Right, bit of a an odd (and long…) post this. Been working in my current field (Change Management) for some time, until just over a year ago had worked in reasonably senior roles for a variety of companies across a number of sectors. Last year I set up my own limited company and had success with a couple of contracts. All good so far.

Came to the end of this September and left contract as the new director did not like using contractors. Since then I have obviously been looking for new roles and included contract and permanent in an attempt to maximise opportunities. I have applied for 80+ roles – the majority through jobs boards, although making contact with recruiters directly when I can get their details. I have been contacted by recruiters and used my network of recruiters, ex-colleagues etc… I am also publicly visible on LinkedIn and Monster.

Through recruiters and job boards I have had zero positive results. No interviews whatsoever. Nothing. Since last week I have secured three interviews through my network and had one of those so far. Not sure if I will be successful or not…

The thing is I am very surprised by this. I have never had an issue finding roles before. I used to get a couple of calls a week asking if I was open to new roles – which now happens much less frequently. I have a CV which has been positively reviewed professionally and by recruiters, senior colleagues etc… All of these people have been honest and I have made changes as a result.

So, why am I posting?
1). Does anyone have any pointers – mainly those about success in getting a role
2). I thought it might help to get it off my chest – be a bit cathartic
3). Despite doing everything I can to secure a new role and not having any fault in my contract ending – I feel very guilty. We can get by on my wife’s salary – but it won’t be a life offering many treats or opportunities. I also feel very bad about not being able to buy the kind of gifts we usually do for the children. I know this is not healthy but I cannot shake it off

So any thoughts, any contributions? At this point in time can I ask that maybe we leave the negative comments behind – I may be being weak but feel that I’m dealing myself enough of a kicking right now.

Can’t you get alternative low pay labour work like bar stuff etc for the interim to get the treats ?

I have tried Weeksy… I’ve been told when enquiring after that kind of work that I’m over qualified and over-experienced and will just leave when the right job comes up – so they are not interested. I honestly would do pretty much any job to bring money in… Shelf-stacking, front-line retail etc… before I started a career I had a variety of part time jobs that mean I’m not afraid of getting my hands dirty!

I’m afraid I have no knowledge, and to be honest no understanding, of the field you’re in, but if you are as good a bloke in the real world as you come across on here, you’ll be just fine. Appreciate that doesn’t help, but you implied you’re feeling a bit shit, so I thought it might be worth mentioning.

Cheers thegreatape – appreciated thank you.

Any recruitment specialist out there in the world of STW ready to share their secrets…?