From the WaPo: Companies won’t even look at resumes of the long-term unemployed.
So what do you put on your resume when your formal employment ended about a year ago? Most of us in this situation are doing what we can to bring in some money, most of it rather mundane and none of it related to our last position or our current aspirations.
Of course it doesn’t help that HR is involved in the hiring process. It is rather incredible how the current HR systems in use make it almost impossible to contact a human. For those of with some rather traditional (and still valuable) skills, it is often difficult to find an address for the firm to put on your cover letter.
I have been thinking about putting up one or more posts a day was I look for work. I’ve been reluctant to do so as I don’t want things to become maudlin should this process take much longer. But like much of what I’ve put up here, I like the record of my thoughts and what has caught my attention over the years. I think it helps my kids understand me better. I pretty certain it also helps my wife understand things too. Now she can just search the blog instead of wondering, “What the hell was that all about?”
[…] job market sucks. It is dysfunctional. See the post below on HR. My experience is just as that professor from Northeastern has found. If you’ve been […]
Mike,
Greetings. I couldn’t help but notice your topic here. I’ve been out of full time work for a while, but have been able to keep a busy with some freelance work.
I can totally relate to your thoughts on HR. HR is a joke. They aren’t about resources or helping out. They are just a machine.
I’ve had many experiences where I couldn’t talk to anyone, especially after cordially asking the operator or receptionist.
The normal routine is pretty much getting a form email that says, “we’ve got your resume, don’t call us, we’ll call you” or “although your resume was very impressive, we’ve decided to pursue a candidate who is more in line with our current needs.” I just got one yesterday from a museum that would not let me connect with anyone.
They can’t even acknowledge me by name in the email, just “Dear Applicant”. Make one feel real good. Push a button and get those replies out. I often wonder if these people even care about making a personal connection; just robots at a desk.
I’ve even tried responding to the form letter asking if they can tell me what, in anything, was missing on my credentials so I can work on it for future applications. They don’t respond.
I also agree that traditional skills are still valuable, although I question if today’s workforce even knows what they are.
Hang in there man. You are not alone.
Tell T and the kids I said hi.
Sincerely,
Chris Woodhouse
Yes, it is a horrible situation.
I kinda think I shouldn’t write much about it as it fast turns into a pity party, and there is nothing worse than having the stench of loser about you.
I wish you luck. It sounds, with the freelance bit, that you are least keeping somewhat busy. I’ve hit a bad patch on that front.
I’ve got a couple of ideas, but they won’t produce money in the next month. That is my problem, I feel immense pressure to get money in the door NOW.
I hope to make it to the ordination, but things don’t look good for travel expenses right now.
We need to keep in touch. Good to hear from you.