your visits. See you in November!

Please feel free to help each other in the meantime. Oh…and if you’re wondering why the break:

Blogging Overload: Do You Give Yourself a Break?

~ Ronnie Ann

“We’ll call you by (day) whether or not you get the job.” When they already know they aren’t going to be calling you, or who specifically tell you you’ll have a second interview and don’t deliver
. Yes, i want a job, but I don’t want to work for a manager who makes empty promises. You have no obligation to tell me I will be getting a call or a second interview, and I know there are a lot of candidates interviewing for the job. So just don’t tell me you will call me if you’re not going to. SIMPLE. You can still decide to call or not call, but now you haven’t lied to anyone.