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Why can't I get a job?

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Contributed by: Pat Travers on 7/13/2007

As the Branch Manager of PRIDE Staffing Services (A Resolve Staffing Company), I often hear "Why can't I get a job"? The answer to this question may be answered in the way you applied for the job, interviewed for the job, or your past work history.

These are some of the main reasons that people don't get (or keep) jobs:

1. You blew it during the application process
It seems that many people don't give much thought to how important the application proccess it. Yes, it's a pain because you have to fill out the application and ALL that paperwork, but you make this process work to your advantage by keeping the following in mind:

* Come to pick up or fill out your application dressed as though you were going to go to work that day. When you come into a business dressed inappropriately it sends a message to the prospective employer that you are filling out the application as an afterthought. It's important to create the impression that you are serious about finding a job. Also make sure your personal hygiene as been attended to before going to fill out an application. If you smell bad or appear unwashed you won't get an interview.

* Come prepared to fill out an application: Bring your own pen. This is a small thing, but it speaks volumes as to how serious you are as an applicant. Also, make sure that you have the names, addresses and telephone number of past employers to fill out the application completely.

* Don't bring famiy members, friends or children with you. Not even to just pick up an application. This isn't a family outing, it's a job search. Also, if someone gives you a ride to the business, ask them to park away from the building; particularly if they are playing very loud music in the car.

* Don't complain about filling out the application. This could label you as a "whiner" before you even have the papework filled out. Chances are you won't get called back for an interview.

2. You blew it during the interview
If you are called for an interview after submitting your application it only means that you have the qualifications for the position. It doesn't necessarily mean that you have the job sewed up. Watch out for these mistakes:

* Don't be negative! Many people make this mistake. Even if your past employment experiences were AWFUL, don't say so directly.You can get your message across without being negative. Use phrases like "I found that the working environment at my last position didn't match my personality", or something like that.

* Don't argue with the interviewer. This will label you as confrontational.

* Don't be too casual. The interviewer is not your friend, they are the person makingthe decision as to whether or not you are the right person for the job. Acting too familiar is inappropriate - acting open, polite and civil is appropriate.

3. You blew the job

* Attendance - this is the primary reason that most of our clients release our employees and it's the primary reason that most employers terminate employees. Calling off should be limited to EXTREME emergencies or illness. Don't expect that your case is special - most people go to work every day and you need to do the same.

* Insubordination - If you have not already done so, work on your communication skills. Getting angry and using inappropriate language or walking off the job won't get you anywhere and will hurt your chances of finding another position.

Of course these are just some of the things that can make a job search challenging. Perhaps the simplest thing to remember is this: How is the potential employer going to see me? What would I want to see if I were the person doing the interviewing?

What do employer want? Here's a list:

Employers want you to:

Come to work every day on time

Practice good grooming and dress appropriately

Follow directions

Recognize problems and find solutions

Make good decisions

Be honest and dependable

Communicate well and get along with co-workers

Concentrate and care about the quality of your work

Have a positive attitude!!

Happy Job Hunting!

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Showing 1-4 of 4 comments

Submitted By: Matt Cannon

posted on 9/27/2007 @ 10:25:37 AM

(Not Rated)

I agree with Ms. Sessa's comments, this is great, especially for the young ones. What about those of us that are older? A recent job search revealed that there AREN'T any jobs around that will provide the living I am looking for with the qualifications I have. Now how do we solve that one?

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Submitted By: Kelly Wade

posted on 9/7/2007 @ 6:31:05 PM

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Good Job, Pat!!!!

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Submitted By: Karen Sessa

posted on 8/20/2007 @ 6:12:57 PM

Rated Story

Excellent article especially for the younger ones just now looking for jobs and careers. Thanks for the tips.

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Submitted By: Mystery Woman

posted on 7/13/2007 @ 12:01:24 PM

Rated Story

Well said! Sometimes it's the little things that make a big difference!!!

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Showing 1-4 of 4 comments

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