Trying times

Annette M Crespin

November 9,2020 at 11:43PM UTC

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When my husband and I lost our jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic I just recently started applying for some part time and PRN positions in our area. Unfortunately, I’ve received more rejection emails and have had no offers for an interview. Part of the reason is some companies have freezes on their positions and another is my age, I’m 62. I’ve been a secretary since I was 19, owned a janitorial business for a few years before closing it down due to a extreme family health emergency. All I want to do is work. A p/t or PRN receptionist position would be fine, but now a janitorial position would be very risky. How ever you pray/meditate please send up some prayers/positive vibes for us. I need a job very soon. I’m very good at what I do but need work close to where we live. Thanks y’all! Never shared anything like this before.

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don burrowsNovember 10,2020 at 2:26AM UTC
You have a varied background that I believe, your age notwithstanding, would be of interest to potential employers. That said, if you are using the traditional, two-page, reverse-chronological, dates-and-duties resume that looks like everyone else's, you are blending in like spaghetti and giving decision-makers no reason to select YOUR RESUME from the other couple of hundred in the pile. Your resume needs to BE THE MEATBALL, not the spaghetti. For 18 years, I was an in-house recruiter for some Fortune 500 biggies and I know what I'm talking about. May I suggest you consider the 12 examples this site - https://topcandidateresumes.com/successes/ - and see how to win interviews as the top candidate (the Meatball) each time you apply. Good luck
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Dr. Sarah RatekinNovember 10,2020 at 3:37AM UTC
Have you considered something like becoming a Virtual Assistant? It feels like a rapidly growing industry and I think it would play to the skills you've listed here quite nicely
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Jamie KlingmanNovember 10,2020 at 9:49PM UTC
Hi! I have found that many small businesses don't know that they need help till they are asked...if you're comfortable, reaching out to any of your contacts to let them know you're willing to be flexible may help!
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Julia MavrodinNovember 11,2020 at 5:29PM UTC
Along with the comments above, might I suggest trying for some Customer Service roles - with holiday coming up, you are likely to be considered for these virtually. Try to sign up with some staffing agencies: Aquent, 24/7, Randstad. Highlight any service roles you've had, as that could be a good angle rather than secretarial/office work.
Good luck!
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Arika LawrenceNovember 11,2020 at 6:21PM UTC
Hi Annette -- Let me first acknowledge that I am totally sending you positive vibes and good energy your way. This too shall pass! While the job market has been extremely challenging for us all, I do believe you have an abundant skillset and wisdom that will help you land your next gig. As Sarah and Julia said, I totally agree with seeking out a temp agency or considering the virtual assistant route as options (based on your professional background). I also think you should look at seasonal work, too!! Customer service roles are popping up overnight since everyone is home now; there is great need for workers in this market. I'm thinking big box retailers that have an e-commerce platform who need the help most like Amazon, Target, Walmart, etc. Also, you might want to check out the non-profits industry, check job boards like Idealist.org. Sometimes when we are floating in between blessings, we can keep ourselves busy by giving back in volunteering while also using it as a stepping stone to build new skills for our next job. Don't forget t keep networking, too!! All is not lost! Keep the faith, Annette. Wishing you the very best of luck in your search.
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Ashley LemNovember 12,2020 at 10:47PM UTC
I agree that it would be good to check for some customer service positions or see if working with a staffing agency helps generate some leads. I wish you so much luck in your search and hope you are able to find something soon!
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