#jobsearch #entrylevel #unemployment #careeradvice
## The Nightmare of Applying for Entry Level Jobs
So, let me just start out by saying that I’ve applied to a lot of entry level jobs – and I mean a LOT. 99+. I’ve been unemployed for around 7 months and my only job before then lasted 6 weeks due to a toxic work environment. Since then, I’ve been struggling to find anything that is even remotely ‘entry level’; I thought I’d share my experience to see if anyone else has faced similar issues or whoever else wants to add their thoughts.
### The Frustration of Unrealistic Requirements
Firstly, half of the entry level jobs I see listed have insane requirements. Recruiters want you to pull the weight of two jobs while only paying for one or ask for experience that not a lot of entry-level candidates have. For example, a beauty salon asked for a receptionist with 3 years in sales or a cashier at a footwear store with a year of customer service experience. It’s disheartening to see such high demands for roles that are meant to be a starting point.
### Lack of Opportunities for Inexperienced Candidates
If every entry level job explicitly looks for experienced candidates, those without experience are left in the dark. Jobs that should be accessible to everyone get snatched up by those who already have an advantage. It creates a vicious cycle where inexperienced individuals struggle to gain the necessary experience to progress in their careers. It’s frustrating and unfair, leaving many young hopefuls feeling discouraged.
### Feelings of Disheartenment and Frustration
It’s understandable to feel discouraged in the face of such challenges. Trying so hard and seeing no progress can be emotionally draining and disheartening. The constant rejection and lack of opportunities can take a toll on one’s mental health and motivation. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and find ways to stay positive and motivated during the job search process.
In conclusion, navigating the world of entry level jobs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with unrealistic requirements and limited opportunities for inexperienced candidates. However, it’s crucial to stay resilient and determined in the face of adversity. By networking, gaining skills through internships or volunteer work, and seeking out mentorship, you can increase your chances of landing your dream entry level job. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and with perseverance and a positive mindset, you can overcome the challenges and achieve success in your job search.
Don’t be so honest, say you worked there for a year. “1 year of customer service experience” is by far the lowest bar and any decent person should qualify.
Also a receptionist at a hair salon is one part working the phones and organizing everything and probably one part rebooking / upselling, don’t go for something like that, line cooks + customer service reps + retail are easily your best bet
Lie.
Seriously. If it’s an entry level job they will train you to do what they want you to do. Customer service isn’t one size fits all and neither is sales. If you know the basics or can bullshit your way through it, just lie.
Remember there are people who are dumber than you and with less experience who somehow hold higher paying jobs.
I’m in the same position OP, once I got to the final round of interviews for an entry level job with training and they didn’t have the guts to call me back. So I contacted them and they sent me a message riddled with typos (half arsed) statin’ they hired someone with “more experience”. Since then, I’m met with the same bullshit. I go and nail an interview, the employer gets along with me and tells me how I’d fit in. They never call back. I contact them, they hired some pensioner with 50 years experience.
It feels impossible to GAIN experience when no one out here is offering the damn experience to those without. I have 3 years customer service which is a lot for my age, yet it ain’t enough. Nothing is ever fucking enough and it’s driving me to the edge (amongst other things but I certainly don’t need THIS stress atop of it).
You have every right to rant and show the harsh reality of this shit regardless of how many times it’s been done ’cause it’s about time we were allowed to use our damn voices without being silenced. I wish you the best of luck in this rigged ass market. Yer doing great even gettin’ interviews, they’re like findin’ diamond these days…
Just lost a great job. Van robbed of $1000 at end of the day. Good money, cash under the table, cool boss, flexible hours, time flew by, paid for driving company vehicle while driving to the different locations…