This post is rather late! Sorry about that. The job centre was as always, eventful!
As usual, I arrived early and had to stay downstairs for about 10 minutes - saw someone who went to my school, pregnant with apparently her third child. When I think about how awful I think my life is, I consider being 21 with a third baby on the way - nightmare! Printed some interesting jobs off but only found like two appropriate jobs in like 18 pages..... awkward.
So apparently, when you're given your appointment time, you can show up anytime within the next fifteen minutes. This is why I am always sat waiting to see someone for at least 25 minutes after my allotted time because some people don't turn up till like two minutes before their appointment time ends. It actually amazes me how much it is drilled into me that I shouldn't be late to my appointments because it could affect my benefits... I've never been late, so I have kept to my job seekers agreement, but surely it isn't right to leave people sitting there for half an hour because they have stupid rules about show up anytime in these fifteen minutes. I understand that people's circumstances may mean that they may be late, but someone who is taking their situation seriously will show up on time and not mess about. For me, that rule is for the people who just rock up whenever they damn feel like it.
My appointment was 1.45pm, I didn't get called through to see an adviser until 2.13pm...(yeah, I noted the time) I wasn't amused. Some guy went and complained because he'd been waiting fifteen minutes, I just sat there smirking thinking wait till you've been here like half an hour and then get your moan on!
The woman I saw was fine, you know, just fine. Informed her that I was doing some voluntary work and doing a creative writing class - she had a right shit fit at me panicking about the different forms I would have to fill out. These forms are just to clarify if you are receiving any money from what you are doing. Well, I am getting nothing. The creative writing course I found is being put on by Hull Library and free, also the voluntary work I am doing says it in the job title 'voluntary work' - I am working as a cafe helper in a church for three hours every OTHER weekend. I am working completely off my own back - so basically all the paperwork is bullshit! Furthermore, I was told that the person who was hosting the creative writing class would have to write a letter explaining what it is we do, and how long the class lasts etc. I may turn up on Wednesday and say that he refused to write it because it's stupid. Hmm. Maybe not.
So basically, you can't be a good person and do voluntary work without a mass of suspicion and if you take a class that's FREE they want to know everything about it otherwise it could affect your benefits. I really don't know where the job centre get their cheek you know, knobs.
As always, comments are welcome.
Or, Tweet me loves, @DebStevo90 :)
Showing posts with label #graduate #unemployment #million #youth #jobs #careers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #graduate #unemployment #million #youth #jobs #careers. Show all posts
Monday, 1 October 2012
The Stigma Of Being A JSA Claimer.
Now, I understand that it is infuriating if you're a hard working person and you feel most of your money goes on tax, I am pretty sure that when I start earning a wage, I will have a jolly old grumble at it. I think it's my dads favorite hobbie sometimes! Ha. Although when did it become acceptable to just assume that EVERYONE is a lazy claimer. This is the unfortunate stigma of looking for work, people assume you are exactly the same as someone who writes their shopping list on their paperwork and isn't taking the job search seriously enough. I've been so stressed about finding work, I've been in a state some days because it seems like I can't catch a break.
We're in a shitty economy, in Hull there is an average of 88 people chasing every job - it's tough, really tough.
I understand the annoyance at some people who are given the money and don't make any concerted effort to look for work - we can all tut at them can't we? My point is, I am actively seeking work, I am doing what I can to look for work, and yet I am still placed within the stigma of people who claim Job Seekers Allowance but don't really do anything. I understand the system is flawed but I am actually doing something to find work, and I can't wait to be doing something full time because I am going stair shit crazy from not.
I apply for at least 5 jobs per week, I look everyday, I've always got new windows open with opportunities on it. I applied to be a Christmas elf for Christ sake! Most posts I can't apply for because I don't have the experience, that's something I can't help. But, I am not going to apply for it, knowing I will be rejected (again) just so that people will get off my back. If I don't have what they want, I don't have it. Simple.
I don't think people who've never visited the Job Centre understand that actually, it's pretty dire and embarrassing. I waited as long as I could before I put in my claim - I was told "no Debs, put your claim in as soon as you leave university..." and yet I waited, I still had some money left from my student loans, so I thought, in the early stages of my job search, I can just live from that. But as it usually does, it doesn't last forever. So, when I made my claim, it was only because I just couldn't without it. But like most people, I want to be off job seekers allowance as soon as possible.
This post was sparked by hearing moaning about it on the radio, it's damn ignorant to stereotype every unemployed person as being lazy and not wanting to find work.
So, to everyone who is out of work, good luck, it is hard but you just have to keep looking and taking opportunities where they are given.
Comments? Always welcome.
Twitter, @DebStevo90
We're in a shitty economy, in Hull there is an average of 88 people chasing every job - it's tough, really tough.
I understand the annoyance at some people who are given the money and don't make any concerted effort to look for work - we can all tut at them can't we? My point is, I am actively seeking work, I am doing what I can to look for work, and yet I am still placed within the stigma of people who claim Job Seekers Allowance but don't really do anything. I understand the system is flawed but I am actually doing something to find work, and I can't wait to be doing something full time because I am going stair shit crazy from not.
I apply for at least 5 jobs per week, I look everyday, I've always got new windows open with opportunities on it. I applied to be a Christmas elf for Christ sake! Most posts I can't apply for because I don't have the experience, that's something I can't help. But, I am not going to apply for it, knowing I will be rejected (again) just so that people will get off my back. If I don't have what they want, I don't have it. Simple.
I don't think people who've never visited the Job Centre understand that actually, it's pretty dire and embarrassing. I waited as long as I could before I put in my claim - I was told "no Debs, put your claim in as soon as you leave university..." and yet I waited, I still had some money left from my student loans, so I thought, in the early stages of my job search, I can just live from that. But as it usually does, it doesn't last forever. So, when I made my claim, it was only because I just couldn't without it. But like most people, I want to be off job seekers allowance as soon as possible.
This post was sparked by hearing moaning about it on the radio, it's damn ignorant to stereotype every unemployed person as being lazy and not wanting to find work.
So, to everyone who is out of work, good luck, it is hard but you just have to keep looking and taking opportunities where they are given.
Comments? Always welcome.
Twitter, @DebStevo90
Monday, 3 September 2012
Ways to improve your CV without having to travel the world, spending money you don't have!
I recently read an article on grads which angered me somewhat; it suggested that one of the ways to improve your CV was to travel the world. Now, don’t get me wrong, it is a great way to improve your CV and your life but it’s an expenditure which could be avoided. You will still get a decent job whether you backpacked round Australia or not, unless you worked whilst you backpacked, you’ve just travelled. I’ve travelled too, to London to buy a Heat magazine.
Furthermore, this article also suggested that one ‘study abroad’ – an unachievable situation if you attend a university which doesn’t offer the chance to go to America for a term, or to wander the streets of Paris… It would be nice if there were, but most courses simply don’t.
Anyhow;
Actually look at your CV.
Spend time looking at your CV – ask yourself “does this need to be here?” “Could I expand on this?” I found that I hadn’t spent enough time discussing how certain jobs have improved certain skills I have, I just discussed my role. In fact, I removed the bullet points with the different roles I did, and wrote about the skills which I had gained through the role. Furthermore, your CV needs to be visually attractive – and by this I mean, you need to maximise the space you use. From other blogs and CV pages I’ve read, it is said that a CV should be no longer than two pages long, anything longer and you’ve lost your audience. Keep everything concise, appropriate and clean. And by clean, I mean don’t over complicate what you’re actually trying to say.
Example 1; “My duties included taking food orders, washing pots and delivering food to customer’s tables. Furthermore, I gained experience with handling cash and using a till to handle customer’s final bills.” This was the original statement; it is messy and doesn’t explain much about what I’ve gained.
Example 2; “My role as a waitress allowed me to interact with the public, take orders and deliver food to customer’s tables. Furthermore, this role also allowed me to gain experience using a till, and the importance of having excellent customer service skills” This is the new statement, I believe that the statement is more concise, explains the different duties I had and explained the experience gained and learned whilst working as a waitress.
Volunteer.
It sounds cliché, it really does but volunteering really does help! Although if you work you don’t have the time to give to volunteer – but maybe whilst you search for work, you can give up an afternoon a week to get involved with a charity. Every little helps after all. You’ll be learning some new skills, networking and helping others in the process. I used the country wide website www.do-it.org.uk the website is so useful, and you can search for the area which you’d liked to volunteer in. I just searched for opportunities near me. I would recommend applying for a few positions as there is no guarantee you’ll get the position and some places only require your assistance one morning or afternoon a week, so you have time to commit to other projects. Don’t be put off but positions which you think may not give you experience that you want – you don’t know what you’re going to gain until you’re there. Many times when you’re working for charities they offer you free training, such as first aid – which is such a useful skill. Volunteer you way into work!
When I think of more ways... this will be updated!
Enjoy.
Comments are welcome, as are tweets! @DebStevo90
"this ain't a game of cat and mouse"
Deborah :)x
Tuesday, 28 August 2012
Job Centre - update about the 22/08/2012
So today I got a phone call from a lovely woman at the job centre. This woman was ringing to apologize for the lack of communication among her staff last week in regard to me. She could not have been more apologetic! I said it was fine, I was just frustrated because I hadn't been informed and then when I said I was unable to work to what they had rearranged, I looked like a fussy bitch!
ANYHOW, so she's ringing me for another reason - to cancel the bloody appointment set up for me last week because there was now no point because they had missed their targets. It's all about targets in these places, what if this group session had been valuable to me finding work huh? Didn't think about that one did ya Dave!
So, instead of me having to go to this session tomorrow, I am now back to seeing my adviser in a weeks time! What an utter mess about eh! I can't complain about this woman on the phone because she couldn't have been nicer and explained that none of what had happened was my fault (TRU DAT) but that her team made a "monumental cock-up" (again, tru dat).
I also told her I don't want to become one of the notorious (bursts into song) job seekers who week after week causes problems because this wasn't my fault and I was hoping to not have any more incidents like this. She told me that what happened wasn't even a mark on my record, she had to ring to make sure that everyone was clear that it was their fault. When I put the phone down I just laughed and laughed thinking, there is no wonder this country is up shit creek when the people they hire to help you find a job don't even have a bloody clue what they're doing.
Anyhow, there will be no post tomorrow like I said there would be, next week though (5th)!
Enjoy!
Deborah.
Remember, comments are always welcome.
Or, give me a tweeeet! @DebStevo90
ANYHOW, so she's ringing me for another reason - to cancel the bloody appointment set up for me last week because there was now no point because they had missed their targets. It's all about targets in these places, what if this group session had been valuable to me finding work huh? Didn't think about that one did ya Dave!
So, instead of me having to go to this session tomorrow, I am now back to seeing my adviser in a weeks time! What an utter mess about eh! I can't complain about this woman on the phone because she couldn't have been nicer and explained that none of what had happened was my fault (TRU DAT) but that her team made a "monumental cock-up" (again, tru dat).
I also told her I don't want to become one of the notorious (bursts into song) job seekers who week after week causes problems because this wasn't my fault and I was hoping to not have any more incidents like this. She told me that what happened wasn't even a mark on my record, she had to ring to make sure that everyone was clear that it was their fault. When I put the phone down I just laughed and laughed thinking, there is no wonder this country is up shit creek when the people they hire to help you find a job don't even have a bloody clue what they're doing.
Anyhow, there will be no post tomorrow like I said there would be, next week though (5th)!
Enjoy!
Deborah.
Remember, comments are always welcome.
Or, give me a tweeeet! @DebStevo90
Why it is in fact, always dull in Hull!
Now, before everyone thinks I am going to bitch about Hull... that's just not the case. I love my city, I really do, and anything I could do to find a job here, I would. I want to stay in East Yorkshire because it's home, but Hull is the hardest place in the UK to find a job. Although, I already knew this statistic, someone linked it to me on Facebook earlier, he noted I might find it interesting... there is a part of me which thinks he was maybe trying to rub this in... you know who you are :P.
Hull for the second year running is the hardest place in the UK to find a job with roughly 80 people applying per job. However, the easiest place to find a job in the UK is Aberdeen with 1 person applying for each job - the actual statistic is 0.88 - so sometimes, not even one person applying! The difference between the two locations is unbelievable. It could be suggested that Aberdeen don't even know we're in a recession...
The article seems to suggest that there is a north/south divide - to some extent there is a divide but when the best city to find a job in is SCOTLAND, i think the divide is flawed somehow.
Poor Hull, always the top of some leader board, and never ever for the right reasons. I feel bad for a city like Hull because any other major city is a good hour away in the car so commuting is a difficult decision whereas say you lived in Leeds - you get on the motorway you've Huddersfield, Wakefield, Bradford, Sheffield, York and Manchester, 6 cities/large towns in under 50 minutes away. Hull is at the end of the motorway, blocked off by the Humber - when it was a major fishing port, it was thriving but it has continued to struggle decade after decade.
"Worst place in the UK to find a job"
"Worst place to live in the UK!" - How would you know? You visited it ONCE - suck it, dickhead!
Oh dear.
As always, your comments are appreciated. So please, leave one!
If not, you can tweet me @DebStevo90
Enjoy!
Deborah! :D
Hull for the second year running is the hardest place in the UK to find a job with roughly 80 people applying per job. However, the easiest place to find a job in the UK is Aberdeen with 1 person applying for each job - the actual statistic is 0.88 - so sometimes, not even one person applying! The difference between the two locations is unbelievable. It could be suggested that Aberdeen don't even know we're in a recession...
The article seems to suggest that there is a north/south divide - to some extent there is a divide but when the best city to find a job in is SCOTLAND, i think the divide is flawed somehow.
Poor Hull, always the top of some leader board, and never ever for the right reasons. I feel bad for a city like Hull because any other major city is a good hour away in the car so commuting is a difficult decision whereas say you lived in Leeds - you get on the motorway you've Huddersfield, Wakefield, Bradford, Sheffield, York and Manchester, 6 cities/large towns in under 50 minutes away. Hull is at the end of the motorway, blocked off by the Humber - when it was a major fishing port, it was thriving but it has continued to struggle decade after decade.
"Worst place in the UK to find a job"
"Worst place to live in the UK!" - How would you know? You visited it ONCE - suck it, dickhead!
Oh dear.
As always, your comments are appreciated. So please, leave one!
If not, you can tweet me @DebStevo90
Enjoy!
Deborah! :D
Friday, 24 August 2012
Tempest Elite Marketing...
Oh noo! My friend had an interview with 'Tempest Elite Marketing' yesterday! I was just on Twitter yesterday and my friend tweeted that she was on her way to an interview! Excitedly I replied, "good luck! Where at?xx", her reply just filled me with doom, "marketing company in Hull!Ahh scary" - my reply, "it's not tempest elite marketing is it?" :[
And from there, I explained how I had also interviewed for them and how they sell you this big idea, trying to sell the job to you, not you selling yourself to the job. It's a very odd situation - pretty sure the people I know who have interviewed for them will agree.
So anyways, this morning, my friend links her blog post about it to her Twitter, I wasn't surprised by what she had written, she had noticed things that I had failed to mention in my original blog post about them.
Anyhow, give it a read here... http://thelifethatiswaiting.blogspot.co.uk/ @HollyBellUK
Remember, comments and feedback are welcome! @DebStevo90 :)
One tip; just don't even apply with them! Unless you're well up for pounding the pavements!!
Deborah xx
And from there, I explained how I had also interviewed for them and how they sell you this big idea, trying to sell the job to you, not you selling yourself to the job. It's a very odd situation - pretty sure the people I know who have interviewed for them will agree.
So anyways, this morning, my friend links her blog post about it to her Twitter, I wasn't surprised by what she had written, she had noticed things that I had failed to mention in my original blog post about them.
Anyhow, give it a read here... http://thelifethatiswaiting.blogspot.co.uk/ @HollyBellUK
Remember, comments and feedback are welcome! @DebStevo90 :)
One tip; just don't even apply with them! Unless you're well up for pounding the pavements!!
Deborah xx
Wednesday, 22 August 2012
Job Centre, 22/08/2012
Communication is the key. For some reason, the job centre don't agree with this statement and none of the staff at the branch I visit seem to have a blummin' clue what they're suppose to be doing.
On my first visit, I was told that I would have to attend a young people's work shop - a presentation which would last about 20 minutes. I didn't resent going, I thought I may get something out of it, and if I didn't, it's only 20 minutes out of my day. However, what I do resent is being lied to and the lack of communication in that place. I was then told on my second visit that no, no I wouldn't be going to the group session, I would in fact be going to see my adviser. "Oh, okay then" I arrived today, with time to spare because apparently, being late can affect your benefits, what a load of Betty Crocker - they seem to just have their rules and don't consider people's situations. So I arrived today, in plenty of time, and was told "NO, I wouldn't be seeing my adviser I would in fact be going to the group session"... I stood there thinking "WTF!" - sort it out.
So waiting to be called through, I was thinking, "it'll be fine, it's only twenty minutes!", was called through and then informed, "no, no this won't be last twenty minutes, this is going to last an hour..." Ere whatttt! So not only have you messed me about but I am going to have to stay three times longer than what the original plan said.
I had my nephew to pick up, it was a family thing, everyone has them don't they - again, no consideration for your personal situations. I thought I would have enough time after my appointment to get to him just outside of town, I wouldn't have if I had of stayed. But they just don't get that, if you're the only person who can do it then why should I be penalized for it. I can't just forget my responsibilities, Jesus, you're judged if you do bring your kids to job centre, and you're judged if you have to leave to get them. Getting childcare for a twenty minute appointment is expensive and unnecessary but then again, they don't give a shit about that do they. Because they hold the power, they can stop your benefits whenever they want.
I got it rearranged but was informed that as I am not a primary carer, it could affect my benefits. The urge to tell them to F-off was high but decided to just thank them for their co-operation and I'd see them next week. I was told that I should basically keep my entire day free when I know I am at job centre, unfortunately, I refuse to allow a visit to the job centre rule my entire Wednesday every other week, when I am there for twenty minutes. That's just ridiculous I told 'Dom' - who actually took time to look through my benefits sheet to see what I had written.
Well, it wouldn't bother me having to go to this appointment but I just wish that the staff at Market Place Hull would sort their shit out, stop messing people about, know who you're suppose to be seeing and don't just change things for the fudging fun of it.
Something that was pointed out to me today was that there seem to be more G4S staff (security) working the doors than actual staff trying to find people bloody jobs. The day I come back to here and write that I felt it went really good, and that my adviser (who I am yet to meet!!!!) has found me a great job, then I'll admit defeat, admit that I was wrong. But right now, the only thing they are, are useless utter morons who obviously don't know whether they're coming or going.
So, I would say that today's trip to the job centre has been less than successful, anyhow, I've got to go back next Wednesday for the group session - hopefully, it will be alright! (I hope)
Any who,
You don't agree?
You do?
Let me know @DebStevo90
or, leave a comment!
On my first visit, I was told that I would have to attend a young people's work shop - a presentation which would last about 20 minutes. I didn't resent going, I thought I may get something out of it, and if I didn't, it's only 20 minutes out of my day. However, what I do resent is being lied to and the lack of communication in that place. I was then told on my second visit that no, no I wouldn't be going to the group session, I would in fact be going to see my adviser. "Oh, okay then" I arrived today, with time to spare because apparently, being late can affect your benefits, what a load of Betty Crocker - they seem to just have their rules and don't consider people's situations. So I arrived today, in plenty of time, and was told "NO, I wouldn't be seeing my adviser I would in fact be going to the group session"... I stood there thinking "WTF!" - sort it out.
So waiting to be called through, I was thinking, "it'll be fine, it's only twenty minutes!", was called through and then informed, "no, no this won't be last twenty minutes, this is going to last an hour..." Ere whatttt! So not only have you messed me about but I am going to have to stay three times longer than what the original plan said.
I had my nephew to pick up, it was a family thing, everyone has them don't they - again, no consideration for your personal situations. I thought I would have enough time after my appointment to get to him just outside of town, I wouldn't have if I had of stayed. But they just don't get that, if you're the only person who can do it then why should I be penalized for it. I can't just forget my responsibilities, Jesus, you're judged if you do bring your kids to job centre, and you're judged if you have to leave to get them. Getting childcare for a twenty minute appointment is expensive and unnecessary but then again, they don't give a shit about that do they. Because they hold the power, they can stop your benefits whenever they want.
I got it rearranged but was informed that as I am not a primary carer, it could affect my benefits. The urge to tell them to F-off was high but decided to just thank them for their co-operation and I'd see them next week. I was told that I should basically keep my entire day free when I know I am at job centre, unfortunately, I refuse to allow a visit to the job centre rule my entire Wednesday every other week, when I am there for twenty minutes. That's just ridiculous I told 'Dom' - who actually took time to look through my benefits sheet to see what I had written.
Well, it wouldn't bother me having to go to this appointment but I just wish that the staff at Market Place Hull would sort their shit out, stop messing people about, know who you're suppose to be seeing and don't just change things for the fudging fun of it.
Something that was pointed out to me today was that there seem to be more G4S staff (security) working the doors than actual staff trying to find people bloody jobs. The day I come back to here and write that I felt it went really good, and that my adviser (who I am yet to meet!!!!) has found me a great job, then I'll admit defeat, admit that I was wrong. But right now, the only thing they are, are useless utter morons who obviously don't know whether they're coming or going.
So, I would say that today's trip to the job centre has been less than successful, anyhow, I've got to go back next Wednesday for the group session - hopefully, it will be alright! (I hope)
Any who,
You don't agree?
You do?
Let me know @DebStevo90
or, leave a comment!
Friday, 17 August 2012
Work Experience.
Currently, I am filling out an application for WORK EXPERIENCE. I remember a day when you could just ring somewhere up and ask if you could go in and do a weeks worth of experience, and now I am filling in an application form like I am applying for a job.
I feel incredibly frustrated because I know for a fact that if I did get offered the chance to do any experience, it would be somewhere in London, and I just know I wouldn't be able to afford to go. I somehow don't think job centre will be offering to put me up somewhere in London for a couple of weeks, no way. I feel like I am just moaning and it is all part and parcel of applying for work, but my god, does it have to be so flipping tedious? I can't really apply to any work experience programs around here because there just aren't the resources here in the field I want to approach working in. *sigh*
How is everyone else getting on, have you applied for work experience? Are you getting extra costs paid for by the company or the job centre? I need to look into this further, find out what JSA will allow me to do.
As always, your comments are always welcome.. good or bad! Contact me on the Twitters if you wish @DebStevo90 :)
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Deborah. :)x
I feel incredibly frustrated because I know for a fact that if I did get offered the chance to do any experience, it would be somewhere in London, and I just know I wouldn't be able to afford to go. I somehow don't think job centre will be offering to put me up somewhere in London for a couple of weeks, no way. I feel like I am just moaning and it is all part and parcel of applying for work, but my god, does it have to be so flipping tedious? I can't really apply to any work experience programs around here because there just aren't the resources here in the field I want to approach working in. *sigh*
How is everyone else getting on, have you applied for work experience? Are you getting extra costs paid for by the company or the job centre? I need to look into this further, find out what JSA will allow me to do.
As always, your comments are always welcome.. good or bad! Contact me on the Twitters if you wish @DebStevo90 :)
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Deborah. :)x
Thursday, 16 August 2012
Being Unemployed.
I have to ask, how do people do it?
I have been left university three months. Fair enough, my course didn't require a lot of contact time, but I was working a lot whilst at home so it wasn't like I wasn't getting anything done and just sitting, doing nothing. But now, now I am unemployed, in £18,00 worth of debt and find myself asking, why am I even bothering to get up today? It's really hitting me now, how incredibly hard the job market is.
I sat looking at a job advertisement, genuinely ANGRY this morning, thinking to myself, why can you not just write what the job actually is?! Instead of outlining all the 'incredible benefits' which one will never receive. Furthermore, why when writing the title for a job instead of writing, "Graduate Marketing Executive" why don't they write "Cold Calling C**t" instead. Sorry for my harsh language there, but the alliteration worked ;)
I know research shows the work is the biggest cause of stress, but I think right now I would rather be stressed because of work than because I can't quite decide what mundane piece of shit to watch on day time TV. I am losing my mind right now, I cannot apply for any more positions where I am walking into an all commission based position. I don't want to work on commission, so why the hell should I?
I want, I need, I want, I need a job. *Insert long winded sigh here*
Please tell me that others, graduate or not, are in my position? Being unemployed is driving you bat shit crazy?!?
As always, give me a tweet if you want, @DebStevo90 or just leave a comment. You know the drill!
Thanks for reading!
Deborah :)x
I have been left university three months. Fair enough, my course didn't require a lot of contact time, but I was working a lot whilst at home so it wasn't like I wasn't getting anything done and just sitting, doing nothing. But now, now I am unemployed, in £18,00 worth of debt and find myself asking, why am I even bothering to get up today? It's really hitting me now, how incredibly hard the job market is.
I sat looking at a job advertisement, genuinely ANGRY this morning, thinking to myself, why can you not just write what the job actually is?! Instead of outlining all the 'incredible benefits' which one will never receive. Furthermore, why when writing the title for a job instead of writing, "Graduate Marketing Executive" why don't they write "Cold Calling C**t" instead. Sorry for my harsh language there, but the alliteration worked ;)
I know research shows the work is the biggest cause of stress, but I think right now I would rather be stressed because of work than because I can't quite decide what mundane piece of shit to watch on day time TV. I am losing my mind right now, I cannot apply for any more positions where I am walking into an all commission based position. I don't want to work on commission, so why the hell should I?
I want, I need, I want, I need a job. *Insert long winded sigh here*
Please tell me that others, graduate or not, are in my position? Being unemployed is driving you bat shit crazy?!?
As always, give me a tweet if you want, @DebStevo90 or just leave a comment. You know the drill!
Thanks for reading!
Deborah :)x
Wednesday, 15 August 2012
FEEDBACK!
Hi everyone,
Hope you're enjoying what I've been writing! I've been getting some great responses from people about the blog, it's so nice to have people support you! Thank you to everyone who has given me feedback be it good, bad, or constructive. Please don't hesitate about leaving comments! Please do, I would love to read what you think, or you can contact me on Twitter... @DebStevo90
I look forward to hearing from you! :)
Deborah!x
Hope you're enjoying what I've been writing! I've been getting some great responses from people about the blog, it's so nice to have people support you! Thank you to everyone who has given me feedback be it good, bad, or constructive. Please don't hesitate about leaving comments! Please do, I would love to read what you think, or you can contact me on Twitter... @DebStevo90
I look forward to hearing from you! :)
Deborah!x
The Benefits of Claiming Job Seekers Allowance.
Now, you may see the title and assume I am going to launch into how to fiddle the system.. that's absolutely not the case. Obviously right now everyone who is unemployed will be facing the daunting 'requirements' that we're faced with when reading a job application. Either, not the right qualifications or not enough experience... *sigh*
I posted yesterday about how the government are going to inject one billion pounds into helping young people get back into work, or offering them the opportunity to gain skills through work placements. However, I was thinking about this not long ago, one skill I don't have which I would like is to be able to speak a language. Now, I've got history with languages - we don't get on, at all. Nearly ruined university for me because of it. Anyhow, that's another story.
I was looking into taking a French course, because I know quite a bit of the basics, so I figured that would help me settle into it and hopefully understand a little more. I looked at doing a course through the BBC because it was online and free - but it looks strange and a bit awkward so I wouldn't recommend it to be honest. After some exploring on my local councils website and knowing that there is an adult education centre located in my old secondary school - I sought out what courses they offer. Not everything to be honest, but there are a range across the many locations within the council, some further away than one would like, but hey ho!
However, to my surprise, I was excited to learn if you claim JSA you are eligible to do the course for free! I think there may be limitations to what courses you can do for free, but I think if you explain how it will benefit you looking for a job, I think that the Job Centre are willing to send the payment through for it. I guess it shows gumption and the fact you are trying different tactics to find work, and gaining new skills which employers would be foolish to ignore as a positive. When I next attend the Job Centre - I am going to ask about doing a French for beginners course because I think being able to speak a language will set me apart from other candidates.
We shall see!
Thanks for reading!
Deborah. :)
I posted yesterday about how the government are going to inject one billion pounds into helping young people get back into work, or offering them the opportunity to gain skills through work placements. However, I was thinking about this not long ago, one skill I don't have which I would like is to be able to speak a language. Now, I've got history with languages - we don't get on, at all. Nearly ruined university for me because of it. Anyhow, that's another story.
I was looking into taking a French course, because I know quite a bit of the basics, so I figured that would help me settle into it and hopefully understand a little more. I looked at doing a course through the BBC because it was online and free - but it looks strange and a bit awkward so I wouldn't recommend it to be honest. After some exploring on my local councils website and knowing that there is an adult education centre located in my old secondary school - I sought out what courses they offer. Not everything to be honest, but there are a range across the many locations within the council, some further away than one would like, but hey ho!
However, to my surprise, I was excited to learn if you claim JSA you are eligible to do the course for free! I think there may be limitations to what courses you can do for free, but I think if you explain how it will benefit you looking for a job, I think that the Job Centre are willing to send the payment through for it. I guess it shows gumption and the fact you are trying different tactics to find work, and gaining new skills which employers would be foolish to ignore as a positive. When I next attend the Job Centre - I am going to ask about doing a French for beginners course because I think being able to speak a language will set me apart from other candidates.
We shall see!
Thanks for reading!
Deborah. :)
Tuesday, 14 August 2012
"A quick fix scheme for Youth Unemployment"
Below is my first article writing for www.grads.co.uk, I've been lucky enough to be given the opportunity to write for their blog. Check it out as there are some great posts on there for those still in university and those who are ending their higher education career. Hope you enjoy it! Remember, any questions or comments, ask me on Twitter.. @DebStevo90 or LinkedIn.. http://www.linkedin.com/pub/deborah-stevenson/55/779/38
Enjoy,
Deborah!
"Youth unemployment is a huge issue in the United Kingdom and in fact, all over Europe. The under 25’s are some of the most vulnerable and least likely to find work in the current double dip recession. Only a select number of countries have been able to reduce youth unemployment during the global recession, Germany being the main contender by reducing their unemployment from 11.4% in 2007 to 7.9% in 2012.
However, our deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg recently revealed plans for a ‘youth contract scheme’ in England, Scotland and Wales which will see the Government inject one billion pounds into helping young people back into work. The scheme will aid those with fewer skills in getting back into work placement programmes to help them gain skills more attractive to prospective employers. Although the scheme is attractive to me – as one of the many under 25’s out of work – I must ask; how can they justify spending the kind of money that will needed to subsidize this scheme?
It was announced that firms would be awarded an incentive of around £2500 towards the salary of each graduate they took on but again, how are we funding this? Nevertheless – it’s a great scheme. One that I am still slightly sceptical about, but if it gets the next generation back into work and learning new skills; I guess it is positive all round. The money that Clegg has promised to inject into the scheme, also sees to it that a number of eight week placements are to be available on demand, something which was introduced to me when I visited the Job Centre this week – you can just pick and choose what you want to do and it’s all expenses paid (within reason, of course..)."
Thursday, 9 August 2012
The Job Centre 08/08/2012
Yesterdays visit to the job centre was as expected a thrilling and eye opening visit. I really got a lot from the visit, ahem (not). I felt absolutely shocking before I left home so turning up to job centre with a banging headache wasn't a good position to be in. I just wanted to crawl back into bed and sleep the day away. As usual for an important appointment I was early - shouldn't have bothered as I was sat there for at least twenty minutes before I was seen. (this did not make me feel better)
Am I the only person who thinks it's really inappropriate to bring children to the job centre? I understand that there are some circumstances which it can't be helped, but really, you'd try and get someone to look after them whilst you have your meeting. The reason I mentioned kids is because a youngish man came in with his son who was about 2/3 years old. Fair enough he was really well behaved and wasn't annoying, but sitting there I noticed the man using the camera on his phone to take photos of him and his son. "Cheeeese" this child was saying, I thought to myself, ahh yes, that'll be the perfect screen saver... "ooh heres one of me and Damien sitting in dole office" "we simply must get this framed" says his girlfriend, "good memories" he replies. No no no no no!
FINALLY. I get called up. I couldn't believe it, I walked over to the desk and there was someone from my school. THE SHAME. She was friendly enough and sympathized with me over my crappy interview last week. The entire time I sat there I just thought, "oh my lordy, this is mortifying." The girl had a very quick look at my extensive descriptions on what I had done since I last visited the job centre. I felt quite let down about that because I put alot of time and effort into it to show that I have been looking, where and how the scenarios where turning out. And what did I get for my time and effort? A two second glance and a signature, WELL THANKS A BUNCH. I won't be putting in that effort again - not when they don't give me anything back. Screw that.
I was told I was attending an interview next time I was in. YOU WHAT WOMAN. I was never told this I told her but apparently the man downstairs got it wrong... Jesus, there is this thing called communication, USE IT. I was then told of the eight week placements that can be set up for me, there was nothing that I really really want to do but I saw something which I thought might be a valuable skill in the future.
So I am applying to somewhere which may require an interview, you what? You're just going to make me tea bitch (nice made in Chelsea reference for everyone there) for eight weeks, don't insult my intelligence. The volunteer guy seemed nice enough and seemed to realize that I wasn't just there to claim, I genuinely want a job but I didn't expect him to say that out loud. He said "look most people who come in here don't have any skills and we wouldn't refer them to a position like this because basically they're too stupid to do it" - I've paraphrased that, it's been 24 hours, I've been ill. I can't remember word for word! Oh dear - what a bitch eh?
"I'll come to you love" "I bet you say that to all the boys" were the next strange moments on my awkward visit, speaking on the phone to someone else in the centre, the 'volunteer guy' sat and flirted with her over the phone for a good five minutes. Sat there the entire time trying not to vomit all over him - not over the flirting, over not being well. Wouldn't that have been a good ending, "I am judging your flirting over the phone by vomming all over your desk... see ya next time!" AWKS.
So, I am applying to do some admin placement, we'll see if I get an interview to be tea bitch yeah? How is everyone else coping in this poor economy? How have you found getting a job? Can your experiences give mine a run for its money. Leave comments, or contact me on Twitter at; @DebStevo90 :) Always welcome comments of any kind - positive or negative.
Thanks guys.
Deborah :) x
Am I the only person who thinks it's really inappropriate to bring children to the job centre? I understand that there are some circumstances which it can't be helped, but really, you'd try and get someone to look after them whilst you have your meeting. The reason I mentioned kids is because a youngish man came in with his son who was about 2/3 years old. Fair enough he was really well behaved and wasn't annoying, but sitting there I noticed the man using the camera on his phone to take photos of him and his son. "Cheeeese" this child was saying, I thought to myself, ahh yes, that'll be the perfect screen saver... "ooh heres one of me and Damien sitting in dole office" "we simply must get this framed" says his girlfriend, "good memories" he replies. No no no no no!
FINALLY. I get called up. I couldn't believe it, I walked over to the desk and there was someone from my school. THE SHAME. She was friendly enough and sympathized with me over my crappy interview last week. The entire time I sat there I just thought, "oh my lordy, this is mortifying." The girl had a very quick look at my extensive descriptions on what I had done since I last visited the job centre. I felt quite let down about that because I put alot of time and effort into it to show that I have been looking, where and how the scenarios where turning out. And what did I get for my time and effort? A two second glance and a signature, WELL THANKS A BUNCH. I won't be putting in that effort again - not when they don't give me anything back. Screw that.
I was told I was attending an interview next time I was in. YOU WHAT WOMAN. I was never told this I told her but apparently the man downstairs got it wrong... Jesus, there is this thing called communication, USE IT. I was then told of the eight week placements that can be set up for me, there was nothing that I really really want to do but I saw something which I thought might be a valuable skill in the future.
So I am applying to somewhere which may require an interview, you what? You're just going to make me tea bitch (nice made in Chelsea reference for everyone there) for eight weeks, don't insult my intelligence. The volunteer guy seemed nice enough and seemed to realize that I wasn't just there to claim, I genuinely want a job but I didn't expect him to say that out loud. He said "look most people who come in here don't have any skills and we wouldn't refer them to a position like this because basically they're too stupid to do it" - I've paraphrased that, it's been 24 hours, I've been ill. I can't remember word for word! Oh dear - what a bitch eh?
"I'll come to you love" "I bet you say that to all the boys" were the next strange moments on my awkward visit, speaking on the phone to someone else in the centre, the 'volunteer guy' sat and flirted with her over the phone for a good five minutes. Sat there the entire time trying not to vomit all over him - not over the flirting, over not being well. Wouldn't that have been a good ending, "I am judging your flirting over the phone by vomming all over your desk... see ya next time!" AWKS.
So, I am applying to do some admin placement, we'll see if I get an interview to be tea bitch yeah? How is everyone else coping in this poor economy? How have you found getting a job? Can your experiences give mine a run for its money. Leave comments, or contact me on Twitter at; @DebStevo90 :) Always welcome comments of any kind - positive or negative.
Thanks guys.
Deborah :) x
Saturday, 4 August 2012
"This role requires at least two years experience"
Right now. I am feeling incredibly annoyed and irritated by job hunting. I have always been told from an early age that "education is the key" to securing a great job when I leave school. With this mantra, I went to university thinking a degree in English would not be a bad thing to have under my belt.
I feel, right now, I've just wasted £18,000. It would probably have been easier to leave school at 16 or 18 and try and find work then. At least I would have been in a position for 2 or 3 years where I would have experience similar to what I am applying for now. I assure you, education is not the key to life. There are so many people I know who have gone straight into employment or left university to go into employment and to be honest, they're doing pretty well to be honest.
Furthermore, having been focusing on graduate scheme positions, I've been further infuriated by the words, "MUST HAVE MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE" - I am an effing graduate, when have I had time to get management experience? I've been too busy getting a ruddy education! Graduate scheme positions sound great, however, they either want you to have a 2.1 or above, have management experience or it is commission based (OTE).
I feel like I am waging a war with graduate schemes. You read through them on the jobs websites, totaljobs, job site, thisishull and you see what they offer as a salary and you think it must be some sort of joke, then you see those three letters (OTE) and know you'll be earning pittance pounding the pavements attempting to get people to sign up to charities, when lets face it, people just can't and they don't want to!
So my question is graduates, do you feel like you've just wasted all this money, or are you feeling positive about the future and your plans?
I feel, right now, I've just wasted £18,000. It would probably have been easier to leave school at 16 or 18 and try and find work then. At least I would have been in a position for 2 or 3 years where I would have experience similar to what I am applying for now. I assure you, education is not the key to life. There are so many people I know who have gone straight into employment or left university to go into employment and to be honest, they're doing pretty well to be honest.
Furthermore, having been focusing on graduate scheme positions, I've been further infuriated by the words, "MUST HAVE MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE" - I am an effing graduate, when have I had time to get management experience? I've been too busy getting a ruddy education! Graduate scheme positions sound great, however, they either want you to have a 2.1 or above, have management experience or it is commission based (OTE).
I feel like I am waging a war with graduate schemes. You read through them on the jobs websites, totaljobs, job site, thisishull and you see what they offer as a salary and you think it must be some sort of joke, then you see those three letters (OTE) and know you'll be earning pittance pounding the pavements attempting to get people to sign up to charities, when lets face it, people just can't and they don't want to!
So my question is graduates, do you feel like you've just wasted all this money, or are you feeling positive about the future and your plans?
Thursday, 2 August 2012
Horrific Genuine First Interview.
Monday was looking a good day wasn't it, signing on at job seekers (yay!... not) and then I had my interview in Leeds. I decided to drive in the end, as my hire car still had 3/4 of a tank and it was going back the next morning, there was no point me paying £27.50 for the train. What an utter rip off!
Had Mum and Sebastian with me, so took them to Ikea to shop and off I popped to Leeds for my interview. Now, the only negative of driving was the parking situation. There just isn't a lot of it to be fair - I was lucky that I got parked on the next street to the building I needed to be in but, I didn't have any cash for the machine and then when I did get money, DUH, didn't take notes. It sounds silly but I was running late on my standards. My interview was at 2.30pm - I was running up and down the street at 2.20pm, and I like to be about 10minutes early - turns out, it wouldn't have mattered anyway in the end.
So, I got to the building, I was convinced that this was going to go great, the office was in a beautiful building with swanky doors and a swanky lift, what could go wrong? I arrived on the third floor - by lift, obviously. To be greeted by the same generic office like that of 'Tempest Elite Marketing', leather seats everywhere, a lonely fish tank trying to add 'texture' to the room and the girls working on laptops. OH GOD.
I was made to fill out an application form, asking me the same questions which were on my CV - am I the only person who is infuriated when you are made to do that? Finally at like 2.59pm I was called through, met a guy called Hugh - later found out he spells it HUW - you what? We went through to his office - he seemed like a nice chap at first. Oh how I was wrong. We're sat down and he looks through my CV and application, I am still a bit nervous.
Huw/Hugh then looks to me and asks "So, Deborah, tell me about your hobbies and interests...?" YOU WHAT, YOU WANT ME TO TELL YOU WHAT I LIKE TO DO. REALLY? LIKE REALLY?
Then the best bit of all happens, he asks me this question, and I start to tell him and the ignorant ba***rd gets his BLOODY PHONE OUT! And starts to use it! At this point, I've been told I should have walked out. However, I saved that anger till I got home. He asked me a few more questions about what attracted me to the job etc, I answered them as professionally as I could - he wasn't bothered though, so why should I. He had the attitude of, "I've got to conduct another 15 of these today, I just cannot be bothered".
I left, I got the bottom of the stairs and sighed VERY loudly, I was distraught. I had driven 60 miles to Leeds, spending money I don't really have for the most ridiculous interview of my entire life. People were texting to see how it went, saw my Sister and lied to her about it, spoke to my dad and again lied about it. I was mortified and embarrassed, I lied to my best friend - I don't lie to her, ever. I've since come clean about my horrific interview in Leeds and everyone has been supportive and told me that I shouldn't feel ashamed because at the end of the day I was lead there under false pretense thinking I was interviewing for a Graduate scheme when in fact I would be pounding the pavements.
Things took a turn for the interesting the next day. I wasn't satisfied being angry, I wanted him to know so I sent his assistant;
Dear Rebecca,
Had Mum and Sebastian with me, so took them to Ikea to shop and off I popped to Leeds for my interview. Now, the only negative of driving was the parking situation. There just isn't a lot of it to be fair - I was lucky that I got parked on the next street to the building I needed to be in but, I didn't have any cash for the machine and then when I did get money, DUH, didn't take notes. It sounds silly but I was running late on my standards. My interview was at 2.30pm - I was running up and down the street at 2.20pm, and I like to be about 10minutes early - turns out, it wouldn't have mattered anyway in the end.
So, I got to the building, I was convinced that this was going to go great, the office was in a beautiful building with swanky doors and a swanky lift, what could go wrong? I arrived on the third floor - by lift, obviously. To be greeted by the same generic office like that of 'Tempest Elite Marketing', leather seats everywhere, a lonely fish tank trying to add 'texture' to the room and the girls working on laptops. OH GOD.
I was made to fill out an application form, asking me the same questions which were on my CV - am I the only person who is infuriated when you are made to do that? Finally at like 2.59pm I was called through, met a guy called Hugh - later found out he spells it HUW - you what? We went through to his office - he seemed like a nice chap at first. Oh how I was wrong. We're sat down and he looks through my CV and application, I am still a bit nervous.
Huw/Hugh then looks to me and asks "So, Deborah, tell me about your hobbies and interests...?" YOU WHAT, YOU WANT ME TO TELL YOU WHAT I LIKE TO DO. REALLY? LIKE REALLY?
Then the best bit of all happens, he asks me this question, and I start to tell him and the ignorant ba***rd gets his BLOODY PHONE OUT! And starts to use it! At this point, I've been told I should have walked out. However, I saved that anger till I got home. He asked me a few more questions about what attracted me to the job etc, I answered them as professionally as I could - he wasn't bothered though, so why should I. He had the attitude of, "I've got to conduct another 15 of these today, I just cannot be bothered".
I left, I got the bottom of the stairs and sighed VERY loudly, I was distraught. I had driven 60 miles to Leeds, spending money I don't really have for the most ridiculous interview of my entire life. People were texting to see how it went, saw my Sister and lied to her about it, spoke to my dad and again lied about it. I was mortified and embarrassed, I lied to my best friend - I don't lie to her, ever. I've since come clean about my horrific interview in Leeds and everyone has been supportive and told me that I shouldn't feel ashamed because at the end of the day I was lead there under false pretense thinking I was interviewing for a Graduate scheme when in fact I would be pounding the pavements.
Things took a turn for the interesting the next day. I wasn't satisfied being angry, I wanted him to know so I sent his assistant;
Dear Rebecca,
Firstly, it was a pleasure to meet you yesterday, thank you for your warm welcome.
However, I wish to speak to someone higher than Hugh, the manager who interviewed me yesterday as I have some major concerns as to how he conducted himself yesterday when he interviewed me. Please send me some contact details so I can speak to someone sooner rather than later.
Many thanks again for your professional attitude yesterday,
Deborah Stevenson.
I received no reply, only a phone call from HUW. But the thing was, I didn't want to speak to him, I wanted to speak to someone above him so that pr*ck would be given a written warming or something similar. He said to me that Rebecca had forwarded him the email. I told him that he was disgusting and his attitude was deplorable and that if he had rang to invite me to second round interviews I would have told him to stuff his job. I said that I was distraught because of the money I'd spent getting there and back. I also reminded him that had I got my phone out during the interview when I was answering questions, it would have left a bad impression on him about me. And I felt that about him. The first impression I got of him was that he was an absolute prick more interested in his phone than finding a good candidate!
I spoke to my dad about my phone call with Huw who reminded me that I didn't ask to speak to him, I asked for the information of someone higher from his assistant who obviously forwarded him the email telling him to sort it before I did.
To which she received this second email from me;
Dear Miss Hammond,
I appreciate that you were yesterday in a difficult position regarding my email about my interview with Hugh. However, I never asked for him to phone me, in fact, he was the absolute last person I wanted to speak to. I asked you for the contact information of someone higher, and now I am even more driven to get this information.
If I receive another phone call, and don not get the information I want, I will include you in my letter of complaint.
I look forward to your reply.
Many thanks,
Deborah Stevenson.
I still don't have a reply.
Monday's interview was an eye opener and an absolute disaster. I've learnt from my mistakes in that respect, but it is hard to tell which companies are genuine when you look on websites such as total jobs and jobsite. Oh, and for anyone interested.... the company was called RH CLIENT SOLUTIONS - don't apply for a job with them because they're useless.
Thanks all!
Deborah :)
Wednesday, 1 August 2012
"Are you a graduate, fantastic oppourtunities, £300 - £600 a week (OTE)"
Yes, I am a graduate, and yes I would love a fantastic opportunity! HOWEVER, I assure you that the average earnings are nowhere near what they promise they will be. OTE is On Target Earnings - so basically, the wage package you take home is based on the targets you've met and how many people you've managed to sign up to a charity etc.
Unfortunately, I've had two of these incidents in recent weeks. Urgh. I am not afraid to use their names on here either, I will name and shame the companies using graduates to 'pound the pavement' for nothing.
The first in Hull, is a company which me and friends have unfortunately interviewed with, and been hounded to go back and interview again with. One friend was lead to believe she would be a manager in 7 months and be on "like £700,000 a year!" her words, not mine. To which she received some lolling from me.
The name? TEMPEST ELITE MARKETING. You know that this cannot be legitimate as the building you're going to interview in, is in a back street and the office is a desk with a laptop and a phone. The shame. I sat there, knowing that this place was ridiculous, however, I applied with the hope of some interview experience. The man was called Quj or something, silent J i believe. He went through how the company streamlined everything so I could be a manager in about 12 months time, the same generic questions over and over again.
I left knowing that I would receive a phone call between 6pm and 10pm - who phones after 7pm, REALLY? They did phone, saw the number and just didn't pick up, they've tried since but I still, do not answer that phone.
What can I say, don't be fooled into thinking this is a real company who want to train you so that you're earning a decent wage over the year and therefore putting your degree which you've just spent £18,000 gaining to use. You're not. What advice I can offer is this, don't be fooled by every graduate scheme advertisement, look carefully, research the company and if you can try and find schemes with bigger more well known companies who open up their graduate schemes to hundreds of us every year.
It's an horrific time for anyone looking for work right now, and I feel for every person who wants and needs a job to provide for their family. To those who think it is their god given right to benefits, what can I say, you're a disgrace.
Unfortunately, I've had two of these incidents in recent weeks. Urgh. I am not afraid to use their names on here either, I will name and shame the companies using graduates to 'pound the pavement' for nothing.
The first in Hull, is a company which me and friends have unfortunately interviewed with, and been hounded to go back and interview again with. One friend was lead to believe she would be a manager in 7 months and be on "like £700,000 a year!" her words, not mine. To which she received some lolling from me.
The name? TEMPEST ELITE MARKETING. You know that this cannot be legitimate as the building you're going to interview in, is in a back street and the office is a desk with a laptop and a phone. The shame. I sat there, knowing that this place was ridiculous, however, I applied with the hope of some interview experience. The man was called Quj or something, silent J i believe. He went through how the company streamlined everything so I could be a manager in about 12 months time, the same generic questions over and over again.
I left knowing that I would receive a phone call between 6pm and 10pm - who phones after 7pm, REALLY? They did phone, saw the number and just didn't pick up, they've tried since but I still, do not answer that phone.
What can I say, don't be fooled into thinking this is a real company who want to train you so that you're earning a decent wage over the year and therefore putting your degree which you've just spent £18,000 gaining to use. You're not. What advice I can offer is this, don't be fooled by every graduate scheme advertisement, look carefully, research the company and if you can try and find schemes with bigger more well known companies who open up their graduate schemes to hundreds of us every year.
It's an horrific time for anyone looking for work right now, and I feel for every person who wants and needs a job to provide for their family. To those who think it is their god given right to benefits, what can I say, you're a disgrace.
Tuesday, 31 July 2012
The Job Centre 30.07.2012
Yesterday was my first day at the job centre! I was already stressed when I got there as I had an interview in the afternoon (that's another blog post altogether) Finally reached Market Place to go in and it was raining quite heavily but did people go to move aside to let me through the door? Hmm, no. I find it hard to not judge people, and hate it when others judge me. However, these were people from my city - so I think I've got a right to say what I need to. There were children everywhere, people hanging out in their scruffy clothes, what was I to think? I had gone to the job centre for my interview wearing black trousers and a red smart top - I want to be taken seriously, I want to find a job, no I need to find a job.
I meet my first adviser, is it bad I can't remember his name? Anyways, he was asking me questions about my life and why I want to claim job seekers allowance - he can tell I am nervous, I really really do not want to be here. I am not a shy person, and I think I am pretty easy going, but for the first time in a long time, I am a tortoise, back in that shell, afraid. The guy interviewing me complements me on how detailed I've made my form and my personal bit (where you write about yourself). I am then told that claiming JSA is really easy. The way he said it, I couldn't help but think he's telling me I can sit on my arse and fill in a box and wham bam £56 a week is mine.
I saw Chris next, seemed a nice enough bloke, but he seemed frustrated that I couldn't quite explain what I wanted to do. The only reason he was frustrated was because his computer had all the different names for jobs on it. He couldn't actually think for himself, typical. He seemed like a nice guy but you telling me to be realistic is fine but isn't being Simon Cowell realistic.... apparently not? Hmmph! To be fair, I was being realistic, but like I said, I haven't just taken out an £18,000 student loan to pay for university to take any old shite that comes my way. (I know I sound a total snob, but there is nothing wrong in having standards!)
My first visit to the job centre was successful, I think. I've got to take paperwork in to prove that student finance are no longer paying me - surely it's obvious, they're useless, of course they are no longer paying me. Furthermore, I am being 'forced' to attend a workshop with other unemployed youths, I believe the term, 'my idea of hell' comes to mind.
Oh jesus christ - it could either go alright, or horrific, my guess is the latter. I don't like the idea of a forced workshop - fair enough I want to get a job, but surely it should be optional, that way it would be easy to separate the determined from the undetermined in finding work. Just to clarify - I would go, I just hate forced meetings like that.
Next visit is on the 08/08/2012.
Look forward to it!
I meet my first adviser, is it bad I can't remember his name? Anyways, he was asking me questions about my life and why I want to claim job seekers allowance - he can tell I am nervous, I really really do not want to be here. I am not a shy person, and I think I am pretty easy going, but for the first time in a long time, I am a tortoise, back in that shell, afraid. The guy interviewing me complements me on how detailed I've made my form and my personal bit (where you write about yourself). I am then told that claiming JSA is really easy. The way he said it, I couldn't help but think he's telling me I can sit on my arse and fill in a box and wham bam £56 a week is mine.
I saw Chris next, seemed a nice enough bloke, but he seemed frustrated that I couldn't quite explain what I wanted to do. The only reason he was frustrated was because his computer had all the different names for jobs on it. He couldn't actually think for himself, typical. He seemed like a nice guy but you telling me to be realistic is fine but isn't being Simon Cowell realistic.... apparently not? Hmmph! To be fair, I was being realistic, but like I said, I haven't just taken out an £18,000 student loan to pay for university to take any old shite that comes my way. (I know I sound a total snob, but there is nothing wrong in having standards!)
My first visit to the job centre was successful, I think. I've got to take paperwork in to prove that student finance are no longer paying me - surely it's obvious, they're useless, of course they are no longer paying me. Furthermore, I am being 'forced' to attend a workshop with other unemployed youths, I believe the term, 'my idea of hell' comes to mind.
Oh jesus christ - it could either go alright, or horrific, my guess is the latter. I don't like the idea of a forced workshop - fair enough I want to get a job, but surely it should be optional, that way it would be easy to separate the determined from the undetermined in finding work. Just to clarify - I would go, I just hate forced meetings like that.
Next visit is on the 08/08/2012.
Look forward to it!
Monday, 30 July 2012
One in a million.
Hi there,
I am one of many, many is a loose term, lets say, I am one in over a million young people (under 25) who is no longer in education and who is out of work. As a graduate, I've spent around £18,000 in student loans alone, a large debt which I cannot afford to start paying off without a job - quite an interesting point, I went to university to be able to get a better job when I graduated, and what do you know, I am queuing up with Tom, Dick and Harry at the dole office on a Wednesday afternoon.
Not quite the image I pictured when I applied to university. Weren't we always taught "education is the key to any opportunities you want..." ? I feel let down by the many people who told me this, I feel I've lived a lie in that respect and gained a large debt which may take 30 years to pay off. Let's not be forgetting the incredible interest which they place on top of your student loan, another Brucey bonus for Dave and pals - I can't call them 'our government' as they are yet to do something good for this country.
As the title suggests - I am one in a million. One in a million of under 25's unemployed. I shall be writing about my job finding journey, interview experience, job center aches too. After the day I've had, I have plenty of ammo ready to get writing. I've created this blog to post my work to, which will also be posted to a graduate blog.
You can follow my other blog; http://21yearsofmusingsandlife.blogspot.co.uk/ this is my informal blog full of reviews, poetry, anything.
or my Twitter; www.twitter.com/DebStevo90
So excited to get writing this.
:) Deborah.
I am one of many, many is a loose term, lets say, I am one in over a million young people (under 25) who is no longer in education and who is out of work. As a graduate, I've spent around £18,000 in student loans alone, a large debt which I cannot afford to start paying off without a job - quite an interesting point, I went to university to be able to get a better job when I graduated, and what do you know, I am queuing up with Tom, Dick and Harry at the dole office on a Wednesday afternoon.
Not quite the image I pictured when I applied to university. Weren't we always taught "education is the key to any opportunities you want..." ? I feel let down by the many people who told me this, I feel I've lived a lie in that respect and gained a large debt which may take 30 years to pay off. Let's not be forgetting the incredible interest which they place on top of your student loan, another Brucey bonus for Dave and pals - I can't call them 'our government' as they are yet to do something good for this country.
As the title suggests - I am one in a million. One in a million of under 25's unemployed. I shall be writing about my job finding journey, interview experience, job center aches too. After the day I've had, I have plenty of ammo ready to get writing. I've created this blog to post my work to, which will also be posted to a graduate blog.
You can follow my other blog; http://21yearsofmusingsandlife.blogspot.co.uk/ this is my informal blog full of reviews, poetry, anything.
or my Twitter; www.twitter.com/DebStevo90
So excited to get writing this.
:) Deborah.
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