I have owned a dance studio for over 12 years. I am currently pregnant, but have been looking for employment for the last year. Ideally part-time because I still teach in the evenings.
The pandemic hit my business super hard, its been slowly deflating since 2020, and I need to find employment if I want any chance of owning my own home.
I have put off family plans for 4 years because of this, and being 33 I just didn't want to wait any longer to be a mum. And being pregnant is going to impact my ability to teach as I get further along so I need some supplemental income.
And to be completely honest, I miss working as part of employment, pandemic decimated my instructor base and because business is slow I can't rebuild a team as I can't guarantee income or clients. Its never been this bad. Cost of living really making people have to choose between a lot.
I just have 0 luck applying for anything. I have previous experience in admin, I have run a successful business for over 12 years, I have a law degree (no interest in a law based job, its not for me).
I want and need something part-time and local. I've tried admin, basic retail, sports clubs, fitness club jobs but nothing ever seems to bite. I know the job market is competitive right now, but its so deflating never even being given an opportunity to interview where I would shine brightest.
Has anyone gone from self-employed to employed? What tips do you have for getting through to interview stage? I know I can seem over-qualified for some of these low level jobs, but I don't think I have the mental strength for anything more. Ive thought about retraining in childcare to do part-time, is this worth it?
Would love to hear some personal experiences and tips. Thank you