Seeking Advice (UK)
Background: I’ve been in recruitment since 2017, working in both agency and in-house roles. My last two positions had salaries between £36k and £37k, but I’m now back on the job market after finishing a contract.
This experience has been incredibly challenging. I’ve applied for hundreds of jobs in my city and had several interviews, but I’ve consistently lost out to candidates who have something extra to offer.
Most of the current job listings I’ve seen are in the mid £20k range. I started my career at £23k in 2017, and recently an agency wasted my time by presenting a role that pays £25k—this is particularly frustrating given that one of my previous roles was as a Recruitment Manager.
I’m feeling quite lost at this point. I’ve tried every strategy I can think of, and since March, I’ve only managed to secure a couple of temporary positions.
If you have any recommendations or advice, I would greatly appreciate it. I feel like I’m struggling to stay afloat. Thank you!
RCadmin
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way; job searching can be incredibly stressful, especially in the current market. Here are a few suggestions that might help:
Reassess Your Job Criteria: Given the salary differences you’re experiencing, you might consider broadening your job criteria. Are there roles that you might not have initially considered but that could align with your skills? Sometimes lateral moves can lead to better opportunities down the line.
Networking: Leverage your existing network. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or industry contacts to let them know you’re looking. Networking can sometimes lead to unadvertised roles or valuable insider information about openings.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn: Ensure that your CV and LinkedIn profile highlight your achievements and specific results in previous roles, especially in recruitment. Quantifiable achievements can make a difference.
Seek Temporary or Contract Roles: While it may not be ideal, temp or contract roles can provide immediate income and help you expand your network. They can often lead to full-time opportunities if you prove yourself.
Consider Upskilling: Look into courses or certifications that are in demand in recruitment or adjacent fields. Additional skills may set you apart from other candidates and make you more appealing to potential employers.
Feedback from Interviews: If possible, ask for feedback after interviews, especially if you make it to the last round. Understanding what they felt you were lacking can help you address those areas in future applications.
Recruitment Agencies: While you’ve had mixed experiences with agencies, some specialize in higher-level roles. It might be worth finding a few that focus specifically on your experience level and industry.
Mental Health: Job hunting can take a toll on your mental health. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Stay Active: Maintain a routine and stay active, whether through exercise or hobbies. This can improve your mood and help keep the job search from feeling all-consuming.
Patience and Persistence: It can be tough, but try to stay patient and persistent. Sometimes, it just takes time to find the right fit.
Remember, you’re not alone in this struggle, and seeking out support can make a big difference. Good luck—you’ve got this!