Honestly, I'm having an incredibly difficult time. When I was first discharged I was turned away from jobs because I didn't have my degree, so I went to school and got my degree. Now I can't even find full time entry level work within my chosen field and never receive call backs. I've revamped my resume(s) so many times, had people look at them; all that. Nothing.
I freelance part-time for a major news corporation based in NYC, but the pay and hours are awful and borderline illegal (I may sound like I'm exaggerating but I'm not). I cannot sustain myself working there and constantly look for other jobs to no avail. They're going through such drastic changes right now that the chance of me being hired as staff are slim.
I'm stressed out all the time. I rehearse "Would you like fries with that?" in various tones and demeanor to better prepare myself for the future.
I really don't know what to do.
Answers
Thomas,
Finding a career position is not easy. Your training should reaffirm that you never give up. I know many people that worked as cabbies, waiters and waitresses and other physically demanding jobs while searching for the right career opportunity. It took me over a year to find the right job - would not have gotten the job if not for the network I developed in my search.
If you are not getting interviews, you need to reposition/remarket yourself. Be realistic in what you bring to a perspective employer. Build a network that includes people employed in your desired field. Look for a mentor in the industry. Many are willing to assist the new generation.
It is hard, but keep trying.
Ron Carvalho
Thomas: I have found that the military network is surprisingly helpful regardless of industry. That is to say that you probably will not get a job based upon a military connection, but you will probably get into some conversations. (I'm a guy with a liberal arts degree and infantry background, but the military angle got me into conversations with software and tech people.)
Whenever I deal with a new company I look them up on LinkedIn and look for any alumni from my school, former Marines, or just folks who were in the military. It's a point of connection upon which you can build, and it gets you into the conversation (sometimes the hardest part).
I hope that helps. Best of luck to you.
Another question is, if I'm failing to find entry level, livable wage positions in my desired industry, how can I utilize my experience from both my military background and professional backgrounds into an entirely different industry?
Hi Thomas, another thought is that you can look for advisors or veterans with your career interest by utilizing the " Visit Our Community" tab at the bottom of the landing page for AdvisorNet.
1) you can sort by veteran or advisor
2) you can sort by career, in your case, perhaps:
a) Arts and Entertainment
b) Marketing , Advertising and Communication
Consider identifying some people and reaching out to them directly for advice on their e mail. It's very possible there are people out that wanting to help, but just have not seen your posting yet.
As Always, Good Luck and Best Regards, Mike
Hi Thomas, since we have not been able to connect, a few thoughts for you to consider.
1) The link above is an easy to navigate site that allows you to explore different careers and it lists skills required , salary etc. It also has a section for veterans. It will help you answer your question " what options do I have"?
2) Transferable Skills -we all have a broad skill set that can span many careers. Google the term and you'll get an idea of what they are and create a list of your strengths. Use in connection with the website.
3) I see you had a mentor from ACP in the past. Consider reaching back out to that mentor for a review of your resume , specific to Arts and Entertainment career path as well as ask that mentor for contacts and leads.
4) Is there a friendly and trusted person at your current job to ask for leads as well as feedback on how you can network?
5) You need a LinkedIn profile--it's the go to source for all recruiters when they are searching for a candidate. Ask someone for advice if you need help setting it up. Also Google for advice on using LinkedIn
6) Make sure you have a list of your key accomplishments from both your military service and your recent work to demonstrate what a strong candidate you are for your interviews.
Hope this helps--GOOD LUCK
Best Regards, Mike
Are there any mentors that work in television or film or video or media production?
Hi Thomas, Good advice from Ron. I would like to offer to assist you in reviewing your current job search strategy and brainstorming ideas with you. While I have no direct leads for you, I might be able to help you refine your strategy for how you are positioning yourself. You must believe in yourself and while today's work might not be your goal, the sun comes up tomorrow on a new day. Yes, short term the work might be what you need to do to pay the bills, but never stop trying and dreaming. If you desire, e mail me your resume and we can arrange a time to talk early next week at a time of your convenience. Stay Strong, Stay Positive and Believe In Yourself. mtcottell55@gmail.com
Best Regards, Mike
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