Unsure which level of job to apply for

[MrsDrThorne]

I need some advice on what levels of seniority of job to apply for. I used to have a mid ranking level job in a media industry before being made redundant while on maternity leave eight years ago. I have freelanced on a very part time basis since then.
I don't enjoy freelancing and work is increasingly hard to come by so am looking for work.
I am lacking managerial experience and project management experience (that would have been the next step had I stayed in full time work) so can't apply for managerial work. But I am not getting interviews for the next level down (senior officer style roles) which I presume is down to being out of the market so long; the industry has changed hugely in the last eight years.
Is there any point in me applying for jobs that are one level about graduate entry? I am in my early 40s and would be going up against people on perhaps their second job after uni.

[MaitreKarlsson]

Hi, I didn't want to read and run. Sounds like you are possibly in the same area as I am! I went back to work last year after 3 years out.
I'd just say, don't sell yourself short. If I've understood your post you are already applying for one level below where you should be, and thinking now of applying for the level below that? But you probably have good experience and skills that are still relevant to an employer and don't need to set yourself so far back in terms of salary. So perhaps what you need to do is find a managerial/project job on a short-term contract basis or for a small organisation. That's what I ended up doing. Hth.

[MrsDrThorne]

Thanks Maitre that's good advice. I am not even getting interviews for senior officer level jobs, which are roughly equivalent to the level I was at before redundancy. It is hard feeling so undervalued. I regret not getting back in earlier through project work or shift work now but hindsight is a wonderful thing.

[MaitreKarlsson]

It is really hard job hunting (I am too at present) especially if you are a bit overqualified for some things but the next level is a stretch...which is where I am!
I did a 'back to work' 1 day course with Women Like Us which was really helpful and not too ££. If they are in your area I'd recommend them, it was great for building up confidence and job hunting tips.

[MaitreKarlsson]

Just checked - it was called Career MOT

[MrsDrThorne]

I'm not in the south east so those wouldn't work for me but generally it would be a good tip thanks.
I agree I think we are both in a very difficult position and confidence boosts are essential.
Best of luck with your job hunt, hope it goes well.