I Feel Like Such A Failure...

[momof1princess]

i just received a "thanks, but no thanks" letter from yet another job application. i feel like a total loser. i've been looking for a job for over 6 months, and honestly, i'm ready to give up. yes, i have been a SAHM for 11 years, but that doesn't mean i'm an idiot-i am more than qualified for the jobs i apply for. i smile, shake hands, am friendly, and i'm told i come across very well in interviews. i just don't get it. i feel like i've completely failed myself and my family.
i'm sorry, i know there are much bigger issues going on in the world, but this latest rejection letter has just reduced me to tears. DH is at work and DD isn't home (i wouldn't mention it to her anyway), so i'm sitting here all alone, feeling like the world's biggest loser.

 

[AKL_Megs]

You ARE NOT a failure.

I am so very sorry.

 

[littleteapot]

 

[Mermaid02]

It's a really tough time to be looking for a job! Believe me, it has nothing to do with you!

 

[The Mystery Machine]

I will be going back to work soon as well. What are applying for?

I am going to be looking at total entry level stuff.

It just takes time and maybe you need some classes to update yourself? I am looking at taking Microsoft classes myself.

 

[themilesfamily]

You are so not a failure!!!! This is an ugly, dog-eat-dog, cruel job market.

Could you go out and start doing some volunteer work instead of job hunting? Perhaps you'll meet some good contacts in the process and that will turn into something.

A lot of organizations take volunteers and it's a good way to get to know the movers and shakers.

Regardless, don't give up!

 

[momof1princess]

thanks guys i know lots of people are in the same boat, and i hate that it's so difficult for all of us. even with a degree, i can't get hired. i didn't even get a call back for a cashier job at k-mart, lol.

 

[Reddy]

what jobs are you appling too???
I'm wondering if you are asking for alot of money or hours that everyone else wants too
I know my Wal-mart here won't hire unless you are willing to work week-ends
The ecomony is bad so good luck on finding something for more than min.
hate to say that but unless you have a dergree & worked the area before staying home & they have to have someone with the degree (& no one else is applying) then it ain't happening

are they giving you a reason??

 

[AKL_Megs]

Just a thought... Have you thought of applying for (or are you) part-time work? Usually, it seems, it's better to get your foot in the door and work your way up.

 

[Reddy]

thanks guys i know lots of people are in the same boat, and i hate that it's so difficult for all of us. even with a degree, i can't get hired. i didn't even get a call back for a cashier job at k-mart, lol.

K-mart, Wal-mart Target - are all usually trying to get rid of people now - it is after the Christmas rush

fast food (or food) daycares - school aids - grocery would be a better shot

 

[momof1princess]

thanks for the ideas guys i live in a very small city, and there just isn't very much available. the wal-mart supercenter ran off all of our grocery stores but one, and the k-mart is always deserted, so i'm not sure how it even stays open. i apply for any hours and any days of the week. part-time, full-time, i'm not picky. jobs are just so scarce around here.
i've started applying to jobs in nearby towns, maybe i'll have better luck.

 

[Wall-E1]

I think part of the problem may be the number of people applying for any one position. I have friends who have gone out to job fairs and answered ads. Sometimes there are literally over a hundred people applying for 2 or 3 positions. So, I wouldn't take it personally. It's just the economy.

 

[Imzadi]

DO NOT TAKE IT PERSONALLY!!!

You do know that in the end, they were forced to hire the boss' wife's moron of a brother instead of all you qualified candidates.

You really do not know why they didn't hire you. Please don't give it more power than necessary.

 

[Art 1]

Keep your chin up, keep moving ahead. Remember, you have been doing the best thing the last 11 years, raising your children.

 

[Pakey]

Do not take it personally. I was interviewing candidates for a clerical position this week and every candidate had at least a bachelors degree and several years of experience. I've never seen anything like it. While I should be excited to have such a great choice, it was depressing to see so many qualified but unemployed individuals who are willing to work way below their skill level and prior pay scale.

 

[2Kds2K9]

You are not alone! I've been looking since July and have had a total of 2 interviews. One with a company where a family friend works and he hand carried my resume through the process. The second was with a national womans dress shop, won't mention name. With that one I had a two hour interview for a job that was going to pay $9.00 per hour. On either position I never got a call back regarding the interview. I found out through the grapevine that I did not get the job.

I even applied at a home store that was just opening it's doors and looking for help.

I have applied to over 30 companies and the most I've gotten is an acknowlegement of my application/resume. I've been a SAHM for 17 years now and am looking at entry level positions.

DH has been out of work for 18 months now and is having the same problem.

Good luck to you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers!

 

[momof1princess]

thanks guys. i'm sorry there are so many of us out there (unemployed folks). i wish the situation were better. thank you 2Kds2K9, prayers for you and your DH as well.

 

[LuvOrlando]

Aww don't feel that way. It's not you, too many people are out of work to feel it's about you. Hang in there

 

[momof1princess]

thank you

 

[zalansky]

So sorry OP! Are there any temps agencies nearby that maybe you could get on with? I know a few people who went that route and then got permanent jobs through one of their temp jobs. I know you said you are in a small city. I too, am a SAHM for 5 years now and both my kids will be in school FT this Fall and I plan on looking then. I am scared to death the 5 years at home is going to kill me. Like you, I am willing to start back at entry level but I cannot work nights and weekends. So it may be a struggle.

Good luck to you, try not to take it too personal, and keep us posted.