to never want to apply for a job?

[FreudianSlipIntoMyLaptop]

Because I'm terrified of the inevitable rejection?

I know, it is pathetic :(

I'm 24 with 2 DCs. Been SAHM as we've just about managed with DH working, and I'm doing an OU degree hoping to be a teacher.

Now though, we've agreed to try both going part time mainly due to DH's health. I really want to work. But I am so scared :(

I've worked before but only through 'connections', and my last employer made me redundant halfway through my first pregnancy because her business folded.

I've never got a job through 'normal' means - I'm always underqualified in terms of experience, or overqualified academically (top A level results in my college) - self esteem in this department is non existent.

Sorry this is all jumbled but I'm on my way to DD's nursery and I'm planning to casually ask about jobs, but I'm so nervous about this tiny first step that I want to cry :(

Help?

Freudian, how did it go yesterday?

I think that 5 years of piano teaching experience is actually quite substantial and worthy of respect. It would be a shame not to use your talent and experience in this area.

I agree with a pp that it would be worth just taking the Grade 8 exam (or a Diploma, if you feel you're closer to that standard), partially because it would make you feel more confident in yourself.

It may be worth asking on FreeCycle, PreLoved or similar if anyone has a piano to give away.

I (reluctantly) gave away the piano I learned to play on as a child because we couldn't fit two pianos in our home and it was costing too much to keep in storage. I was glad to see it go to a good home. I've seen other pianos on FreeCycle regularly.

Good luck!

Get someone to give you some mock interview
training. Take notice of their feedback. Record the interview if possible, and watch it back together.

If you are turned down for something (and it's happened to the very best of people), always be brave and phone up for feedback.

Be cheerful and positive when phoning. Have a script:

What could I have done differently or better at the interview?

Would you recommend I changed anything about my CV?

Be interested in the results, don't take criticism personally, thank the person profusely (it's not easy giving constructive feedback) and act upon anything you can change.

You'll soon have that confidence back.

Agree with togo about the piano Freudian - try to get hold of one somehow and do a bit of practise, then volunteer to play at your local school for assemblies or concerts (they are always in dire need of this). When people approach you (which they will), just tell them you are a piano teacher, and before you know it you will have pupils!

I teach piano, and no-one has ever asked me what qualifications I have. (I do have a teaching diploma, but it's for flute - I just say that I have lots of experience teaching piano, even though flute is my 'first' instrument).

Remember that a lot of your working hours will be outside of school hours - can be a bit of a nuisance, although I have found a handful of adults who I teach during the day, which is great.

Bucketloads of empathy from this direction for you Freudian because I'm having to do this atm and finding the rejection v difficult.

Hope you find something soon x

Thanks :)

Right, this is a new week, am going to be brave and talk to some schools...

Could you do tutoring? You can charge what you like and do the hours to suit you. It is a bit seasonal but it is experience. You could do GCSE and alevel maths. I am listed with first tutors and uk tutors. Gave a look at what people in your area are charging. I go to their houses so I don't have to tidy up first!

G'wan then, how'd it go?