I didn’t even get an interview - feeling sorry for myself 😢

[StripeyBalloon]

I recently applied for an entry level job in the creative industry. It was a job I was excited about and the hours would have been ideal. The job was mainly admin and general assistance with events and correspondence. I am absolutely gutted that I didn’t even make the interview stage, I’m not young and have 20 years transferable relevant experience and a proven passion for the profession. Apparently they received a record number of applications for the role - the most they have ever received for a job. I’m still gutted that in my 40s I can’t even get an interview for an entry level job - feeling sorry for myself but I’ll be fine lol.

How many applicants are generally interviewed for these types of roles? I think it’s likely that they had hundreds and hundreds of people applying. It’s depressing!

You’re right - hundreds upon hundreds I’m afraid. Over-qualification is also a huge thing which may have impacted you too. Don’t take it too personally (or try not to). I work in a lucrative industry and when we advertise entry level roles we have upwards of 300 apps per vacancy, most are then screened by AI and we’ll pick a few to interview.

Times have changed from finding the absolute best person for the role - realistically there are many people out there who can do what needs doing, so it’s not a reflection on you for ‘failing’ at all. It’s just a numbers game x

Years ago I went for an interview and asked the bloke how they’d narrowed it down once he mentioned how many applicants they’d had ! He said he picked 12 random envelopes and interviewed them. He’d never even opened the other envelopes. Surprisingly I got offered the job but I’d already interviewed successfully elsewhere.

If I were you I wouldn't pitch at an entry level role with that amount of experience unless you're looking for it for work life balance. A decent recruiter or employer are now starting to see the value in a non-linear career path. Unless it's super niche and needs really specific skills, smart employers do appreciate diversity in experience. Managerial roles aren't nearly as over saturated for applicants as entry level roles if you'd be happy to do that kind of role. If it's a numbers game honestly you'd be better off pitching a little higher than entry and see what happens imo

This is uncannily similar to me today. I wonder if we went for same job in C?

Ooh I wonder! Sorry you didn’t get an interview either, it sucks but hopefully you’ll find something perfect for you soon

Wow! That’s crazy!