How to stay motivated when facing job rejections

[msrobot]

I’m a final year student, so currently in the midst of applying for internships, jobs and graduate schemes (essentially any experience I can get my hands on - not too picky).

I did a year in industry too (financial services), have completed a few workshops to add to my CV, volunteered for NHS, active in uni societies and predicted a 2.1. Also, have working knowledge of some technical software. I know that’s nothing special these days but just trying to imply in theory I meet most basic requirements of entry level jobs.

However, since September (when I started applying) I am facing so many rejections. I know it’s very competitive to get a job right now, especially when you’re starting from the bottom. However, I’m finding it so hard to stay motivated to carry on applying. Would really appreciate some advice of from those who have experienced similar

I don’t think there is much wrong with my CV, had it checked with careers service, most things I apply for I get shortlisted (few exceptions).

I’m okay (ish) with psychometric tests, have passed around 75% of the ones I was invited to.

However interviews are a mess I use the star method, do plenty of company research, have done lots of further on interview questions but I’m not sure what else I can do from here. I do have asd, which makes me terrible at coming across as interested / energetic during interview as well as maintaining eye contact.

Feel like I’m wasting so much time on job hunting, whilst letting my final year studies slide, only to not get anywhere - just rejection after rejection.
I have considered volunteering again to help improve my soft skills but I don’t know if I can afford to work for free much longer

I don’t really know where I should be focusing my efforts now as all of the jobs I’ve applied to feel so out of reach.

[JGACC]

I don't have much advice but just wanted to reach out and give some moral support. I know it's a really tough time.
I was lucky enough to find a job through networking. Admittedly I hate the job but at least I have something for now. Three of the jobs I've had I've actually managed to get by just writing to companies that look suitable and that is something I am going to try again. All three of those times someone just happened to have left and they were about to advertise! This was for marketing related jobs. Maybe it is something you could try?
Lots of virtual hugs and inner strength coming your way!

[WitchesGlove]

Could you afford a careers coach to do some interview practice with?

Read some books about interview technique?

Go on LinkedIn and have a look at the people who’ve got the type of jobs that you want.

[hillarypcof]

Hello OP!

Just wanted to reach out... I am a couple of years older than you and was in your position 2/3 years ago when I finished my Law degree. I could totally relate to your post.

I found exactly the same!! I was applying for grad schemes, law firm training contracts etc, anything to get into the industry and kept getting rejection after rejection. I took it so personally and it was difficult to not let it affect me.

I think my advice would be: be willing to go "out there" and get some practical work experience in any kind of job for a good 18 months or so. It probably isn't the answer you wanted to hear (as I know how it feels when you want to crack straight on with your desired career path as soon as you graduate!) but employers really do value practical work experience and the skills you gain from this over a fresh graduate with little to no experience of what its like working in the real world. The jobs don't have to be flashy, just anything to demonstrate your commitment to the real-life working world which in turn will provide some great examples at application/interview.

I say this because 3 years ago I didn't get anywhere - 3 years on I have 3 trainee solicitor jobs to choose from!
The only thing that is different this time around is having the work experience under my belt. My personality and college/Uni grades never changed!

Best of luck 💕 Be resilient and have confidence in yourself 💕

[MaverickDanger]

Agree with @hillarypcof - concentrate on your final year and getting the grades you need, and then look at practical experience.

I worked in a call centre & a tanning salon, then moved into recruitment & now work in strategic project management for an engineering firm earning decent money.

Working gave me more confidence in interviews & gave me more to say! I would also look at utilising the network you made during your year in industry and seeing what connections you have there.

[majesticallyawkward]

I agree with PPs, focus on your final year and if you can get any job as any experience is good- bonus if it's in what you want to do but admin, call centre, shop work, temping etc are all good too.
Join LinkedIn and make some connections, have a bit of a presence as I've had a few job offers just from connections (via LinkedIn and general networking through work events). Find recruiters who specialise in your chosen field and speak to them- if you want to share what it is and a rough area I may be able to give you some help there.

Is there a way to practice or get advice on interview skills? A lot really does come down to how you conduct yourself at interview, right now things like eye contact don't really matter for online interviews but your general demeanour is in focus and they are also looking at how you will fit into the existing team.

[jay55]

Don't take anything personally, it is the absolute shittest time with covid and brexit to be looking for a job. Well done for keeping at it so far. You're ahead of some of your peers who won't have even brushed up their cvs yet.

I used to be rubbish at interviews, I gave myself a talking to and turned my attitude around. Being positive and cheerful goes a long way. Take your time to answer questions and don't be afraid to say you are unsure about anything.

Also with graduate jobs, especially when you are interviewing for a pool of jobs, being too flexible can come across as unfocused.

That was the most annoying feedback I got 20 years ago. Where I thought I was telling the company I'd be happy to fit in anywhere and willing to do anything, they thought I didn't have ambition or focus.

Best of luck.