by Bundy P
Member since:
June 25, 2007

Unemployment Woes

September 06, 2007 06:53 PM EDT
views: 118 | comments: 104

As I was cutting the grass today, I was thinking about my job search and why it has been unsuccessful thusfar.  I sent out many resumes in response to classified ads, but I haven't had a single call.  Granted, I'm overqualified for many of them, but I always send a cover letter stating that I have an interest in being a sales person at the local nursery or a coordinator at a spa, as well as skills that would make me a useful employee.  I only need enough income to pay my exhorbitant health insurance premiums. 

Everybody says that getting a job in New Orleans is a no-brainer.  There are so many jobs available that if you want a job you can get one.  I can't even get an interview!  Is it because of my age or because all my job experience for the last 20 years has been in the medical field?  I'm really at a loss to figure out what my next step should be.

Any ideas?

 

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Comments: 104

JoAnn C. Sep 6, 2007, 7:00pm EDT
I hope it's not because of your age - that would be discrimination.
☃ Aunt Shanny Sep 6, 2007, 7:01pm EDT
I gave up on the job search a while ago. It's been over two years now. I had a dual problem, being overqualified for QC tech jobs or underqualified to work at GM. I am competing against engineers with a LOT more experience! And with so many people out of work here, it's pretty hopeless.
JoAnn C. Sep 6, 2007, 7:06pm EDT
It may be your qualifications. Some employers may see that you are over-qualified and are hesitent about putting the time and money into training you and worry that you'll leave within 6 months.

My manager is trying to fill an open position on our team and he had two candidates - one who was over-qualified and one who had very little work experience. He was very leary about the over-qualified applicant because he was concerned she wouldn't stay long. Luckily, she didn't show up for her second internew with me. We're still on the fence with the other candidate. We have a third one coming in next week.

If you want to move to Connecticut, I'll put in a good word for you with my manager.
Carolyn K. Sep 6, 2007, 7:10pm EDT
Start your own business!! There are so many direct sales companies you can sign on with and NOT have to go through an interview process!
Laura C. Sep 6, 2007, 7:13pm EDT
Go in person to anywhere you're interested in a job. Call back and ask if they're still hiring. It really does make a difference. They're more likely to hire you if they know you. Start shopping at the nurseries (you don't necessarily need to buy, just shop around) and talk to employees there.
j - Frugal Mom - r. Sep 6, 2007, 7:16pm EDT
Bundy, I am sorry, but I have no ideas. I wish you all the best of luck in your search though. Is there a way that you can work as a consultant or start at at agency? Just to get the foot in the door.
Denise B. Sep 6, 2007, 7:16pm EDT
I agree with Laura C.
Dan (Cowboy Up) V. Sep 6, 2007, 7:18pm EDT
Wish I knew??
Vivian P. Sep 6, 2007, 7:20pm EDT
hope you find an answer and get a job soon
Birdee F. Sep 6, 2007, 7:24pm EDT
I would have to say it isn't your age...my husband is 30 & he has been trying to find a job in the financial field (he graduated last year with his bachelors in business management). His problem is he doesn't have enough experience. Everyone here wants 2+years experience in all the jobs he is applying for. He is hoping that someone will take a chance on him! IT have been very frustrating & I hope that we get over this slump cause I am actually thinking of getting a job. I think that I could get something. I want my husband to look elsewhere (another city or state perhaps?). Yes I understand your frustration for sure! Sorry :o(
Penny G. Sep 6, 2007, 7:25pm EDT
The job situation in New Orleans is not at all what many seem to think it is. THough the population has decreased, there are also a heckuva lot of companies that are no longer in business. I'm not sure what aspect of the medical field you work in, but have you considered working for yourself or signing up with a company that provides fill ins?
Sue * Sep 6, 2007, 7:28pm EDT
I had a few interviews when we moved here 4 years ago (I was 48). I was really just trying to find something part time to have something to do. I also was told I was overqualified, or that they couldn't pay me enough...I really think my age was a big factor-but, there is no way to prove it. We decided it was better for my family if I didn't lock into a job anyway, so I quit trying.
Brenda (square peg in a round hole) H. Sep 6, 2007, 7:31pm EDT
No ideas but I wanted to wish you good luck.
Danielle P. Sep 6, 2007, 7:33pm EDT
Good luck with the job search. I'm sorry it has been so hard for you. You are in my prayers.
J. P. Sep 6, 2007, 7:35pm EDT
So sorry to hear that, I wish you all the best.
Nana to Seven Cutiepies Sep 6, 2007, 7:36pm EDT
We are older and when my husband had to find a new job a year ago he also was panicky. He used Monster and got more offers than he could respond to. It's free also.
kathy b. Sep 6, 2007, 7:52pm EDT
well i am 58 and i have been trying for years to find a job and i always get the answers y0u are overqualified or we have already filled the position,so i have just give up but i do wish you luck.
missy k. Sep 6, 2007, 7:53pm EDT
i have no clue dear i wish you luck i am in the same boat i have been sending my things out and getting no call backs and all i want is enough to pay the bills you know what i mean good luck dear
Robb F. Sep 6, 2007, 8:01pm EDT
I can be a witness to your "New Orleans Job Woes." I was searching for a job in my field prior to the Hurricane. Upon returning, rather than continue the job search, I took the time to do much of the work on my house, Later, when others were doing work on my home I could not, I tried to find a part-time job making deliveries, construction work...all jobs I had experience in, albiet some years ago, and the types of jobs that people were screaming to fill at the time. I got a few calls and answers to my inquiries before I was asked to fill out an application or send in a resume.......I am convinced that my resume and employment history was the deal killer. No calls once they saw those. I feel certain it is probably the same in your case. It seems that once someone is established in a profession (a specialty niche within it is worse,) and have made a certain level salary, no one can believe that your willing to do something different, especially at a lower wage. Its like an actor being type-cast. Since that time, when I began searching for a full-time position, I had wanted to take a break from counseling for a while, but I was offered a position "I couldn't refuse." However, it is going to take a while to get back on insurance panels and establish a client base. In the mean time, I have once again been searching for a part-time gig. I'm running into the same wall.......I have responded to ads in the paper, on-line, and businesses with banners outside, "NOW HIRING." Not a bite........."I feel your pain......."
Olivera J. Sep 6, 2007, 8:16pm EDT
My neighbor (in New ORLEANS) has been looking for one for half a year - and she's not picky. Unless you want to work in construction or in fast food, there really aren't that many jobs there right now...
Olivera J. Sep 6, 2007, 8:17pm EDT
Oh - and good luck with your search, of course!
flit . Sep 6, 2007, 8:52pm EDT
perhaps it's time to chuck your resume and try a different format altogether?

or send one out.... and if you don't get any response, call up and see if they would be willing to give you some feedback ....

and of course, let everyone you talk to know that you're looking.... a large %age of jobs never get to the posting/advertisement stage

good luck!
Kay S. Sep 6, 2007, 9:00pm EDT
I think you have received some great suggestions. As Laura suggested, start shopping at the nurseries and talking to staff and manager/s. You may have to make a couple of visits until you feel comfortable enough to strike up a conversation, but as soon as you are comfortable, let the employees you'd like to work there. It's so true that you have a better chance getting an interview if management "knows" you. If you're interested in working in a spa, do you know anyone who could refer you to a specific spa. Instead of sending a resume, why not just send a letter telling the prospective interviewer how your medical experience reaches over and qualifies you to work in a spa. I have no doubt that the age of an applicant has a negative influencce, however, if you don't send a resume and only send a letter, you haven't given the reader any idea of your age. Above all, check out the library for resume/cover letter books for ideas. Good luck, keep your chin up, and please keep us posted.
Erin P. Sep 6, 2007, 9:04pm EDT
Wish I could remember the website on the radio the other day ... it was like a head-hunter, but for the average joe. They take not only your work experience, but also what you do in your spare time: hobbies, charities, etc. to show what other areas you are skilled to make a difference. I'm going to see if my hubby can remember it (it was one of those look at eachother with wide-eyes and a lightbubl going on) and I can repost later.
Amanda "middle of nowhere" C. Sep 6, 2007, 9:16pm EDT
Do you have a career center or a labor department office nearby? Counselors there can be a great help in showing you how to market yourself and also provide job leads. Services are free. It's worth looking into. They may even be able to provide training if it's needed for a certain job. Good luck! Being unemployed is one of the worst experiences in my life.
Amanda "middle of nowhere" C. Sep 6, 2007, 9:16pm EDT
Here's another point jus to cheer you up!
Heather W. Sep 6, 2007, 9:58pm EDT
I don't have any ideas, but good luck.
Nancy S. Sep 6, 2007, 10:03pm EDT
Sorry Bundy. I have no helpful ideas. Just wishing you luck & giving a point.
Lots of good advice here, Bundy. Hope it all works out for you!
Jennifer P. Sep 6, 2007, 10:30pm EDT
Wish I could help you out but I have been a SAHM for the last 8 years so I have no idea what it's like out there. I wish you the best of luck in your search though.
Michelle K. Sep 6, 2007, 10:36pm EDT
There is an ad on my gather page for a job search site. It's called snagajob.com

Good luck with your job search. I hope that all goes well for you. Maybe have someone that tends to be brutally honest look over your resume and see if they see something wrong with it. I would think there would big needfor people in the medical field, in your area.

Read Matthew 7:7-13 and Luke 12:22-34

I will keep you in my prayers.
Rose Marie M. Sep 6, 2007, 11:04pm EDT
I changed careers mid-life and did a lot of temp jobs while going to school in my 40's. In most jobs, I know age makes a difference although they'll try to hide that fact. If they want someone who is "energetic" that means "young". To lift boxes, move stuff around, do all the stuff arthritic folks can't do. (Not that you are arthritic; I'm just generalizing!) And they don't like overqualified people because they think we'll get bored and move on. But on the bright side, talk to a lot of people and get the word out. I think a lot of resumes get thrown in the trash. Your good personality will get you far. Good luck!
Holly G. Sep 7, 2007, 1:12am EDT
I bet you its because you are overqualified. They think if they train you, and put time and money into you, a few months from now you are going to leave because the pay is not enough. My mom gets that all the time. I think it's horrible, because a lot of people just need a job, and obviously if there was something in their field that was hiring, they would be there!!
Jerry Owens Sep 7, 2007, 1:47am EDT
Hey Bundy unfortunately overqualification can be a problem and so can age. Yeah, I know there isn't supposed to be any age discrimination, but there is and try to prove it. Anyway, keep applying everywhere and follow up. Good luck!
Jerri H. Sep 7, 2007, 2:09am EDT
I am just tring to catch up....forgive me the cut and paste but I enjoy you sharing very much~~~~ 10
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lynn a. Sep 7, 2007, 2:55am EDT
My husband tried to get a job in New Orleans as an accountant. He did get some interviews. His problem was convincing people he was willing to move there and stay. That was the truth. He had been looking here. It took him two years to finally get a job and it only happened because someone he'd worked with at another company called him up and asked him would he take it. Getting a job is a nightmare. I'd say just don't give up. I spoke with a young woman who has been looking for a job for 4 months and she is 20. Many of the accounting jobs here want 2 to 5 years experience and no they don't want someone with 20. I think that may have to do with salary. Companies can no longer be trusted to keep their word, so I think they make the assumption people applying won't keep theirs either. They can't seem to hear you say you would be content with part-time or whatever it is that you are willing to do. Have you contacted all your friends to let them know you are looking for something? Good luck. It's just hard. And it probably isn't you.
Jo C. Sep 7, 2007, 5:27am EDT
I have always gotten jobs by getting to know someone in person at the company. You can go in again and again until you have some rapport with an employee or manager. You'd be surprised how well this works because once you've gotten to the point where you are a real person,not just a resume', you have a better chance. Hang in there and try to think outside the box.
Jo C. Sep 7, 2007, 5:31am EDT
Also, if you want a job at a nursery or spa, those would be perfect places to visit and eventually get to know someone there. You could buy some plants or research plants to buy, talking to the manager or someone who could help you get your foot in the door. Same for the spa. Inside contacts are often the best.

What is important is to really CARE about the information. If you focus only on getting a job, it will show. So be sure you really do have a reason to be there and then relax, be yourself and see what happens. Good luck!
arlene (no shame in my game) w. Sep 7, 2007, 6:44am EDT
I thought the medical field was always booming. Maybe it's the area.
Teresa W. Sep 7, 2007, 7:43am EDT
I wish that I did know of something but I'm stumped. All I can do is send positive thoughts your way! :-)
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:32am EDT
I know it would be discrimination, JoAnn, but maybe I'm just wasting my time applying for those jobs.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:34am EDT
Shannon, are you going to have to move to find a job? Are you content with being unemployed?
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:35am EDT
Shauna, that's kind of how I feel...like I'm on a Black List!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:38am EDT
Thanks, JoAnn...I can understand someone's hesitation in hiring an overqualified candidate. I did the same thing as a manager. That's why I send a cover letter explaining why I'm applying for that job.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:40am EDT
Carolyn, I've thought about starting my own business. I tried direct sales several years ago without much success, but that's an excellent idea!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:43am EDT
Thanks, Laura. I will try the nursery route...some of the ads are blind ads, so I have NO idea to whom I'm applying !
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:45am EDT
Janell, thanks...I'll check into it!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:47am EDT
I have thought about working as a consultant, jr, but I'll need more schooling for that...it's an option!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:50am EDT
Thanks, Denise!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:53am EDT
Dan, thanks for stopping by!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:54am EDT
Thank you, Vivian...
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 8:57am EDT
It is frustrating, Birdee...with gas prices the way they are, you almost don't want to look too far away...good luck to your husband!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 9:01am EDT
That's how I lost my job, Penny... the doctor I worked for gave up and moved to Texas! I work in the lab, and I haven't found any companies that do temp jobs. It takes awhile to train on different machines, so it really doesn't lend itself to fill-in jobs. I'm not able to work for myself in this field; I have to have a doctor as a medical director.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 9:03am EDT
I hear ya, Sue!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:06am EDT
Brenda, thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:08am EDT
Danielle, you're very sweet!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:10am EDT
Thanks, Julya!
Amy S. Sep 7, 2007, 10:13am EDT
good luck and hopefully you will find something soon!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:13am EDT
I'll try that, Nana...thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:15am EDT
Kathy, I'm sorry to hear that!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:16am EDT
Sounds like we're in the same boat, Missy...best of luck to you!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:19am EDT
Robb, I'm glad you're working again...it's nice to have people out there who know the situation...
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:20am EDT
You're absolutely right, Olivera...thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:21am EDT
Good points, flit...thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:23am EDT
Thanks, Kay. I think once they see my resume with 25 years experience in the medical field, they figure I have to be over 40, at least...
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:25am EDT
Thanks, Erin...that sounds like just what I need!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:27am EDT
Amanda, I filed my resume at the career counseling center, as well. They have given me two leads which didn't pan out. Thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:28am EDT
Thank you, Heather
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:30am EDT
Nancy, thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:33am EDT
I do include a cover letter, Lee, that states while my resume may not seem to fit the job description, here are the skills I have that would make me a valuable employee. A lot of the ads are blind ads with just a fax number, so it makes it hard to follow up.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:34am EDT
Thanks, Angela!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:36am EDT
Jennifer, thanks...if my children were still young, I wouldn't be so anxious!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:38am EDT
Thanks for the link, Michelle, and for the prayers!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:39am EDT
Rose Marie, you hit the nail on the head...thank you for the uplifting words!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:41am EDT
You said it, Holly!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:42am EDT
I think it's just a fact of life, Jerry...thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:43am EDT
Jerri, thanks for stopping by...
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:46am EDT
Lynn, I don't think it's me; unfortunately, most of my friends are either in the same boat or have had to leave the area due to the storm.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:48am EDT
Great advice, Jane...thanks!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:49am EDT
Arlene, it's definitely the city...we've lost so many hospitals and doctors since the hurricane.
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:51am EDT
Thanks, Teresa!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 10:52am EDT
Thank you, Amy
Shannon S. Sep 7, 2007, 1:12pm EDT
Don't just rely on classified ads. You need to start meeting people and making contacts. Expand your network. Since it sounds like you are looking for front-line jobs, you might consider temping (I don't know what the temp market is like in NO, but many employers hire temps to try them out). It also lets you get a glimpse inside the organization before you commit to a full-time job. Even volunteer work will get you out and about and meeting people. Be sure and let EVERYONE know that you are looking and what you are looking for. Don't get discouraged. The right job is out there somewhere.
Barb M Sep 7, 2007, 4:00pm EDT
Don't have an answer but I'll pray for you!!!
Marian L Sep 7, 2007, 5:51pm EDT
It's probably your age. My husband and I sold our business early this year. He has been trying to get a job for months, mainly to pay our health insurance premiums. He was finally hired for a 20 hour a week job and hates it. It seems no one wants a 58 year old former business owner.

I now work for my nephew in the business he bought from us.
Heidianna "Coriander" T. Sep 7, 2007, 7:11pm EDT
That's really hard. Just keep trying. Talk to everyone you meet, because you never know when they might have a contact for you to talk to... I think it's a law of averages. I'm so sorry. :(
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 7:23pm EDT
Thanks, Shannon...I was a Kelly girl in college, maybe I should try that again!
Jo C. Sep 7, 2007, 7:24pm EDT
I sent you a link to the For Better or Worse site. Read away!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 7:25pm EDT
Thanks, Barb!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 7:27pm EDT
I think that's a big part of it, Marian...
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 7:30pm EDT
You're sweet, Cori!
Bundy P Sep 7, 2007, 7:33pm EDT
Thank you, Jane!
Shannon W Sep 7, 2007, 10:24pm EDT
I don't have any tips but I will definitely keep you in my thoughts. I'll keep my fingers and toes crossed too!
tammy b. Sep 8, 2007, 11:20am EDT
good luck. I have no ideas either.
Bundy P Sep 8, 2007, 5:10pm EDT
Thanks, Shannon!
Bundy P Sep 8, 2007, 5:11pm EDT
Thank you, Tammy!
Timothy S. Sep 8, 2007, 8:19pm EDT
Just be glad your not in Michigan lol
CyberGwen ! Sep 9, 2007, 11:48am EDT
I have been having similar problems here. I am in that over/under qualified spot. I am lucky because I have a very supportive BF so I just need a job that gives me a little extra and gets me out of the house. You would think that wouldn't be too much to ask, but it seems that it is.

I even tried Subway and they said that I wouldn't fit in and was overqualified! It is really frustrating! I don't want a job that I have done in the past, because with my depression and anxiety issues, it just won't work, but it may come to that.

Everyone had great tips, go out and make yourself known at the places that you would like to work and follow up on the resumes that you send:)

Good luck!
Carol V. Sep 9, 2007, 3:13pm EDT
Bundy, I wish you lots of luck in your search. Before getting the job I have now, I was unemployed for 10 months. I kept losing out to peole that had 20+ years experience. I registered with the state unemployment website (IL & MO since we live in the St. Louis Metro area). I also registered online with several of the major employers in the area and the newspapers and got a few interviews from these sites. Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com also were a great source for me. I even registered with the temp agencies in the area.

The job I have now I applied for from a link on the Missouri unemployment website. I had several interviews from registering with the different company websites - Laclede Gas, Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Childrens Hospital.

{{{{{Bundy}}}}}
Bundy P Sep 9, 2007, 5:59pm EDT
Thanks, Gwen!