Job seeking? You’ve got to look at the bigger picture.
Like it or not, We will all have to work at some point.
Over the years, I have had many jobs. From waitressing to pharmacy technician, I’ve done a bunch of odd jobs.
Without a job, we can’t pay our bills, save money or afford a roof over our head.
Due to the cost of living increasing, it is imperative that we can afford the essentials to survive and thrive and this may mean that we need to either ask for a pay increase or look for a new job!
Below are some things that you definitely should avoid doing at all costs!
Look at the money you may earn ONLY.
When I first graduated uni, I was not thinking about what next steps I should take to advance my career. I was not thinking about my career at all. Put it simply, I was thinking, ‘I need money NOW!’ I didn’t think of what I would like to do, what jobs I wouldn’t mind doing and what qualifications and experience I can utilise to find a good, well-paying job.
I did not think of the number of hours that I would need to work or if there was a high chance of promotion within the company. None of the above questions came to mind. I just wanted the money, so I made rash decisions (that I do not regret as they are lessons learnt) that in turn didn’t turn out for the better.
Only looking at the perks the job has to offer.
Many jobs offer competitive perks such as a company car, discounts for a gym membership and even childcare. They are some pretty good incentives, but work is required too! Is the job something that you can see yourself doing for a while?
I worked in the NHS (National Health Service, aka free healthcare in England). The staff discounts within and external to the hospital were great! However, it didn’t take away from the fact that I hated the job! It was dull, unmotivating, and at times stressful. All I did was stick labels on medication and organise folders that my manager didn’t want to do (Just saying it how it is).
I studied Business and Psychology, and I was a pharmacy technician. There is absolutely no correlation, I know. My mum also worked in the same hospital, so I got a ride to and from work; that was my perk. But once again, the job was distracting me from what my goals are.
Downplay yourself
When I first graduated university, I applied for a bunch of random jobs (I was just money hungry) and I eventually landed the role of…aeroplane cleaner! Imagine.
After four years of study, I was working at Gatwick airport. Nightshifts at that! Work started at 6 pm and I finished at 6 am—four nights on, four nights off. Usually, at the start of the shift, I got picked up and transported through security and then had to wait in the staff room until my team and I was called to clean an aeroplane.
As time went by, I just had to sit around and keep myself occupied. Plus, with limited drivers on shift, at times I would wait for hours; reading a book, watching something on my phone, eating a snack and trying to do everything in my power to stay awake.
So, it wasn’t a gruelling job, but it was incredibly boring. The money was ok, but money does not drive me if I am honest. Then, I started to question myself and realised that I was settling. Working at the airport is not where I wanted to be so after a couple of weeks, I quit. Just like that.
I wasn’t even sure who my supervisor and manager were! No one introduced to me, and I wasn’t introduced to them. When I resigned, no one seemed to bat an eyelid. Did I mention that I gave my letter of resignation over email? It is quite funny now that I think about it, but that shows me that it was not a place for me! At all!
Overestimate your skills and LIE!
When I was studying at A-Level degree, around the age of 16/17, I figured that I need to start working: with limited experience and little qualifications under my belt. In my mind, I thought it was best to apply for a job in Canary Wharf; one of the major business and financial districts in London.
Unfortunately, I can’t remember the job role I applied for, but I knew that I didn’t have the experience. Somehow, I managed to secure an interview! Whilst waiting to do be called in for the interview, I remember thinking to myself, why am I here?! On the one hand, it was a great experience, but I was REALLY out of my lead.
Although I didn’t lie on my cv, I know of a few people who did, and it worked in their favour, BUT I would not recommend it.
You don’t want to get caught out and then lose your job! It is not worth it.
As a result of the global pandemic, many people have lost their jobs. I included.
When you are looking for new jobs, bear the tips above in mind. Looking for a job can be time-consuming, so do take breaks. Read the fine lines before applying. You want to ensure that your qualities and what you have to offer to match that of the job. If you need help readjusting to the workplace check out my tips
Put your best foot forward and when you do land your new job check this out!
Best of luck.
Thanks for reading and take care.
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