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For those job hunting, how are you feeling about the job market and what have you experienced so far?
Anonymous
01/06/22 at 9:34PM UTC (Edited)
I've been job hunting for about 5 years while working in a toxic workplace.
I have a master's degree, and the people who get the jobs I've applied for all have a 2nd masters or a Ph.D. in a second area. I only apply for jobs that don't require this, so I'm extremely frustrated. I'm 63, and starting on a new degree would be a terrible financial move at this point, and I would probably also be up against ageism (which is probably already a factor). The last two jobs I interviewed for were taken by people who had their "extra" degrees before starting on the master's that I've earned, and they got their jobs the year the M.A. was awarded -- one even started working before her official graduation date! And at least 30 years younger than me, too, of course.
At 63, I'm too young to retire and apparently too old to hire.
Anonymous
01/04/22 at 6:54PM UTC
I have experienced a high demand for very specialized skillsets that are more specific and focused. I see more narrow Job descriptions and a shying away from general blanket descriptions.
Joanna GiordanoHBO HR experience. Resume/Job & Health coach.
358
05/02/22 at 8:46PM UTC
people love a master, but they often get more out of jack of all trades. I think it can be fruitful to frame yourself as the master, even if you like to be the jack.
Mrs. Z’BookerBest Writer in Houston
34
01/04/22 at 4:26PM UTC
I wish I had an answer for you. I have been going around in circles doing customer service jobs. I think I am ready to move on to something else. You know, see if my skills are transferable. I am good at editing, proofreading, and writing. I honestly think I am ready to move on past the call centers.
Joanna GiordanoHBO HR experience. Resume/Job & Health coach.
358
05/02/22 at 8:47PM UTC
HIGHLY transferrable! Try paraphrasing your title when applying to slightly different roles. This can prevent the prejudgment.
Anonymous
01/06/22 at 9:35PM UTC
I once knew someone who preferred people with customer service experience -- because your boss is a customer, and your coworkers are internal customers.
Megan Therese Larsen
38
01/06/22 at 5:13PM UTC
Your skills in customer service are highly transferable. You are able to manage difficult people in a professional manner, understand and interpret information, and decide best course of action to address the issue. You are able to think on your feet. All soft skills required to be successful in hospitality or an office position. You may have to start at a receptionist or office clerk, but you should be able to work your way up to office manager, or EA from that position. Get in the door, and then volunteer to create the office newsletter, or proof read for marketing. Receptionists have a ton of down time so there is plenty you can do to show your worth while working the front desk. Good luck!
Joanna GiordanoHBO HR experience. Resume/Job & Health coach.
358
05/02/22 at 8:47PM UTC
Hospitality is a great suggestion!
