Another failed interview and I’m devastated

[LoisLaneKent]

im early 30s, 6 months ago I was let go the day after returning from compassionate leave for a funeral. Soon after my partner left me. Then another relative died. Just been awful.

I’ve always performed well at interview but this time has numerous final interviews and not got the job. I really really wanted this one - they said I did very well at STAR and 2/3 areas of the presentation. They’d be happy to recruit me in future for another type of role.

I had 6 months of savings but in a month or so that’ll be gone and I’ll have to ask my parents for a loan which makes me feel mortified. I’ve gone from having a great life, job and partner to no life at all. I feel completely drained and gave everything to that last interview.

Have you applied for jobseeker or UC?

I’m due at the job centre tomorrow and worry I’ll just cry when they ask how the last two interview works out. I’ve been quite resilient up until now but at my wits end.

@LoremIpsumCici yes I’ve been on it all this time and ends next month

Hang in there. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes for a vacancy, they may already have someone in mind before even starting. For a recent role in my team, I’ve seen three candidates, all amazing, wish I could take all three. Try not to set your heart on any one role. Lots of luck

Job hunting is soul destroying and you are having it on top of tragedy and grieving.

You are doing your best.

This too will pass, there's the oerfect job round the corner

I'm so sorry for all you have been through, that sounds so tough.

Try to give yourself some grace if you can, after all that you are doing well to get to interviews and to keep applying for jobs. In the interim, can you claim UC? I know there is an element of pride there, I was brought up never to claim, and my parents were horrified when I told them I was claiming PIP (alongside working). But this is what UC is for, as a temporary support when things get tough.

You possibly have a case for unfair dismissal from your last role? But I get you have limited energy and that's a big fight to take on when you are struggling. Maybe give it some thought when you are feeling stronger.

I hope things improve for you x

@LoremIpsumCici I’ve also been seeing a therapist which has been great but will also need to give her up due to funds. It’s so hard.

@Bushmillsbabe I did seek advice on that but had been in the role under 2 years so had no case. Thank you x

I have been claiming for nearly 6 months and going to JC appointments. The money will stop next month although I assume there will be another type to claim. Will have to discuss.

You could try Cruse Bereavement.
https://www.cruse.org.uk/

They helped my DH a lot

@LoremIpsumCici thank you I’ll look into it.

part of the issue is my ex partner walking out has been a huge element so been a mix of bereavement and break up.

Im in a similar position, but have been job hunting longer and I’m a lot older. It’s utterly soul destroying, and must be even harder with everything else you’ve got going on.

my JSA has run out, but fortunately I've still got some redundancy money left, but of course that won’t last forever.

what do you do? I’ve picked up a couple of temp roles which although only NMW and nothing like my ‘proper’ job, but gave me a little bit of money and a little MH boost as well. Work is work after all.

keep going, something is out there for you.

OP, job hunting when you are under economic pressure is always tough. I was let go during Covid and it took 7 months to find another job.

You must have faith in yourself. You've had a perfectly successful career up to this point, and there is absolutely no reason why that won't continue. But the search takes it out of you. Rattles your foundations.

I found the best way to maintain momentum when it was looking bleakest was to job search 8-2pm, and then go for a walk or a run or gardening. Something that requires physical exertion and fresh air. Take your phone with you but get up and out. Allow yourself a break.

There is no shame in weeping all over the Job Centre staff. You won't be the first or the last, and it's what you pay your taxes for. They are there to support you.

Wishing you all the best xx

See if the job centre can refer you for talking therapies

Get your CV in with some decent recruitment agencies.

You are doing well at interview, that’s fabulous.

Keep your spirits up, after all you’ve faced, you’ve done so well.

Resilience, you have it in bucket loads

Think about with everything you've been through, how you can demonstrate resilience, at your next interview. It's a major strength.

I am so sorry OP, I had an awful interview a month ago and I sobbed when I got home.

It will come, keep going xxxx

I just wanted to say OP that your therapist may agree to a reduced rate for a short period of time until you get back on your feet - especially if you’ve been going to her for a while.

No harm in asking.

@HornyHornersPinkyWinky thank you. I just enquired and was approved for a 25% reduction until November. I’ll keep it going as long as I can.

After such a rough year I hoped one of these interviews would work out. I thought I surely was due a break. Worked so hard on the presentation. But no.

Hang in there - keep going. The market is really rough at the moment. It took me 2 years and about 6 final stage interviews, complete with presentation, before I finally got an offer I actually wanted to accept. You're obviously really good at what you do - try and believe in yourself. Something will come up soon. In the meantime, I'd just take a bar job or something to tide me over financially.

Have you looked at NHS or Civil Service jobs in your area ?

if you are getting interviews, you are close to getting a job very soon

There is no stigma to claiming benefits.
Because
They pay your National Insurance Contributions while you are not working, which go towards your state pension & other benefits

You can add onto your CV for jobs where you need to confirm gaps in your working life

Job centre can offer support & advice

Good luck

Things will get better for you

Sometimes it takes time

Are you on LinkedIn ? I have found my last job through there. What do you do ?