I interviewed for the beer bitch position yesterday. Not really the job for me. It's primarily planning and executing parties at various bars and clubs, which sounds fun, but being home at 3 a.m. every night does not. I'm too old, married and unhip for the job and I think the interviewer came to the same conclusion. The 22 year old me would have loved it, the nearly 28 year old me does not. The lady told me they receive 85 applications per week for the job and interview something like 25. I think it's safe to say they will not be calling me for another interview and even if they did I'd probably decline. That means I have only one possible job offer in the works and that's at the PR agency. The woman there didn't give me a time frame so I have no idea when to give up hope. As she said she wants to have someone start working by mid-January I'll assume that someone isn't me if I don't hear from her by early January. I've applied to a couple of other positions, but nothing that I feel confident about. Hopefully a bunch of new jobs will become available after the new year.
My husband and I are making the final move to Tampa this weekend. We drove from Tampa to Beaufort, SC yesterday (6 hours). Today we're driving from Beaufort to Greenville (4 hours). Saturday it's Greenville to Beaufort (4) and Sunday Beaufort to Tampa (6). So many hours on the road! I'll be so happy when we have all of our stuff and our cats in our new apartment. We got Tampa cell phones yesterday so I finally have a local address and phone number. I hope this helps my job search. I've been searching six weeks now.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Saturday
Positions Applied to: 36
Interview Invitations: 3
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 36 days
I've been trying not to get over confident about the job interviews so that I don't find myself back at square one should neither opportunity work out. I want to keep cranking out applications and initiate interview invitations rather than risk being without job prospects. A mistake I made in my last major job hunt was to base all of my hopes on one interview and more or less discontinue the application process. It was devastating when I didn't get a job because I usually had nothing else in the works. Lately, I've been having difficulty finding entry-level positions to apply to and I'm hoping it's just the time of year. I've been sending lots of general applications and applying with huge corporations like the Home Shopping Network that I have little hope of impressing. Hopefully, I'll be able to find more promising opportunities after the holidays. Right now I'm just waiting for the beer interview on the 27th and to hear back from the PR lady I interviewed with a few days ago. I sent her a handwritten thank you note, the first I've ever sent. I know applicants are supposed to send one every time but I always thought it was silly or old fashioned. I think I had the wrong idea.
Interview Invitations: 3
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 36 days
I've been trying not to get over confident about the job interviews so that I don't find myself back at square one should neither opportunity work out. I want to keep cranking out applications and initiate interview invitations rather than risk being without job prospects. A mistake I made in my last major job hunt was to base all of my hopes on one interview and more or less discontinue the application process. It was devastating when I didn't get a job because I usually had nothing else in the works. Lately, I've been having difficulty finding entry-level positions to apply to and I'm hoping it's just the time of year. I've been sending lots of general applications and applying with huge corporations like the Home Shopping Network that I have little hope of impressing. Hopefully, I'll be able to find more promising opportunities after the holidays. Right now I'm just waiting for the beer interview on the 27th and to hear back from the PR lady I interviewed with a few days ago. I sent her a handwritten thank you note, the first I've ever sent. I know applicants are supposed to send one every time but I always thought it was silly or old fashioned. I think I had the wrong idea.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Going Back In Time
Once again, after hours of driving, I'm back in South Carolina after a job interview in Florida. The interview today seemed to go okay, but the woman was a bit intense. As soon as I sat down she handed me five informational handouts, one listing the duties of the position, the others listing the traits of a successful PR person as dictated by some guy who wrote a business textbook. I had to read the information and say whether or not I possessed these traits (I of course said yes) and she then asked a couple of standard questions like "Why PR?" and "Where do you see yourself in five years?" After the Q and A she told me that no one she's interviewed has really stood out (I'm not sure if she included me in that group) and that she is looking for someone with "charisma, presence, moxie," an inquisitive mind (Requirements for Success, Trait 5, Handout 4). I really didn't know how to respond so I just nodded and tried to exude moxie and inquisitiveness. She did say that she liked my varied internship experience, my time in Japan and the way I answered her questions so perhaps there is some hope for this job. I think it would be great experience although I'm sure I'd find the woman a bit intimidating. She said she has to interview two other candidates and will then either choose someone from the current pool or initiate second round interviews. We'll see how it goes. Meanwhile, my other interview for the beer marketing/beer bitch position is a week from tomorrow.
Thankfully, I'm going to become part of the "local talent" next week. After the interview my husband and I looked at a couple of apartments and ended up signing a lease at the same complex we lived in a few years ago. It's where we met actually (on the dock pictured below). We had a great time while we lived there and we've missed it over the years, but never did we think we'd be back. In a way my husband and I feel like we've regressed as we expected to own a home by now, but then I did earn a Master's degree and gain relevant experience in Charleston, not to mention our stints in Japan and Thailand, so it's not like we don't have anything to show for our time away. Plus there's this...
Thankfully, I'm going to become part of the "local talent" next week. After the interview my husband and I looked at a couple of apartments and ended up signing a lease at the same complex we lived in a few years ago. It's where we met actually (on the dock pictured below). We had a great time while we lived there and we've missed it over the years, but never did we think we'd be back. In a way my husband and I feel like we've regressed as we expected to own a home by now, but then I did earn a Master's degree and gain relevant experience in Charleston, not to mention our stints in Japan and Thailand, so it's not like we don't have anything to show for our time away. Plus there's this...
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
On the Road Again
Positions Applied to: 32
Interview Invitations: 3
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 32 days
This afternoon my husband and I are off to Tampa for my interview at the public relations agency. Hopefully I can convince the woman that I'm better than the local talent. While researching the agency I learned that it handles publicity for the Historical Royal Palaces in England. For example, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace and the TOWER OF LONDON! That's no big deal to most people, but I am possibly the biggest English history nerd around. For me, visiting the Tower of London was like visiting Mecca. I have no idea why a small, American PR firm has anything to do with the royal palaces, but I be thrilled to work on that account.
I also got a phone call about another job, so I have another interview in the Tampa area next week. I'll be interviewing for a marketing position with a well-known beer company. The listing did not give much information, but from what I understand I and two or three others would be responsible for the planning and execution of various promotional events. My friend had a similar job for a cigarette company and she was paid very well, got tons of free samples and had a huge budget to work with. The downside is that I'd likely have to spend lots of late hours at bars and clubs and my husband would not be thrilled. Plus, I feel too old and unhip for the club scene these days. Never the less, I'm going to the interview with an open mind.
I've pretty much given up on the Ft. Lauderdale ad agency. My husband more or less has his heart set on Tampa and is talking of looking at apartments while we're down there. If the agency had contacted me when they said they would and offered me the job I would have taken it, but now I feel like I'm being strung along. I did send them an email saying I'd be unavailable by phone for the next two days, but haven't heard anything. Oh well, the job hunting process just wouldn't be complete with a seemingly promising opportunity evaporating into thin air for reasons unknown. Every time I've searched for a job I've had a seemingly great interview, sometimes two, with a company that promises to call and never does.
Interview Invitations: 3
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 32 days
This afternoon my husband and I are off to Tampa for my interview at the public relations agency. Hopefully I can convince the woman that I'm better than the local talent. While researching the agency I learned that it handles publicity for the Historical Royal Palaces in England. For example, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace and the TOWER OF LONDON! That's no big deal to most people, but I am possibly the biggest English history nerd around. For me, visiting the Tower of London was like visiting Mecca. I have no idea why a small, American PR firm has anything to do with the royal palaces, but I be thrilled to work on that account.
I also got a phone call about another job, so I have another interview in the Tampa area next week. I'll be interviewing for a marketing position with a well-known beer company. The listing did not give much information, but from what I understand I and two or three others would be responsible for the planning and execution of various promotional events. My friend had a similar job for a cigarette company and she was paid very well, got tons of free samples and had a huge budget to work with. The downside is that I'd likely have to spend lots of late hours at bars and clubs and my husband would not be thrilled. Plus, I feel too old and unhip for the club scene these days. Never the less, I'm going to the interview with an open mind.
I've pretty much given up on the Ft. Lauderdale ad agency. My husband more or less has his heart set on Tampa and is talking of looking at apartments while we're down there. If the agency had contacted me when they said they would and offered me the job I would have taken it, but now I feel like I'm being strung along. I did send them an email saying I'd be unavailable by phone for the next two days, but haven't heard anything. Oh well, the job hunting process just wouldn't be complete with a seemingly promising opportunity evaporating into thin air for reasons unknown. Every time I've searched for a job I've had a seemingly great interview, sometimes two, with a company that promises to call and never does.
Monday, December 17, 2007
It's Just Another Mundane Monday
Positions Applied to: 32
Interview Invitations: 2
Direct Rejections: 4
Indirect Rejections (3 weeks with no response): 12
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 14
Time Spent Hunting: 31 days
I'm beginning to feel discouraged and negative again because the ad agency, of course, hasn't called. I know I said I didn't really expect them to call today, but the longer this goes on the less likely I think anything is going to develop. They've broken two of their own contact deadlines now. I won't be here to answer the phone tomorrow and the next day, due to the Tampa interview, nor will my in-laws. We also don't have a cell phone, so if by some miracle the agency did try to call me in the next day or two there will be no way for them to reach me. I considered sending a message saying I will only be available by email the next two days (and hopefully extract some additional information) but haven't so far. My husband says screw 'em, he would rather live in Tampa anyway, but I need a job and the "interview" seemed so promising! How frustrating! Just what are they doing and why do they keep making contact promises they can't keep?
Interview Invitations: 2
Direct Rejections: 4
Indirect Rejections (3 weeks with no response): 12
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 14
Time Spent Hunting: 31 days
I'm beginning to feel discouraged and negative again because the ad agency, of course, hasn't called. I know I said I didn't really expect them to call today, but the longer this goes on the less likely I think anything is going to develop. They've broken two of their own contact deadlines now. I won't be here to answer the phone tomorrow and the next day, due to the Tampa interview, nor will my in-laws. We also don't have a cell phone, so if by some miracle the agency did try to call me in the next day or two there will be no way for them to reach me. I considered sending a message saying I will only be available by email the next two days (and hopefully extract some additional information) but haven't so far. My husband says screw 'em, he would rather live in Tampa anyway, but I need a job and the "interview" seemed so promising! How frustrating! Just what are they doing and why do they keep making contact promises they can't keep?
Friday, December 14, 2007
Need Job, Will Travel
Positions Applied to: 32
Interview Invitations: 2
Direct Rejections: 4
Indirect Rejections (3 weeks with no response): 9
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 17
Time Spent Hunting: 28 days
Please forgive that last entry. I'm feeling a bit more positive today. While the ad agency never called, one of the women I spoke to sent an email and told me she'd have feedback for me on Monday (hopefully). So the waiting game is to go on a little longer. I won't be surprised if I don't hear anything by Monday, although I do think I'll hear something early next week. Be it good or bad I couldn't say. After meeting and seeing firsthand that I'm not a degenerate, it seemed that the agency people had decided to hire me without going through all of the usual rigmarole, but if that were true why this delay? My guess is that they have to clear it with the director of the account I'd be working on (he was too busy to speak with me the day of the interview) but I'm afraid they're just going to hire a local person for the sake of convenience. They were all so amazed that I drove down to Ft. Lauderdale just for the interview and I don't think they realize that my husband and I don't have qualms about traveling for interviews or relocating immediately.
At least I have the Wednesday interview in Tampa to distract me, although the women there, herald of local talent, also seems to have reservations about my being from out of state. If for some reason both of these agency jobs fall through, my husband and I are definitely moving to Tampa after the holidays, job or no job. Living in South Carolina is putting me at a disadvantage as none of the employers in Charleston have contacted me and Florida employers may see my current out-of-state residency as a reason not to hire, or even contact me. I certainly see why it would be easier for hiring managers to narrow their search to local candidates.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Outsiders Need Not Apply
Positions Applied to: 31
Interview Invitations: 2
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 26 days
It's now 4 o'clock and no word from the agency. I suppose there's some hope left for the day, but it's looking grim. Before I left yesterday, I specifically asked them for a response time frame and they repeatedly told me they'd call today. Wankers.
While I was waiting, I sent a couple of follow up emails to the places I applied to nearly three weeks ago. One of them was to the public relations agency I mentioned in my last post. The contact immediately responded and said she'd previously sent a reply and that her message must have been filtered into my junk mail. I checked and there was nothing there. If she sent a reply I never received it. I'm not sure that she did. She went on to say that while I was a viable candidate, the agency would not be flying candidates in for interviews or paying moving expenses and that the Tampa market is overflowing with talent as there are two universities in the area, both with excellent communication programs. I don't know why she thought I assumed they'd be paying my way. In my cover letter, I specifically say that interview travel and relocation will not be a problem. She did say that if I was in the area soon she'd be glad to meet with me, so I sent her an email asking if she was available next week. So we now have an interview on Wednesday, December 19th. Wish me luck against all the local talent!
Interview Invitations: 2
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 26 days
It's now 4 o'clock and no word from the agency. I suppose there's some hope left for the day, but it's looking grim. Before I left yesterday, I specifically asked them for a response time frame and they repeatedly told me they'd call today. Wankers.
While I was waiting, I sent a couple of follow up emails to the places I applied to nearly three weeks ago. One of them was to the public relations agency I mentioned in my last post. The contact immediately responded and said she'd previously sent a reply and that her message must have been filtered into my junk mail. I checked and there was nothing there. If she sent a reply I never received it. I'm not sure that she did. She went on to say that while I was a viable candidate, the agency would not be flying candidates in for interviews or paying moving expenses and that the Tampa market is overflowing with talent as there are two universities in the area, both with excellent communication programs. I don't know why she thought I assumed they'd be paying my way. In my cover letter, I specifically say that interview travel and relocation will not be a problem. She did say that if I was in the area soon she'd be glad to meet with me, so I sent her an email asking if she was available next week. So we now have an interview on Wednesday, December 19th. Wish me luck against all the local talent!
Tell Me About a Time When...
Positions Applied to: 31
Interview Invitations: 1
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 26 days
Well, I'm back from my interview in Ft. Lauderdale and things seemed to go well. It wasn't so much of a traditional interview as a time for 2 or 3 HR people to talk about the duties of the position and for me to nod enthusiastically. I literally spent hours formulating answers to every interview question imaginable, yet they didn't ask much in the way of my qualifications or past experiences. I especially focused on the behavioral questions that I hate so much. You know, like "tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge" or "tell me about a time when you didn't perform to the best of your abilities," but they didn't ask anything like that. They seemed more interested in my Japan experience than anything else. The whole thing was much more casual than I expected, which is good I guess. I feel pretty confident about my chances right now, but don't want to assume anything. I've had casual interviews like this in the past, where I was certain I'd got the job, but then didn't. They're supposed to call with a decision tomorrow. Oh please, let me know one way or the other tomorrow! I find the suspense of waiting for a post-interview call unbearable.
None of the other companies I've applied with have contacted me, and I'm a bit surprised, and irritated, by that. I was confident the publishing company that I interned with would have at least emailed me by now. If they blow me off again that's just ridiculous. Another puzzling black hole is the PR agency in Tampa that was seeking a entry-level account executive. Why haven't they contacted me? At the risk of sounding arrogant, I doubt there are many candidates as qualified as me. Do hiring managers even look at all the resumes they receive? Often times it seems they don't. I know this is totally one sided and that HR managers are constantly swamped with resumes, but when I put all this time and effort into crafting a customized cover letter and resume for a position that I know I'm perfectly qualified for, and then hear nothing, it's frustrating. Especially when it happens over and over again. Okay, rant over.
Hopefully, I will have no need of this blog come tomorrow.
Interview Invitations: 1
Direct Rejections: 4
Time Spent Hunting: 26 days
Well, I'm back from my interview in Ft. Lauderdale and things seemed to go well. It wasn't so much of a traditional interview as a time for 2 or 3 HR people to talk about the duties of the position and for me to nod enthusiastically. I literally spent hours formulating answers to every interview question imaginable, yet they didn't ask much in the way of my qualifications or past experiences. I especially focused on the behavioral questions that I hate so much. You know, like "tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge" or "tell me about a time when you didn't perform to the best of your abilities," but they didn't ask anything like that. They seemed more interested in my Japan experience than anything else. The whole thing was much more casual than I expected, which is good I guess. I feel pretty confident about my chances right now, but don't want to assume anything. I've had casual interviews like this in the past, where I was certain I'd got the job, but then didn't. They're supposed to call with a decision tomorrow. Oh please, let me know one way or the other tomorrow! I find the suspense of waiting for a post-interview call unbearable.
None of the other companies I've applied with have contacted me, and I'm a bit surprised, and irritated, by that. I was confident the publishing company that I interned with would have at least emailed me by now. If they blow me off again that's just ridiculous. Another puzzling black hole is the PR agency in Tampa that was seeking a entry-level account executive. Why haven't they contacted me? At the risk of sounding arrogant, I doubt there are many candidates as qualified as me. Do hiring managers even look at all the resumes they receive? Often times it seems they don't. I know this is totally one sided and that HR managers are constantly swamped with resumes, but when I put all this time and effort into crafting a customized cover letter and resume for a position that I know I'm perfectly qualified for, and then hear nothing, it's frustrating. Especially when it happens over and over again. Okay, rant over.
Hopefully, I will have no need of this blog come tomorrow.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
New Resume
Positions Applied to: 30
Interview Invitations: 1
Direct Rejections: 3
Indirect Rejections (3 weeks with no response): 6
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 21
Time Spent Hunting: 23 days
After doing some reformatting, I was able to add more information to my resume yet keep it to one page. I like this version much better. We'll see if it makes any difference.
My name
Address
Phone Number
Email
EDUCATION (This part is screwed up in the blog, but nicely formatted on the resume)
2005-2006 1998-2002
College of Charleston, The Citadel University of Central Oklahoma,
Charleston, SC Edmond, OK
Master of Arts, English Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2/2007-11/2007 Nova, Tokyo, Japan English Instructor
• Taught conversational English to hundreds of students of all skill levels and age ranges
• Lead preparation seminars for both national and international English proficiency tests
• Responsible for the coordination of all children’s classes within the branch. This included the organization and assembly of weekly materials and paperwork, the coordination of semiannual performance reviews for approximately 170 children and management of special needs students and cases
5/2005-1/2007 Tour Company, Charleston, SC Customer Service Manager
• Responsible for coordination and execution of ten nightly walking tours which included the management of customers, tour guides and on-site staff
• Assisted in the planning and execution of annual Halloween event, including reservations, ticket sales and on-site operations
• Composed tour descriptions for company brochures and website
8/2006 – 12/2006 Independent Paper, Charleston, SC Editorial Intern
• Researched and wrote short pieces for online and print publication. Topics included art, theatre, health, beauty and community events
• Assisted editors in researching and planning content for upcoming feature stories
• Organized and entered community events in print and online community calendars resulting in easier access for both readers and staff
4/2006 – 6/2006 Artsy Fartsy Office, Charleston, SC Arts Management Intern – Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival
• Served as house manager for various festival performances which entailed the management of volunteers, box office staff and theatre coordinators
• Assisted in the planning, preparation and execution of large scale, outdoor events such as intern produced block parties, concerts and grand finale celebrations
• Completed various Public Relations tasks such as composing and editing copy for event fliers, assembling media kits and event clipbooks and working in the festival press room
4/2005 – 6/2005 Publishing Company, Mt. Pleasant, SC Public Relations Intern
• Wrote press releases, author bios and other materials for newly published X books
• Developed professional media kits featuring X books and authors
• Telephoned media contacts in order to generate interest and publicity for new books
Interview Invitations: 1
Direct Rejections: 3
Indirect Rejections (3 weeks with no response): 6
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 21
Time Spent Hunting: 23 days
After doing some reformatting, I was able to add more information to my resume yet keep it to one page. I like this version much better. We'll see if it makes any difference.
My name
Address
Phone Number
EDUCATION (This part is screwed up in the blog, but nicely formatted on the resume)
2005-2006 1998-2002
College of Charleston, The Citadel University of Central Oklahoma,
Charleston, SC Edmond, OK
Master of Arts, English Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2/2007-11/2007 Nova, Tokyo, Japan English Instructor
• Taught conversational English to hundreds of students of all skill levels and age ranges
• Lead preparation seminars for both national and international English proficiency tests
• Responsible for the coordination of all children’s classes within the branch. This included the organization and assembly of weekly materials and paperwork, the coordination of semiannual performance reviews for approximately 170 children and management of special needs students and cases
5/2005-1/2007 Tour Company, Charleston, SC Customer Service Manager
• Responsible for coordination and execution of ten nightly walking tours which included the management of customers, tour guides and on-site staff
• Assisted in the planning and execution of annual Halloween event, including reservations, ticket sales and on-site operations
• Composed tour descriptions for company brochures and website
8/2006 – 12/2006 Independent Paper, Charleston, SC Editorial Intern
• Researched and wrote short pieces for online and print publication. Topics included art, theatre, health, beauty and community events
• Assisted editors in researching and planning content for upcoming feature stories
• Organized and entered community events in print and online community calendars resulting in easier access for both readers and staff
4/2006 – 6/2006 Artsy Fartsy Office, Charleston, SC Arts Management Intern – Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival
• Served as house manager for various festival performances which entailed the management of volunteers, box office staff and theatre coordinators
• Assisted in the planning, preparation and execution of large scale, outdoor events such as intern produced block parties, concerts and grand finale celebrations
• Completed various Public Relations tasks such as composing and editing copy for event fliers, assembling media kits and event clipbooks and working in the festival press room
4/2005 – 6/2005 Publishing Company, Mt. Pleasant, SC Public Relations Intern
• Wrote press releases, author bios and other materials for newly published X books
• Developed professional media kits featuring X books and authors
• Telephoned media contacts in order to generate interest and publicity for new books
Thursday, December 6, 2007
We're Living in a 2-5 Years Experience World, but I am an Entry-Level Girl
Each time I apply for a job I copy and paste the wanted description into a Word document and save the information for future reference. As I was looking over the descriptions today I realized I have applied to a lot of jobs I'm simply not qualified for. In fact, of the 23 positions I am waiting to hear back on, only 10 are at my level of experience. I was so eager to apply to as many positions as possible that I didn't really heed the employers' qualification requirements. It's the old Catch 22. The majority of companies I applied to want someone with experience, but how can I get experience if no one wants to hire me? It's frustrating because I know I could do the jobs I applied for, but I don't have the 2-5 years of related experience. Of the 10 positions I am qualified for, 3 are approaching the two week mark and another the three week mark, so even those applications aren't attracting much interest. I guess that makes my interview with the ad agency all the more important. It's scheduled for next Tuesday at 2 p.m. Wish me luck!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Wednesday Odds and Ends
Another day, another empty voice mail and inbox. I try to find ways to get out of the house so I don't sit and fret all day. Of all the stages in the job hunting process, I think the Waiting for a Call stage is the worst.
I have a tentative interview in Ft. Lauderdale on Tuesday, December 11th. After nearly three weeks of searching, the ad agency is my only option right now. The pros of the job are that it's in Ft. Lauderdale and at an agency, the cons are that it's low paying and in an unpleasant environment (if the Internet comments can be trusted). Nevertheless, it's not something I can afford to blow off. We'll see how it goes. I'm afraid I'll accept and settle for a job I don't really want only to have dream employers start calling after it's too late.
I tweaked my resume today as I felt I the previous one minimized my experience. For example:
It's difficult for me to adequately describe my qualifications and experience without going over one page. Usually I copy and paste my cover letter and resume into the main body of the email because I feel I have more room to spare and because I don't want to risk any attachment complications. Is that a no no?
Soon I'm going to have to start filing some of the earlier applications under Indirect Rejections as it's been nearly 3 weeks with no word. What is a reasonable time frame for giving up?
I have a tentative interview in Ft. Lauderdale on Tuesday, December 11th. After nearly three weeks of searching, the ad agency is my only option right now. The pros of the job are that it's in Ft. Lauderdale and at an agency, the cons are that it's low paying and in an unpleasant environment (if the Internet comments can be trusted). Nevertheless, it's not something I can afford to blow off. We'll see how it goes. I'm afraid I'll accept and settle for a job I don't really want only to have dream employers start calling after it's too late.
I tweaked my resume today as I felt I the previous one minimized my experience. For example:
Responsible for coordination and execution of ten nightly walking tours which included the management of customers, tour guides and staff on location
VS.
Booked and coordinated historic Charleston ghost tours
It's difficult for me to adequately describe my qualifications and experience without going over one page. Usually I copy and paste my cover letter and resume into the main body of the email because I feel I have more room to spare and because I don't want to risk any attachment complications. Is that a no no?
Positions Applied to: 26
Interview Invitations: 1
Direct Rejections: 3
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 23
Time Spent Hunting: 19 days
Soon I'm going to have to start filing some of the earlier applications under Indirect Rejections as it's been nearly 3 weeks with no word. What is a reasonable time frame for giving up?
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Tuesday
I got in touch with the HR guy today and had a short conversation with him on the phone. While talking I quickly realized my interview/BS skills are a bit rusty as I found myself stammering and babbling a few times. He asked me a couple of basic questions to get me talking about my ideal position and former job duties. The questions that tripped me up were "why advertising?" and "what kinds of clients would you be interested in working with?" I should have been prepared for both of these questions, but wasn't. When he asked me about what kinds of clients I would be interested in I said something about retail clients, thinking of a popular shoe company they represent and mentioning that I used to work in retail, and got a lecture about how all of their clients are essentially retail and that a retail product is not just something you can buy in the store. He sounded almost annoyed (and arrogant) and I really didn't have a good feeling when I hung up the phone. Apparently my answers weren't too terrible because I'm supposed to email him to schedule an interview in Ft. Lauderdale. To be honest, I have reservations about the job and company and am hoping someone else will express interest soon. Never the less, I'm glad that I have the opportunity to interview somewhere and if they're willing to give me a chance when no one else will I'll be grateful.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Monday
I tried calling the "Talent Acquisition" guy from the Ft. Lauderdale agency four times today but was unable to reach him. I left a message after the fourth attempt but so far I haven't heard back. I'll try again tomorrow.
No word from any other companies.
Current Job Hunting Stats
Positions Applied to: 25
Interview Invitations: 0
Rejections: 3
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 22
Time Spent Hunting: 17 days
No word from any other companies.
Current Job Hunting Stats
Positions Applied to: 25
Interview Invitations: 0
Rejections: 3
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 22
Time Spent Hunting: 17 days
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Dare to Dream
While checking various company websites in the Charleston area, I was thrilled to discover that a local publishing company here recently posted three PR/marketing opportunities. What is even better is that is that they are the same company I interned with a little over two years ago. Considering that I interned with the company and did the very jobs they are advertising now, that I have both a B.A. in Public Relations and a M.A. in English and that I have completed two other relevant internships, one would think I have a decent-great shot a getting at least one of the jobs. The down side is that most or all of the people who might remember me have left the company. Also, I applied for a job there when I was an intern (doing the very job they needed to fill, at the very desk they needed to fill) but they never even interviewed me. Of course, I was just beginning my Master's studies then and hadn't had any other relevant experience, so maybe things will be different this time. I hope so. My husband and I would really like to stay in Charleston, but haven't been able to find many promising openings. As dangerous as it is to hope like this, I will be checking my email like crazy and my heart will skip a beat every time the phone rings.
Tomorrow I'm going to call the Ad agency in Ft. Lauderdale and see what they're about.
Tomorrow I'm going to call the Ad agency in Ft. Lauderdale and see what they're about.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
First Bite
On Friday I got a bite from a Ft. Lauderdale advertising company, my first bite in the job hunt thus far. It's a generic email response, something along the lines of :
Hello Lady Wanderlust, I received your resume and would like to speak with you regarding your credentials. Please contact me to discuss a potential opportunity within Advertising Agency. Thanks and I look forward to speaking with you!
I researched the agency, and everything seems to be on the up and up. They are something like the 15th largest agency in the country and have a number of big name clients. I applied for an entry level position, and though I wasn't really considering moving to Ft. Lauderdale, it might be something worth pursuing.
I found an article posted on the Miami Herald online, and while the article said good things, the reader response comments worry me. There are at least 15-20 comments from current or former employees claiming the agency is a terrible place to work, that the pay is low, the hours long and the staff mistreated. The comments remind me of the negative Nova comments I found when I was researching opportunities in Japan. I'll call the HR guy on Monday and see what he has to say, and perhaps travel to Ft. Lauderdale for an interview, but I'd hate to move to an unfamiliar city only to end up trapped in a miserable job. Still, it would be agency experience....
We'll see what happens.
Hello Lady Wanderlust, I received your resume and would like to speak with you regarding your credentials. Please contact me to discuss a potential opportunity within Advertising Agency. Thanks and I look forward to speaking with you!
I researched the agency, and everything seems to be on the up and up. They are something like the 15th largest agency in the country and have a number of big name clients. I applied for an entry level position, and though I wasn't really considering moving to Ft. Lauderdale, it might be something worth pursuing.
I found an article posted on the Miami Herald online, and while the article said good things, the reader response comments worry me. There are at least 15-20 comments from current or former employees claiming the agency is a terrible place to work, that the pay is low, the hours long and the staff mistreated. The comments remind me of the negative Nova comments I found when I was researching opportunities in Japan. I'll call the HR guy on Monday and see what he has to say, and perhaps travel to Ft. Lauderdale for an interview, but I'd hate to move to an unfamiliar city only to end up trapped in a miserable job. Still, it would be agency experience....
We'll see what happens.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Resume, Cover Letter
MY TYPICAL COVER LETTER:
The listing for a x on your company website immediately caught my attention as my education and skills closely match your needs.
According to the listing, prerequisites for this position include strong written and oral communication skills and public relations experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in English last December and have a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. Intensive course work in Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing and English, as well as public relations and editorial internships have allowed me to develop the excellent communication and public relation skills you require.
An important lesson I’ve learned throughout the course of my internships is that hard work is the key to success, not just a college degree (or two). Therefore, I am committed to working hard and learning as much as possible about x and the x industry. This attitude, along with my excellent communication skills and public relations experience, is what sets me above the other candidates competing for positions at your company.
Attached is my resume for your review. I would appreciate meeting with you at a suitable time to discuss the opportunity available at x Don’t hesitate to call if you need any additional information or wish to schedule an interview. Thank you.
MY TYPICAL RESUME:
My Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
EDUCATION
1/2005 – 12/2006
College of Charleston, The Citadel
Master of Arts, English
9/1998-7/2002
University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK
Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2/2007-11/2007
Nova, Tokyo, Japan
English Instructor
Taught conversational English to hundreds of students of all skill levels and age ranges
Lead preparation seminars for language efficiency tests
5/2005-1/2007
Tour Company Name, Charleston, SC
Customer Service Representative/Copywriter
Composed tour descriptions for company brochures and website
Booked and coordinated historic Charleston ghost tours for thousands of customers
8/2006 – 12/2006
Independent Newspaper Name, Charleston, SC
Editorial Intern
Researched and wrote short pieces for online and print publication
Assisted editors in researching and planning content for upcoming feature stories
Entered and organized local events in the online community calendar
4/2006 – 6/2006
City Department Name, Charleston, SC
Intern – Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival
Completed various Public Relations tasks such as composing and editing copy for event fliers, assembling media kits and working in the Piccolo Spoleto press room
Served as house manager for various festival performances which entailed the management of volunteers, box office staff and theatre coordinators
4/2005 – 6/2005
Company Name, Mt. Pleasant, SC
Marketing/Public Relations Intern
Wrote press releases, author bios and other materials for newly published company name books
Developed professional media kits featuring company name books and authors
Assembled media lists for targeted regions throughout the country
POSITIONS TO WHICH I'VE APPLIED:
Public Relations Agency, Tampa, FL (3 agencies total)
Responded to General Invitation for Resumes
Advertising Agency, Charleston, SC - Copywriter
Business Publishing Company, FL - Copywriter
Large Corporation, FL - Consulting Copy Editor
Financial Institution, FL - Financial Writer
Financial Institution, FL -Proofreader
PR/Ad Agency, SC - Copywriter
PR Agency, FL - Junior Account Executive
Temp Agency, FL - Knowledge Base Editor
Mid-America Festivals, FL - Marketing Assistant (Bay Area Renaissance Festival)
Home Shopping Network, FL - Marketing Manager
Theme Park, FL - Brand Ambassador
Temp Job, SC - Technical Proofreader
PR/Ad Agency, FL - Research Associate
Ad Agency, Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Account Executive (11/29)
Local Spa Business, FL - Marketing Coordinator (11/29)
Local Publishing Company, Charleston, SC - Marketing/Publishing Positions (12/2)
Unknown Publishing Company, Charleston, SC - Book Acquistion Manger/Marketing Assistant (12/3)
Public Relations Agency, Tampa, FL - Writer (12/3)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
PR Agency, SC
Responded to General Invitation for Resumes **REJECTED**
Television Station, FL - Communications Assistant (Applied Late) **POSITION FILLED**
Virtual Marketing/PR Firm - Junior Account Executive **NO OPEN POSITION, PASSED MY RESUME ON TO CONTACTS**
Regional Publishing Company, SC - Graduate Management Trainee (Applied Late) **POSITIONS FILLED**
The listing for a x on your company website immediately caught my attention as my education and skills closely match your needs.
According to the listing, prerequisites for this position include strong written and oral communication skills and public relations experience. I graduated with a Master’s degree in English last December and have a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. Intensive course work in Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing and English, as well as public relations and editorial internships have allowed me to develop the excellent communication and public relation skills you require.
An important lesson I’ve learned throughout the course of my internships is that hard work is the key to success, not just a college degree (or two). Therefore, I am committed to working hard and learning as much as possible about x and the x industry. This attitude, along with my excellent communication skills and public relations experience, is what sets me above the other candidates competing for positions at your company.
Attached is my resume for your review. I would appreciate meeting with you at a suitable time to discuss the opportunity available at x Don’t hesitate to call if you need any additional information or wish to schedule an interview. Thank you.
MY TYPICAL RESUME:
My Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
EDUCATION
1/2005 – 12/2006
College of Charleston, The Citadel
Master of Arts, English
9/1998-7/2002
University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK
Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2/2007-11/2007
Nova, Tokyo, Japan
English Instructor
Taught conversational English to hundreds of students of all skill levels and age ranges
Lead preparation seminars for language efficiency tests
5/2005-1/2007
Tour Company Name, Charleston, SC
Customer Service Representative/Copywriter
Composed tour descriptions for company brochures and website
Booked and coordinated historic Charleston ghost tours for thousands of customers
8/2006 – 12/2006
Independent Newspaper Name, Charleston, SC
Editorial Intern
Researched and wrote short pieces for online and print publication
Assisted editors in researching and planning content for upcoming feature stories
Entered and organized local events in the online community calendar
4/2006 – 6/2006
City Department Name, Charleston, SC
Intern – Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival
Completed various Public Relations tasks such as composing and editing copy for event fliers, assembling media kits and working in the Piccolo Spoleto press room
Served as house manager for various festival performances which entailed the management of volunteers, box office staff and theatre coordinators
4/2005 – 6/2005
Company Name, Mt. Pleasant, SC
Marketing/Public Relations Intern
Wrote press releases, author bios and other materials for newly published company name books
Developed professional media kits featuring company name books and authors
Assembled media lists for targeted regions throughout the country
POSITIONS TO WHICH I'VE APPLIED:
Public Relations Agency, Tampa, FL (3 agencies total)
Responded to General Invitation for Resumes
Advertising Agency, Charleston, SC - Copywriter
Business Publishing Company, FL - Copywriter
Large Corporation, FL - Consulting Copy Editor
Financial Institution, FL - Financial Writer
Financial Institution, FL -Proofreader
PR/Ad Agency, SC - Copywriter
PR Agency, FL - Junior Account Executive
Temp Agency, FL - Knowledge Base Editor
Mid-America Festivals, FL - Marketing Assistant (Bay Area Renaissance Festival)
Home Shopping Network, FL - Marketing Manager
Theme Park, FL - Brand Ambassador
Temp Job, SC - Technical Proofreader
PR/Ad Agency, FL - Research Associate
Ad Agency, Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Account Executive (11/29)
Local Spa Business, FL - Marketing Coordinator (11/29)
Local Publishing Company, Charleston, SC - Marketing/Publishing Positions (12/2)
Unknown Publishing Company, Charleston, SC - Book Acquistion Manger/Marketing Assistant (12/3)
Public Relations Agency, Tampa, FL - Writer (12/3)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
PR Agency, SC
Responded to General Invitation for Resumes **REJECTED**
Television Station, FL - Communications Assistant (Applied Late) **POSITION FILLED**
Virtual Marketing/PR Firm - Junior Account Executive **NO OPEN POSITION, PASSED MY RESUME ON TO CONTACTS**
Regional Publishing Company, SC - Graduate Management Trainee (Applied Late) **POSITIONS FILLED**
Why I've Created This Blog
I hate the job hunting process. The resumes, the cover letters, the anticipation of a phone call or email, the formulaic interview questions and answers, the rejection letters, the resume black holes. I can think of very little things I hate more in life, and most people I know feel the same way.
Recently, I've had to start looking for a job and I thought it would be interesting to document my job search from start to finish. How many jobs will I apply to before I get an interview invitation? How many of my resumes will be sucked into an HR black hole, never to be seen or heard from again? And the most frightening question of all, how long will it take for me to get a job? Only time, and this blog, will tell.
As of November 28, 2007, my husband and I do not have jobs. After nine months of teaching English in Japan, our employer went bust and we returned to the States to find "real" jobs and settle down. That was exactly two weeks ago. I know it hasn't been long at all, but I'm already getting anxious. It doesn't help that my husband and I need jobs NOW. In my experience, people usually find good jobs when they are not desperate for them.
I'm trying to find an entry-level public relations and/or editorial/writing/publishing position in either Charleston, SC or Tampa, FL. I have a Master's in English, a B.A. in Public Relations and three relevant internships, so it's not like I don't have anything to offer. My job history is stable, I haven't commited any crimes, I don't have any emotional or mental issues so one would think I have a decent shot at getting a good job. We'll soon find out.
One good thing has come of my job hunt so far. I recently sent a resume to a small PR/advertising agency in Charleston, and while there aren't any positions available, the owner did say I had an impressive resume and sent it on to contacts she has in the area. Unfortunately, unless I hear something soon from a potential Charleston employer in the next week or two, my husband and I are going to move back to Tampa as the job market is much more promising there. Currently we're temporarily staying at his parents' beach house in South Carolina, and while the house is nice, living with the in-laws just ain't cool.
Current Job Hunting Stats:
Positions Applied to: 20
Interview Invitations: 0
Rejections: 3
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 17
Time Spent Hunting: Twelve days
I welcome any and all comments. Please feel free to pass on any advice, criticism and job hunting gripes you might have!
Recently, I've had to start looking for a job and I thought it would be interesting to document my job search from start to finish. How many jobs will I apply to before I get an interview invitation? How many of my resumes will be sucked into an HR black hole, never to be seen or heard from again? And the most frightening question of all, how long will it take for me to get a job? Only time, and this blog, will tell.
As of November 28, 2007, my husband and I do not have jobs. After nine months of teaching English in Japan, our employer went bust and we returned to the States to find "real" jobs and settle down. That was exactly two weeks ago. I know it hasn't been long at all, but I'm already getting anxious. It doesn't help that my husband and I need jobs NOW. In my experience, people usually find good jobs when they are not desperate for them.
I'm trying to find an entry-level public relations and/or editorial/writing/publishing position in either Charleston, SC or Tampa, FL. I have a Master's in English, a B.A. in Public Relations and three relevant internships, so it's not like I don't have anything to offer. My job history is stable, I haven't commited any crimes, I don't have any emotional or mental issues so one would think I have a decent shot at getting a good job. We'll soon find out.
One good thing has come of my job hunt so far. I recently sent a resume to a small PR/advertising agency in Charleston, and while there aren't any positions available, the owner did say I had an impressive resume and sent it on to contacts she has in the area. Unfortunately, unless I hear something soon from a potential Charleston employer in the next week or two, my husband and I are going to move back to Tampa as the job market is much more promising there. Currently we're temporarily staying at his parents' beach house in South Carolina, and while the house is nice, living with the in-laws just ain't cool.
Current Job Hunting Stats:
Positions Applied to: 20
Interview Invitations: 0
Rejections: 3
Resumes Currently Floating in the HR Void: 17
Time Spent Hunting: Twelve days
I welcome any and all comments. Please feel free to pass on any advice, criticism and job hunting gripes you might have!
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