Anyone interested in a 'looking for work' support thread?

[BillMurrey]

I've had a few months off work, but am now ready to start looking for something else. However it's been 15 years since I last filled in an application form or had an interview so I'm a little rusty to say the least.

I wondered that if anyone else is looking for a job we could help each other out with strange application questions, cv formats and (hopefully) interview prep.

I'm aiming for at least 3 applications a week. I submitted one yesterday, but fear I made a bit of a pigs ear of it, and have another one to check over and submit today.

The one yesterday was a really interesting/challenging job that I am not really experienced enough for, but feel I could definitely wing it; the money and hours were great. The one today is school hours, and not difficult but the pay is less than living wage.

Anyway, it'd be good to have some buddies along the way

Oh. My. God.

Heard back from the one back in November and got offered the job AND had an interview this morning and got that one offered this afternoon! Two in one day, like bloody buses!!

I really wanted the first one but also loved the company I interviewed with today. But the first one is 5k more so it's boiled down to that and I'm happy. Much luck to the rest of you

shakey huge congratulations. Delighted for you. When will you start?

Expecting start date and paperwork through post. In a twist of events, the other company has offered more money. Oh my. Quandry. Nice quandary I know but gahhhhhh!!!

Well done Shakey. Hope it goes well.

The one thing that really boils my pee is that no-one gets back, so you don't know how you've done.

How hard can sending out a brief email be? Ffs.

Had 3 interviews, all 3 of them I've had to chase them to find out I hadn't got it which is disgraceful given I (and others) had taken the time to attend/complete tasks etc.

Companies saying that if you haven't heard after 21 days then you're not successful irritate me somewhat given they often recruit via a website which would allow them to simply send out a mass email to people they're not interviewing but I guess they can afford not to give a shit given the number of applications they're getting.

For all 3*

Wow shakey that's amazing congratulations can't deny I am hugely jealous had my interview today, fingers crossed

Am being made redundant but can't face looking for all and any work in the current recession, with all available jobs paying v little and with millions after them. So am making plans to go self-employed.

Welcome all.

Shakey Well done! - Gives me hope.

I haven't done any looking over Christmas, but will get back on it on the 4th Jan when the kids go back.

Good hunting everyone.

I'm in! Congrats to Shakey and good luck to everyone else.

I'm still temping, but will resume the perm job search next week. Seen a few things I fancy applying for. I have an interview lined up for a long term temp role, but can't get the time off for it as start a new temp contract a couple of days before. Ah well, bird in the hand and all that.

I'm also starting a work related course which should open up a few more options. I'm stupidly excited about starting. I'm going to treat myself to a new pencil case.

It's been hard, but on the positive side I've gained additional skills whilst temping and discovered I love certain areas I'd never have considered. One area may lead to a career change, might start a thread about that at some point.

Count me in!

Looking for work since September. Not even a hint of an interview has come my way :(

I have a degree (graduated last year) but no experience other than in retail so I'm pretty much under qualified for everything!

Well, I have been offered a job! Money is rubbish but hours are fab, school hours and term-time only. It's just 10 hours a week which fits in for me at the moment and they seemed lovely people. Just have to get my head round only earning a third of what I used to.

Mixed feelings.

Any developments for anyone else?

I quit working in 2004 with the birth of my first child. I started looking for work again last April. I have finally received my first job offer.

My stats:
I sent out 140 CVs. Mostly, I didn't even get rejection letters.

I have interviewed with four different organisations.

As I kept plugging away at it, I got better at understanding how the job market is working at the moment and my place in it.

I found these websites very useful. I got information and tips about improving my CV etc. At first I thought I knew what I was doing and didn't need them, but after over 80 CVs sent and no response, I had to admit that I needed to change.

womenreturners.com

www.shesback.co.uk

candidates.capabilityjane.com

The job I have found is far from perfect but it's a start. The commute is horrendous (half way round the M25!), is a temporary contract to start out with, and I am not even sure that I am a good fit! I think I need to grab it with both hands though.

Good luck to everyone!