Can't get a bloody job!

[beyond]

Sorry peeps. just have to vent before I blow.

As some of you know, I was made redundant on 31st March 2007 after 28 years with the same company.

The only reason for that is because I was earning way to much for what I was doing and that no fault of my own They went through the whole process legally so there wasn't anything I could do.

Anyway, I have now applied for 55 jobs, I am down to seven and are still getting responses back saying that I missed the shortlist. I nearly got three jobs as I was down to two contenders, myself and one other out of heaps of applicants.

The recruitment agents are saying my CV is the best they have seen in a long time and that I come across as best of the best they have seen as well and yet.....??? :no:

I'm finding it bloody tough out there Thought I would have another job inside a fortnight but here I am nearly seven weeks and nothing, the breads running out and when I should be positive I'm starting to get down and depressed.
:crybaby:

In another couple of weeks I am going to be forced to stick my 14 up for sale, bugger it!!!
I love riding and love my black K6 but food on the table is what it's going to come down to. :weep:

Hope things turn around before then, but it's not looking too hot right now. Next stage will be selling the house and renting. Shit! :eek5:

Think I need a bit of this right now :grouphug:

[Paul in NZ]

What line of work are you looking for?

[skelstar]

Shit thats no good mate. I wish i could help.

I know when Im feeling shit I tend to go for a ride and feel 10x better when I get back...I'm guessing as time marches on this is becoming less and less of a solution for you.

Worst case if you sell your bike, is that you buy another when you get a job. Getting that job is more important than a bike eh? :shutup:

Chin up bro.

[MyGSXF]

:grouphug: for you.. from us..:yes:

[Al]

Feeling for you bro, I went through the same thing but have found employment 4 minutes from home!

I was earning too much and stirring too much in my last job, so "bye-bye" to me.
No more 1 hour commute and no more stress... Still earn the same, saving on petrol money as I walk to work/home for lunch, etc!

Good luck and hang in there. Take any job offered and from there you will progress till you are happy.

Al

[Mrs Busa Pete]

Sorry peeps. just have to vent before I blow.

As some of you know, I was made redundant on 31st March 2007 after 28 years with the same company.

The only reason for that is because I was earning way to much for what I was doing and that no fault of my own They went through the whole process legally so there wasn't anything I could do.

Anyway, I have now applied for 55 jobs, I am down to seven and are still getting responses back saying that I missed the shortlist. I nearly got three jobs as I was down to two contenders, myself and one other out of heaps of applicants.

The recruitment agents are saying my CV is the best they have seen in a long time and that I come across as best of the best they have seen as well and yet.....??? :no:

I'm finding it bloody tough out there Thought I would have another job inside a fortnight but here I am nearly seven weeks and nothing, the breads running out and when I should be positive I'm starting to get down and depressed.
:crybaby:

In another couple of weeks I am going to be forced to stick my 14 up for sale, bugger it!!!
I love riding and love my black K6 but food on the table is what it's going to come down to. :weep:

Hope things turn around before then, but it's not looking too hot right now. Next stage will be selling the house and renting. Shit! :eek5:

Think I need a bit of this right now :grouphug:

From us :grouphug:

[Fishy]

Not good Paul, hope something comes through for you soon :yes:

Sarah and I might come over for a coffee this weekend, I'll bring some snapper over for ya :niceone:

[The Pastor]

sucks dude,

Do you know why they don't want you to work?

Maybe you need to market youself better? Dress up fancier, smile more, die your hair if you are old.....

Hope you find work very soon, I know what it feels like to sell your bike to pay the bills :(

[Deviant Esq]

Mate... I know the feeling well. I've been looking for work since I got back from the UK, and haven't managed to find anything so far. Try not to get depressed about it, it isn't your fault! I know it's hard not to, it's so easy to start doubting yourself when you sit unemployed for a while. Sounds like you've been trying too hard and worrying about it too much. Maybe try to relax a little, you'll get one soon enough! :) Employers are probably intimidated by your CV... ;)

:grouphug:

[Bloody Mad Woman (BMW)]

My experience has always been something comes in at the very 11nth hour. Release the fear of losing your bike and home - accept ok if that happens I can deal with it. I use to worry like shit - all to no avail. Keep up your positive attitude. Take a job as a stepping stone to something better.

I know it is stressful and my thoughts are with you. Pat yourself on the back tho - for all your positive action.

[gijoe1313]

Ahh sorry to hear about that, keep being positive and it's hard, but try not to worry (worry never did anyone any good!) Hope something comes along your way and when it does, your previous worries will melt away. Just keep doing what you're doing - every no you get means you're coming closer to a yes!

Hang tough buddy, if you have to sell your ride do it, and look forward to when you can get another newer ride! :yes:

[beyond]

Thanks for the comments, the support, the green, the PM's. :)

You lot are brilliant.

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."

I can do just about anything and have tried many different fields over the years too.

Yep, been for the odd ride to clear my head and yeah it works wonders until you see your tyres wearing away quicker than you would like and then you have to be home to answer calls and can't hear the cellphone on the bike.

Yep, I dress up in the best suit, shirt and tie, new shoes, hair cut, shaved look so good the missus wants to jump me before I head out the door.

Yep, been to the 11th hour and then some many times before and you are right. BUT, stopping yourself from worrying when you aren't in control is a tricky thing aye? Worry is silly I know but hard to stop doing it too.


Thanks people. great bunch as always. :)

[Karma]

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."


My 2c...

Might be that you're not pandering to the market. The HR folks at the agencies will say they love your CV, but that's mainly because they're full of shit and can understand what you've written above.

Dunno really... when job hunting I try to strip it back to the basics;

"I'm a hard worker, I learn fast, I manage people well".

[Kornholio]

Ah sorry to hear that Paul, you'll come through no worries :)

We're thinking of ya here dude :)

[Drum]

My 2c...After reading your intro, I still don't know what you do.
Maybe it's a bit oblique?

All the best for finding a job.

[avgas]

Recruitment agencies are like a cross between cancer and lawyers.
Contact the companies you want to work with directly. I was applying 4am-8am everyday for 6 months to get a new job. All the jobs were all held up by bloody recuitment agencies. Some recruitment agencies were recieving 10 applications from me per day.
It took 3 interveiws with the recuitment agency, then 2 with the employer to get my current job.
Even still the recuitment agency refused to give me informations for the companies i DID want to work for - in the end i simply got the job which was highest on THEIR priority list.
And we all thing real-estate agents are bad.
Best of luck though mate.

[RT527]

Ok we need to ask this...


What do you want to do for a job , what do you want to be...it may be that you are striving too high in the job sector, perhaps Beyond you may need to look at a less exciting job prospect before finding that perfect placement.


Might have to get your hands dirty.

[Macktheknife]

Sorry to hear of your difficulty mate, keep your chin up and maybe even take a small step down the ladder to get yourself back in the door again, before working back up. Frustrating I know, but better than not getting in to start with.
Best of luck
Mack

[Toaster]

Couple thoughts....
Are you pitching too high?

Do you think your CV intimidates people who may find you after their job in a year, so they avoid you?

[Storm]

Best of luck scoring that next job.:D Carry on keeping the chin up mate :)

[jrandom]

Don't worry folks, Fish to the rescue.
I shall pay you current minimum wage, as of Friday the eighteenth of May.
I do need a new office chair, and you do need a job, capisce?
come into the office and i'll try you out.

[Swoop]

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

<STRIKE>"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."

I can do just about anything...</STRIKE>
Replaced with "I work fucking hard - unlike most of those other tossers you might be considering!!!

Mate, enough of the fucking bullshit which is "mission statement" "personal wonderfullness" CRAP!
Tell an employer who/what you are, what you have done, and leave it at that. That form of an introduction will get you a very nervous interview simply because of the fact that you will take over the business and put the pencil-dicked weenie out of a job.

Tell the cock-sucker that YOU will improve HIS company, whilst GUARANTEEING him/her MORE time on the golf course whilst working your nuts off for a pittance.




The GOOD thing is that this pissant gubbinment should be paying you an unemployment wage for this!!!
Serious. Don't sell the bike or anything else. "Can't get a job - I'm overqualified" = Wooooooohoooooo!!!!!

[The Pastor]

depends what kinda work hes in. I read the word "management" so that pretty well means "art of bullshiting" so maybe you need to increase the bullshit level by a factor of (0.345x^2)/n(years).

[NighthawkNZ]

i know how you feel... i have been made redundant twice and it sucked worse the second time round....

something will show up soon

[Ocean1]

Thanks for the comments, the support, the green, the PM's. :)

You lot are brilliant.

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

"Objective

<snip>

Thanks people. great bunch as always. :)

Purty, but I'm none the wiser. Production Mgr? What industry?

Don't think you're pitching yourself too high, I'll never see that a a fault anyway but perhaps your aim could be better. Are you focusing your CV for specific roles?

The support's good, freely given and nice to see, but perhaps some of the others could make some more practical suggestions if you give them a better idea of what you want.

Luck dude, don't let it get to you too much. Number the precious things in your life, bet the top of the list's all people, not things.

[yungatart]

Feel for you, mate!
Is self-employment an option?
Or could you go back to the places where you were short listed and ask what you could have done differently that would have resulted in you getting the job, rather than the other guy?
Try doorknocking with companies you think you may like to work for.
Best of luck and keep your chin up!:grouphug:

[MyGSXF]

Can't think off the top of my head what the statistics actually are.. :rolleyes: but I do know that the majority of jobs out there, are found by beating the streets & door knocking, or word of mouth!! :yes:

Also, have you looked at the 'seek' website?? www.seek.co.nz they have a lot of jobs listed.

Good luck.. something will arise.. have faith!! :niceone:

Jen :rockon:

[Ocean1]

Can't think off the top of my head what the statistics actually are.. :rolleyes: but I do know that the majority of jobs out there, are found by beating the streets, & word of mouth!! :yes:

Also, have you looked at the 'seek' website?? www.seek.co.nz they have a lot of jobs listed.

Good luck.. something will arise.. have faith!! :niceone:

Jen :rockon:

Over 40% I believe, (job's identified and acquired by direct personal aproach).
One or two friends are senior HR types, I rub that in their noses when they get a bit too precious about their trade, the fact that random chance is better at their job than they are.

[Maha]

take a small step down the ladder to get yourself back in the door again, before working back up.

Great line of thought there Mack, my old man was in the same predicament about 30 years ago, he had been in the Flooing trade since 1962 then wham all over...he went waterblasting at Kinlieth in the kilns....i remember him coming home and looking half dead...point is..he did it...he had to, no option. Beyond is not beyond saving....good luck Paul



Is self-employment an option?
Try doorknocking with companies you think you may like to work for.


Two very good option there Janet, doorknocking will always show an employer that you are the right person....not desperate. Well thats the way i see it anyway, it was the way i got into my trade 26 years ago

[surfer]

depends what kinda work hes in. I read the word "management" so that pretty well means "art of bullshiting" so maybe you need to increase the bullshit level by a factor of (0.345x^2)/n(years).

And include the part of the equation that shows productivity rising to the power of three whilst hours maintain a constant or preferably a slight reduction.

Good luck with the job hunting. It is tough and scary being without an income and having to pay bills.

[beyond]

Well, yet again some very good comments.

I agree with all the bullshit and terminology but one has to dance to the tune the piper plays at times.

I am preferably after a Management type role and have always had the attitude that you can do anything you want if you want it badly enough. I don't box what I am capable of doing and will give most things a go.

I was IT and Logistics Manager at my last job but also Warehouse Manager, Service and Spares Manager, Showroom Manager etc. Just about every job within an importing distribution environment.

Hard work? Never been afraid of it. In fact I used to get my hands dirty all the time even though it wasn't required.

While working fulltime I also worked at Multi level Marketing in my own time working most evenings and weekends. A lot of sales work and sales management in that game and I built a sizeable downline and had to set up a Ltd company in the end.

I have a decent size mortgage even though I downgraded my home last year so need a decent income.

I've been applying for jobs like Warehouse management, Sales Manager and Sales Reps, Operations Manager, Recruitment etc.

And yes, when missing out on a position have asked what I should have done or could have done. The answer has been you did everything right, your CV is perfect it came down to tosing a coin in the end. You couldn't have done anything more than you did.

And yes, I used to earn a heap and have certianly dropped my sights a lot lower than I though I would have to but thems the breaks :(

[The Pastor]

does getting made redundent make ur cv look like, they wanted to get rid of him, why do we want there seconds? :S

[beyond]

does getting made redundent make ur cv look like, they wanted to get rid of him, why do we want there seconds? :S

No, I don't even mention my redundancy in my CV.

[MD]

Sorry to hear your predicament Beyond. Hang in there and don't sell the bike too soon, not having it might bring on more depression. I thought your cv opening was a bit too flowery myself but as you said, horses for courses and all that.

[Mom]

Hard work? Never been afraid of it.

.....what I should have done or could have done. The answer has been you did everything right, your CV is perfect it came down to tosing a coin in the end. You couldn't have done anything more than you did.

And yes, I used to earn a heap and have certianly dropped my sights a lot lower than I though I would have to but thems the breaks :(

Hey mate, dont know you from a bar of soap but can identify with some of the things that you have said here.
I have some strong opinions about the recruitment industry that prevails at the moment in NZ, but wont bore you with them right now.

Your "hard work" comment is totally valid and a pox upon those that dont recognise it for what it is......

I read the opening statement on your CV that you posted..........and have to say, pardon? I understood the words but wonder if I would want to employ someone that speaks like that.......

FWIW I have been on the receiving end of the psychobabble that passes for a job interview these days, what a crock!.........and have my current job despite not having a CV at all.

Rest assured that there will be a job out there for you, perhaps not what you expected.

Good luck!

[Ocean1]

I was made redundant 4 years ago, saw it coming months out, I'd had enough of working to rules that made no practical sense anyway. I spent all that time and more looking for a business using toys I knew and using them well. There aren't many left in my field, not locally anyway and I couldn't move. In the end I grew a small business I'd owned for years into one big enough to support myself.

Don't know if you're in a position to deal with the variable income such "work" often entails but maybe you could do something similar.

Leme see... IT Mgr, Logistics Mgr, Warehouse Mgr, Service Mgr, Sales, importing, distribution marketing experience. Active outdoorsman by the look of it, into bikes... Can you find a passtime which uses most of those?

Would you hire yourelf dude?
If not why should anyone else?
If so how brave's your boss?

[beyond]

I was made redundant 4 years ago, saw it coming months out, I'd had enough of working to rules that made no practical sense anyway. I spent all that time and more looking for a business using toys I knew and using them well. There aren't many left in my field, not locally anyway and I couldn't move. In the end I grew a small business I'd owned for years into one big enough to support myself.

Don't know if you're in a position to deal with the variable income such "work" often entails but maybe you could do something similar.

Leme see... IT Mgr, Logistics Mgr, Warehouse Mgr, Service Mgr, Sales, importing, distribution marketing experience. Active outdoorsman by the look of it, into bikes... Can you find a passtime which uses most of those?

Would you hire yourelf dude?
If not why should anyone else?
If so how brave's your boss?


Well, I could manage a business running in other peoples motorbikes and test riding for Ducati, Suzuki and any other bike manufacturer. Would love to test ride motorbikes and write reviews but I think a shift to Europe would be required and then I get to join the 100's of others trying to do the same thing.

I'm working on some online stuff at the moment as well and hope to see something come of that.

Yeah, I would hire myself but then I would say that of course :)

[iwilde]

Sounds like you could be a real good realestate agent. With hard work and bending the truth a wee bit shit loads of money can be made. Never to late to re-train

[jafar]

Have you tried retraining for a different industry ?

[Mom]

Sounds like you could be a real good realestate agent. With hard work and bending the truth a wee bit shit loads of money can be made. Never to late to re-train

Lets hope Mrs Busa Pete does not read this....

[Edbear]

Lets hope Mrs Busa Pete does not read this....



Oh, I dunno... Knowing Wendy, could be fun...:dodge:

[beyond]

Have you tried retraining for a different industry ?

Yep, been retraining all my life. Went totally onto a different track at the old job once and did a course in Electronics Technician and Electrical service technician in order to install, trouble shoot and maintain photographic lab machines, high speed printers and digital equipment. As I said, I will give anything a go and have always believed that everything is possible except the impossible.

[beyond]

and er, even wrote a book once. A 700 page page volume intended to be a the first part of a Science Fiction trilogy.

[smokeyging]

Well, yet again some very good comments.

I agree with all the bullshit and terminology but one has to dance to the tune the piper plays at times.

I am preferably after a Management type role and have always had the attitude that you can do anything you want if you want it badly enough. I don't box what I am capable of doing and will give most things a go.

I was IT and Logistics Manager at my last job but also Warehouse Manager, Service and Spares Manager, Showroom Manager etc. Just about every job within an importing distribution environment.

Hard work? Never been afraid of it. In fact I used to get my hands dirty all the time even though it wasn't required.

While working fulltime I also worked at Multi level Marketing in my own time working most evenings and weekends. A lot of sales work and sales management in that game and I built a sizeable downline and had to set up a Ltd company in the end.

I have a decent size mortgage even though I downgraded my home last year so need a decent income.

I've been applying for jobs like Warehouse management, Sales Manager and Sales Reps, Operations Manager, Recruitment etc.

And yes, when missing out on a position have asked what I should have done or could have done. The answer has been you did everything right, your CV is perfect it came down to tosing a coin in the end. You couldn't have done anything more than you did.

And yes, I used to earn a heap and have certianly dropped my sights a lot lower than I though I would have to but thems the breaks :(

If you have held the same job down for 28 years then you must be ok.
Age has nothing to do with it, most bosses’ find us old farts more reliable and will usually hire us before the younger ones.
I’m surprised you have applied for 55 jobs and not landed one.
Usually guys who are made redundant are snapped up fairly fast,
I don’t know how many times through my life were I have heard boss’s bitching that they can’t find reliable staff.
I personally have always used ‘bush telegraph’, darn site more reliable, you know,’ if Jim says the guy is ok, then he must be ok’.
I have been out of work myself before, to the point were we had to dig into our savings, now, that pissed me off. I wasn’t a very happy camper I tell you, just about a divorce. I sure hope you get a job soon.

[oldrider]

Adage: If you always do what you have always done, you will always get what you have always got!

Traditional way of looking for a job is not working for you, change tack or don't expect any different results.

Have you tried looking at all the firms etc that use your skills and services then get in and find out as much as you can about them.

Look at them and find where they are in need of improvement then sell them a solution instead of trying to get them to give you a job!

Look at all the best firms because they will be the ones most likely to be interested in "your solutions".

Don't sell yourself cheap either, be sure to tell "them" what your solution is worth to them.

Put your self in their position, they don't want to hire anyone really but they "do" want solutions to their problems and sometimes they don't even know they have any, it's up to you to find them, tell them about it and sell your plan.

You are not doing anything else and looking for jobs is not working, what have you got to loose, go for it.

Ask your self, what is your point of difference, when you know, sell it to someone who needs it.

Work hard and good luck. Hungry fighters fight best. :yes: Cheers John.

[Motu]

I was unemployed for a day.Walked out of my business on the friday,and on the monday walked into a local business....talked to the owner for 2 hours about everything but a job.....we settled on pay and he said I could start anytime,so started a month later.Career wise some might say it's not a forward step,and although I've run my own business and other peoples for over 20 years,I'm not managment material.I prefer to do the job myself rather than tell other people how to do it for me.I don't consider myself very employable and have no CV.....no problems,just walked into the job I decided I wanted.I suspect you are selling yourself,and aiming too high.Just get a job,cut the undecypherable babble.....talk the real talk man.

[RT527]

Haha I know ring telecom and tell them you know how to screw the Govt .

Bet they give you a job, In six months when they ask you how to Screw the govt, just tell em that first you ask a politician for a date, then you wine and dine , then you take em home .....Whallah 1 times govt screwed.

[_Gina_]

How strong is your Sales Management exposure?
Do you happen to have an in-depth understanding of the HCV (heavy comm. vehicle) industry?
Consider yourself to have a bit of mongrel in you?

Couple of jobs available where I work, but looking for specific skills.....


G

[Kflasher]

Thanks for the comments, the support, the green, the PM's. :)

You lot are brilliant.

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."

I can do just about anything and have tried many different fields over the years too.

PM sent for you to consider

[R6_kid]

"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."

too many nice words... walk in there with a gun... point it and say "im the f*cking man, i get the job or you die... capiche!"

ok, maybe not but you're a relatively good looking guy (coming from another 100% straight dude)... maybe try pimping for a bit, or you could be a man ho and keep all the money for yourself!

Hope something comes to fruition soon mate, seems that the good guys always have to work the hard yards to get where they should be.

[TONO]

To answer the questions and comments I'll nick the opening paragraph off my CV:

"Objective

To harness and channel extensive work and life experience into providing a key management role to any business. My aim is to effectively enhance functionality and business work practices with the goal being to ultimately increase business productivity. This is to be achieved through a hands on management style, driven by a strong and passionate work ethic, tempered by a sensitive nature and natural human empathy."

I can do just about anything and have tried many different fields over the years too.




Sorry to hear the news about your situation mate.
You appear to have a back ground similar to mine....been in middle management all my life.
I to have just been made redundant for the 2nd time in 3 years. Last time it took me 7 months to find a job.
Thing is don't let it get you down, it is just life just deal with it the best you can that's all you can do, some thing will turn up it always does.
At present I am driving a truck and putting up road signs for my old company for $14/hr( I used to supervise these guys) bit different to my past salaries I can tell you but it keeps food on the table and I can still ride the bike.
Mind you I don't have a mortgage or any debts.
Stay positive mate your a cool dude and it will work out I am sure.

Cheers
TC

[peasea]

You never know what'll turn up, usually when you're not looking for it or when you least expect it. I got a way-cruisy job (sure, it has it's moments of stress, but it's pretty cool really) just up the road from home nearly five years ago.

I do 20 hrs there and make the rest up from home. Been basically self employed since 1989 except for that one permanent part time job.

The two scariest days of my life were the day I opened the door of my own business and then the day I closed it again nine years later. I went from spanner man to pen pusher pretty much overnight; I wasn't happy with what I was doing under cars and I took property magnate Bob Jones's words to heart....."If you don't like your circumstances, change them". I did that and I'll never forget Bob's words. For more work I also did a lot of 'cold-calling'. No vacancy advertised but you never know..........I picked up heaps that way....

You'll get something mate, good people are never out of work for long.

[Biff]

Gday mate, sorry to hear of your troubles.

For what it's worth - here's my 2c:

In-line with other peeps recommendations here - the intro you kindly posted is superfluous waffle, and says nothing really about you, other than you're well-read, and you're probably related to Hitcher.

I've employed dozens of managers over the years, and to be honest I'd reject your CV straight away, without getting past the intro.

Be cogent, concise, and talk proper English, none of this 'helicopter view' shite. You come accross as somewhat arrogant, and a waffler, which I'm sure you're not in real life, and you'll probably scare off many potential employers due to the vague word-smithery in your CV.

Let your experience do the talking, and ignore almost everything recruitment consultants tell you.

Good luck.

[Mole_C]

Cut all the waffle out of your CV. The people reading them will have read heaps of them just like it and think your just another one of the people trying to make yourself sound fancy.

They are just looking for experience and qualities. None of which includes making things long winded and make no sense.

Just figure out what they are looking for, say it in plain english and put in your history to back it up.

Dedication to a company for 28 years with a huge range of positions, gaining a greater overview of how all the processes fit together should be put far ahead of waffle.

[beyond]

Thanks for the constructive criticism.
Yeah, better to meet the Employers expectations head on than get fluffy with the recruiters :)

This any better:

Objective

As the Employer, you will no doubt want to hire a suitable candidate who will fit in with your Company’s work ethic and be able to get along with your current staff.
Just as important is the fact that you will want somebody who will at least help to maintain but preferably improve your current annual profit levels.

I want to make sure that you achieve these aims. With twenty eight years of experience in the same company, covering just about every role and pushing far beyond my own comfort levels to gain an overview of how all processes fit together, I sincerely believe that my appointment will benefit you greatly.

[Ocean1]

Little better, think it’s still pitched at HR level. That might get you an interview but to get further you need specifics. The manager who will make the decision won’t read far into an intro to find facts, he’ll bin it and move on. Brief personal statement, work history, conclusion. End.

It's worth getting your hands on a JD (or any other bit of information about the company) before you submit your CV, then spend all day lining up their wish-list with your experience and qualifications.

EG:
"Applicant should have experience in negotiation and management of service and supply contracts...."

I am experienced with all aspects of technical service delivery through over ten years in several technical rolls with **** Ltd. and extensive involvement with Operations Management of **** Ltd. supplying **** services to the **** industry. Experienced in the development and management of technical support services through my roles as **** with **** Ltd where I was responsible for securing and managing service contracts throughout New Zealand.

If you can match 80% of your experience to their requirements you’ve got one foot under the desk before you even get to an interview.

Luck dude.

[BNZ]

I can do just about anything and have tried many different fields over the years too.



Hey mate,

Im too lazy to read the whole thread but...

Are you tied to NZ. Have you "out of curiosity" browsed or applied for jobs abroad? Just a thought.

Best of luck.

[Meanie]

Hi Dude
I have my own business but if i had to shut shop i would work at MDs or push a broom in a supermarket if i had to to keep my family home
I have considered at times to throw it all in and mow lawns to get away from the stress This is what makes humans so dam clever we Adapt So adapt for a while untill something better comes along, you may enjoy being a slob for a bit and itll keep food on the table
Good luck

[Zuki Bandit]

Good luck mate, something will come up. Just stay positive.:yes:

[K6K]

Little better, think it’s still pitched at HR level. That might get you an interview but to get further you need specifics. The manager who will make the decision won’t read far into an intro to find facts, he’ll bin it and move on. Brief personal statement, work history, conclusion. End.

It's worth getting your hands on a JD (or any other bit of information about the company) before you submit your CV, then spend all day lining up their wish-list with your experience and qualifications.

EG:
"Applicant should have experience in negotiation and management of service and supply contracts...."

I am experienced with all aspects of technical service delivery through over ten years in several technical rolls with **** Ltd. and extensive involvement with Operations Management of **** Ltd. supplying **** services to the **** industry. Experienced in the development and management of technical support services through my roles as **** with **** Ltd where I was responsible for securing and managing service contracts throughout New Zealand.

If you can match 80% of your experience to their requirements you’ve got one foot under the desk before you even get to an interview.

Luck dude.

The above is good advice. When dealing with HR or direct to the company do your research and tailor your CV. When they read it they will check off their wish list easier if the appropriate points are emphasized. You don't have to bullshit too much, your level of experience should have enough breadth to cover most areas if you are looking at the right jobs. Getting to the interview stage can be the hardest part. If you do put forward your general CV (through a recruitment agent for example) keep your opening statement to the point and about you. For example:
In work and play my goal is always to improve any task or process I do. This means I constantly strive to find the best way to tackle any problem. That statement says "I don't sit on my arse, I work hard and smart"
What you do and what your are with a little bit of what you want from a company. What you can give should be in your job history.
Good luck dude.

[timorang]

Hi Beyond, for my sins I have ended up working in senior corporate HR positions, including my current role. Previous postings have provided you with some very good and honest advice regarding the style in which you write and how this projects to the reader of your CV. A couple of points:

Firstly as stated by others you need to sharpen your CV - it is a real turn off wading thru the BS to get to the stuff that will determine whether you get to the next stage (an interview). In fact you may be written off before they get to the good bits. I recommend you redo your CV and focus solely on your KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and EXPERIENCE (KSE's). You should taylor it to honestly match those attributes being sought.

Secondly you should have a cover letter accompany your CV. This definately needs to be written specifically for the job you are applying for. Again - NO BS. Read their ad carefully and understand their requirements. Write the letter that reflects back to them this understanding and briefly state your relevant KSE's. If you can demonstrate that you have researched their company. If you are applying for a job that may appear to be a step down or sideways from what you have done, show some humility, let them know that this is a change you welcome and are ready for and that they will not be dissappointed.

If you do 1 and 2 above I am confident your interview hit rate will increase, particularly for those jobs that you are highly relevant for.

Thirdly, if you are getting in the door and having interviews but not landing anything then you may have to face the fact that your face to face interview style is failing you. They have already shown interest in your KSE's so it is a 'cultural fit' or personality style that you are projecting that is stopping you from proceeding (you can trash all the nice reasons they provide for not being offered the job - it will be crap). There will be something that they saw that put them off. Nervousness can be excused - perhaps you had not researched their job or business, perhaps you were too cocky or non specific in your examples or when talking about your experience. Maybe you did not explain well why you left your last employment and why you want this job....

Also are your referees being contacted? If not then you have failed at the interview. If they are then they are not supporting you and you may need to review who you provide.

It is a process and you need to have each step working properly.

Anyway feel free to PM me if you would like me to review your CV or to discuss or prepare for an interview.

[Oakie]

This any better:
Objective

As the Employer, you will no doubt want to hire a suitable candidate who will fit in with your Company’s work ethic and be able to get along with your current staff.
Just as important is the fact that you will want somebody who will at least help to maintain but preferably improve your current annual profit levels.

I want to make sure that you achieve these aims. With twenty eight years of experience in the same company, covering just about every role and pushing far beyond my own comfort levels to gain an overview of how all processes fit together, I sincerely believe that my appointment will benefit you greatly.

First let me say it's good to be able to be honest with a guy who obviously takes constructive advice well. It also makes it easier to be brutally honest in the hope that you won't be offended. Here goes:

As a recruiter I don't like to be told what I want which you did twice in the first paragraph (as I highlighted).
'28 years experience' could be taken as indicating someone without the drive to move on to new pastures. Use it as a 'loyalty' thing.
To say you believe your employment will benefit me greatly could be taken as an implied criticism of our existing set up or might indicate someone who thinks the sun shines out of their own bum.

My version would read:
"I am a hard-working and amiable person and I'm sure this will allow me to fit in with your Company’s work ethic and be able to get along with your current staff.

I am a loyal employee as my 28 years with my previous employer will demonstrate. I covered just about every role and made sure I understood how all the processes fitted together with the over-riding goal of doing my bit to improve our current annual profit levels. I would bring this same work style to your company if successful with my application."

Just keep working at it Beyond and good things will happen. Feel free to PM me if you want. My sincere good luck with it all.

[Biff]

Hi Beyond, for my sins I have ended up working in senior corporate HR positions, including my current role. Previous postings have provided you with some very good and honest advice regarding the style in which you write and how this projects to the reader of your CV. A couple of points.......


Now here's a man that knows about what he speaketh. And he's a senior one .

[timorang]

Now here's a man that knows about what he speaketh. And he's a senior one .

Cheeky bugger...

[Conquiztador]

I employ staff all the time so I hope I can be of some help:

There is heaps of good advice in this thread and some pro's have offered you their support.

Your CV serves only one purpose: To get the interview, after that you are on your own.

You need to have a one page intro letter that is specific for the position you are applying for. Read the job description and in your intro letter you should answer the main requirements. Don't worry if you repeat your self in the CV.

In the CV you need to list your achievements in your jobs. Be specific. Numbers are best. Don't do the "I increased productivity". Do the: "As a direct result of ..... I managed to increase the productivityby 47%" Also stuff like "By implementing ....... I was able to produce cost savings of 23% totalling $30,000 per annum" Make sure you are able to discuss this and perhaps produce proof at the interview.

To the interview take things you have produced at the job. Reports, newsletters, brochures, articles.

Take notes at the interview. It impresses. Always ask questions. Intelligent ones about the company. Do not ask questions they have problems answering!!

And lastly, stroke their egos, company ego AND personal ego's.

Make sure you have provided a minimum of 3 references from resent jobs. And contact them before the interview so they know what to say!!!

Then after the interview send them a letter thanking them for the opportunity.

Remember: You are a salesman selling your self.

Good Luck.

[beyond]

Thanks again people.
Lots of good pointers and yes I am aware of many of them. I am having no problems in the interviews and have been short listed down to two on several occassions. A few weeks ago one company was tossing up between myself and one other on a fairly high level job. This went on for two and half weeks.
They had more interviews, rung my old job twice and talked for ages, profiled me then had the profiler ring me again and spend half an hour on the phone with me, then had so much trouble deciding between us they tossed a coin!

Murphy must have been sitting on my shoulder that day as I was sure I had that in the bag.

I agree on my rewrite intro and actually changed it soon after posting it up here :)

[kinger]

Firstly mate, congratulations on the job.
Secondly, do you mind if I slightly hijack your thread and pick a few brains?

No, okay. I'm an unlicensed aircraft maintenance engineer, of twenty plus years, and have just arrived in Taupo.
My cv is completely aircraft biased, and I've got absolutely no idea on a typical NZ cv layout.
I've been subcontracting myself through my own limited company for the last ten years or so, so my current one is four pages long, with a brief description of my duties, aircraft type, and location.
There's no work for me at the airport just now, and I can't afford the expense of pushing for my NZCAA ticket, so am currently door knocking for anything I think I can do. Unfortunately, like most Euro sheeties, we don't weld, so most engineering firms are a straight away "thanks, but no."
Could someone send me a recommended format of a typical cv layout for a hands on mechanic so I can at least get the chance of a face to face.
Thanks chaps,
Steve.

[beyond]

Hiya Steve,

She's pretty tough out there alright but if you stay positive and proactive you will pull through. Some days you get abit down, try not to. It's way easier to say than do.

Oh, you can hijack my thread but you will get a whole lot more responses if you start your own new thread asmany people will consider this one now closed.

Head it up with: Help needed with my CV or something similar.
People on here are great and very willing to help where needed. :)

Cheers
Paul

[timorang]

Firstly mate, congratulations on the job.
Secondly, do you mind if I slightly hijack your thread and pick a few brains?

No, okay. I'm an unlicensed aircraft maintenance engineer, of twenty plus years, and have just arrived in Taupo.
My cv is completely aircraft biased, and I've got absolutely no idea on a typical NZ cv layout.
I've been subcontracting myself through my own limited company for the last ten years or so, so my current one is four pages long, with a brief description of my duties, aircraft type, and location.
There's no work for me at the airport just now, and I can't afford the expense of pushing for my NZCAA ticket, so am currently door knocking for anything I think I can do. Unfortunately, like most Euro sheeties, we don't weld, so most engineering firms are a straight away "thanks, but no."
Could someone send me a recommended format of a typical cv layout for a hands on mechanic so I can at least get the chance of a face to face.
Thanks chaps,
Steve.

Are you set on Taupo, or are other locations up for consideration?

[kinger]

We're set on Taupo, for a variey of reasons, some of which don't make sense to anyone but us it seems.
Have now gained purposeful employment, so thanks guys.
It's not gonna make us rich, but I'm 40, now got a house with no mortgage, the wife can now work if she chooses to.
I'm not really that bothered wether I work on planes, it just seems a shame to not be using twentyodd years of highly regarded permanent employment history (never been out of work), but hey-ho, there's a lot less pressure in my day job now, no-one's gonna die if I get it wrong.
My new employer did tell me that maybe I was an arse for not mentioning I'd been running my own company as Ltd Co contractor for the last ten years, but stuff it, he seems a cool and genuine man, I wouldn't mess him about now, there's more to life than money, eh?

[beyond]

Good to hear you are sorted now mate :)
Nothing worse having no money coming in cos the bills don't stop at the same time do they?

Good one mate. :yes:

[Rosco]

Hey dude ... if you are a bike mechanic or reasonably competent, I know of someone who needs help URGENTLY ... call me - Ross 021 311 117 ..