Is this desperate or a good spin on getting a job you really want?

[MadameCastafiore]

I have applied for a job - only yesterday and haven't heard anything but it is one I really really want - it is local, fits in around the kids and isn't in the field I am working in at the moment which is having an impact on my mental stability - I am not depressed but am getting increasingly down about the things I have to witness and read.

Anyway as I said I haven't heard anything but I really really want this job so was thinking of offering my services free of charge for a week to see if that would make a difference - DH says go for it but some of my friends say it just sounds like I am desperate.

What do you thing?

[megcleary]

it can't hurt, i i have someone applying for a job I always take notice if they want to come and look at the place so to work for free they may be impressed

[alarkaspree]

What kind of job is it? I'd be wary of this idea, not because it seems desperate but because I think it's unlikely that it would have much impact on their decision.

If it's a job in a field where they'd be likely to have volunteers anyway I would still not volunteer before you hear back - they might think they can get you for free long-term - but if you don't get the job I would consider doing some volunteering there anyway, if you can fit it in. Might give you a better chance of a job in the future.

[minipie]

What's wrong with sounding desperate? As long as you make it very clear that it is because you are desperate to get THIS job (not just ANY job) then I'd have thought an employer would find it flattering and a sign of real enthusiasm rather than off putting.

It's not dating, it's a job application - they WANT to see keenness!

That said, I think I'd probably wait a little longer before making the offer - like a week or so.

[MadameCastafiore]

Its only as an assistant to someone who runs a chain of restaurants - just wants a right hand girl so to speak so no, I doubt anyone else would volunteer - think I will wait and maybe go into the main restaurant for lunch oneday next week and see if I can put something in motion.

It would just be bloody perfect and I could do it standing on my head and the idea of having fun at work would be novel at the moment - yesterday was one of the most depressing days of my life and I don't know if I can stand it much longer - any type of progression from the role I am in would take at least another 18/24 months and by then my faith in the rest of humnity could have completely disappeared!

[JustAnotherManicMummy]

I think offering to work a set period for free as a trial run could give you some good bargaining power.

The employer should still shortlist, interview and score all applicants equally but if it came to a choice between you and someone else then the employer may well give you a week to prove yourself and if all went well give you the job.

It won't get you the job, but it does make you slightly more attractive and show your really keen. Not desparate.

Good luck and hope you get it

[MadameCastafiore]

Thanks guys - I think that is what I will definately do, heres to looking keen and willing rather than desperate.

[luckymoray]

i would offer your services free for two weeks so they can see that you'd be great at the job...i reckon two weeks is long enough for you to showcase your talents. good luck.

[annh]

I would do it. What have you got to lose? If this is an admin-type role (which it sounds like it is) they will be inundated with applications. I have just received 400+ applications for an "interesting" admin role and about 70 for a more standard admin position so competition is fierce. As you have already applied, can you follow your application up with an email making your offer of voluntary work?

[MadameCastafiore]

Thanks guys - yes will definetly do it - I would just say 1 week though as that is all I can secure off of my current job as holiday.

I was thinking of saying 'Dear Mr , I hope you don't think of my offer as desperate or pushy, as I am going for more keen and completely convinced that I could do a great job for you..........'

Does that sound right?

[fanjolina]

any update MC?