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Not a sex advice, Jobs anyone?
As many of you know, I'm looking for a job, and I found an ad for the following.
SALES REPS AND MANAGERS NEEDED EXPANDING TERRITORY Reps earn to $2200/ wk. Managers to $3400 /wk. Explosive growth. IPO this December. Any one else seen jobs advertised like this? Not that I'm being skeptical, but doesn't the old adage, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is? |
Eek - sounds horrible to me. I'm thinking pyramid selling, or else horrible telemarketing type role....
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If the job is really that great, pays well, & offers job security, without sending you off to Timbuktu, South Central, or some other godforsaken hellhole, don't you suppose they wouldn't need a lot of advertising to fill the availible postions...I see a lot of these kind of ads, & yet they never seem to fill their quota...not that I'm being skeptical either...or cynical ;)
Been in your sitution myself, nut, & I know how the desparation can make even the absurd offers look like manna from heaven...still, I guess a phone call to check it out would cost you nothing (unless it kept you from persuing a more realistic possibility) ...& time wasted on a offer you don't plan to take anyway differs from time wasted waiting for a job how? |
Unless you have a favorite plaid sport coat and 'enjoy' high volume/pressure sales work, I wouldn't waste the dime. :cool:
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There are certain ads that run in the paper continuously. The type (the lettering) used to "get your attention" is a big reveal. All caps sets off whistles for me. The wording is give-away. If you have to question who would pay this much for a "will train" or "no experience necessary" person...your answer is NO ONE. If the company name isn't represented, I hear bells going off. When it says "up to x amount of dollars" you can rest assured you won't start out at that and that only the CEO himself makes that kinda top dollar. The section that the ad is placed in tells a lot too. If it's not under "Sales" for a sales job, but just in the "General" or "Miscellaneous" section[s]...with no company name or direct phone # or contact name...and you've seen it before (maybe worded a bit different, but the same connotation none-the-less)...I'd assume it's a "too good to be true" ad and further investigation isn't warranted.
That's my take on it! Good luck no matter what you choose to do hun! |
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Thanks everyone. Luck is definatly needed, as I have now applied for 23 jobs in the past 7 days and gotten ZERO response. I'm trying my best to NOT throw a "pity party" for myself, but when even Temp agencies don't have work fitting my qualifications, I am beginning to wonder. I'm following up, making phone calls, when applicable, and even stopping by the places to attempt to speak with either the store/hiring/HR manger of the places. I get stone-walled at the door. Yet, in all cases, I am just responding to ad's that have been placed in either Monster, or the local help-wanted.com websites, or the local paper. Does anyone know if busineses get "breaks" for advertising jobs, even if there aren't jobs to be had? |
Sales jobs are apparently a quickly growing field. It might not hurt to check it out but I do agree, that one sounds almost too good to be true. Notice it does say you can make "up to" X amount. That's likely the top seller in his top week.
I don't think businesses get 'breaks' for advertising jobs since they do cost money to advertise & it does cost money to go through the hiring process, train people, etc. |
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I can see how you might think they're advertising jobs that aren't there, due to your underwhelming response rate :( Just remember that you're dealing with supply & demand here, & there's obviously a bigger supply of people needing work out there than the administration numbers would let on (esp. since this is an election year & they all paint the "blue sky" picture every chance they get). It's a sad commentary on our times that businesses no longer even show the courtesy of saying "no" to someone's face, but I have this picture in my mind of a typical HR person, already having to do more with less each day, posting a job or two & being deluged with apps from hopeful job-seekers like you, & he/she can respond to each one, or they can go home to their family sometime before midnight... I realize, not much of a "pep-talk" here, but hang in there bud... |
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yup. wish i had other advice. good luck! |
As far as that ad... I don't trust it.
As far as a job doing what you want to do... don't give up. I got hired on at the company I work for at a time when they hardly hire anyone. I just happened to apply at the right time. A closed door today may very well be wide open tomorrow. /fortune cookie |
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Just a footnote, I finally got to talk to a human being at a nationally recognized "specialty retailer of consumer electronics, personal computers, entertainment software and appliances", (who's initials are BB). Anyway, I turned in a copy of my resume and references, and filled out all appropriate paperwork, to schedule an interview. The interview now will not happen because there is either a computer program or spreadsheet that is telling them that my "personallity" is not compatable with their standards to work at this store. I did not "pass" the personality test that is required when filling out an application. So, despite 15+ years of retail experience, as well as retail managment experience, and personal recomendation from an employee of the store, I'm not Qualified to work there. So a computer program is what decides who is qualified or not these days??? Anyone know where R2D2 or C3PO are so maybe I can bribe them with a quart (or barrel maybe) of oil to get a job??? |
If I were you I would think back to the personality test and try to figure out what aspect of your personality may have been the reason for their decision. I would also look closely to what types of references you are using and what previous employers may or may not be saying about your performance.
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I agree completely with Lil. You have to know what type of answers they're looking for on the test, and give em what they want.
As for the person you spoke with....did you have enough of a connection with him/her that you could ask which areas were incompatable? Just explain that you want to understand better so that you can do better next time. Also...beware attitudinal effects....since you've been out of work, it's easy to get negative and think negative thoughts. Make sure no one detects these from you! (((((Nut))))) |
Given your experience, you probably know all of this, but I figure a reminder couldn't hurt :)
At the job interview, and throughout the whole application process, really, for my current job, I tried to convey an air of already being on the team, to a certain extent, of understanding what they do, what my role would be, who their competitors are (thought not applicable in my case), who they liase with, etc. and tried to smile a lot, which I think I did. I was ready with examples to give of what I had done in my previous job that was good. Basically I think the trick is to show them you're enthusiastic about working there and help them get enthusiastic about working with you. Not saying you're not doing this already, but as I said, I didn't think the reminder would hurt... |
Suggestion
I notice you posted you have stuck to the papers and monster. Does your state offer a Workforce Commission? Also Headhunters are not a bad idea, there are several that specialize in one or two fields, with reputable agencies there is no fee for the job seeker.
Robert :cboy: |
The interview now will not happen because there is either a computer program or spreadsheet that is telling them that my "personallity" is not compatable with their standards to work at this store. I did not "pass" the personality test that is required when filling out an application.
So, despite 15+ years of retail experience, as well as retail managment experience, and personal recomendation from an employee of the store, I'm not Qualified to work there.[/QUOTE] A couple of companys around here use that excuse a lot. Its NOT that you are not qualified for the job. Its that you are OVER qualified for what they want to pay!You probly have more experance than the current boss. |
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Thanks again for the advice and help everyone. This has been a totally frustrating experience. This is not the first time that I've gotten the "over qualified" bit played out Jay-T. While it's good to hear that I'm over qualified, for SOMETHING, it still doesn't help with the fact that in about 5 weeks, my bills will be due, and I won't have the means to pay them. Again, I'm not trying to throw a "woe is me" party, but its the reality that I am facing. If,indeed, the bottom line is that I DO have more experience than they are willing to pay for, wouldn't it just be easier for them to say: "yes you can have the job, if you want to take it, but A) we can only pay "x" ammount, and you will be maxed out, and B) you will have little or no opportunity for advancement, should you choose to accept the position" That way I am fully aware what I am getting myself into, and I can decide if I want to accept the position, knowing that I am as far as I can go? Another thought;if I am "over qualified", how is it necessarily a bad thing? If I am over qualified, won't I be able to perform my duties-whatever they may be, more efficiently, and be able to assist in other area's of the operation, not to mention giving managment one less position that they might need to "worry" about because it is capable hands? |
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My guess as to how being "over qualified" can be bad is that they figure you have a brain, & the postion they have could be filled by a trained chimp...and people smart enough to figure that out tend to become disgruntled over time...I know you feel like paying the bills is all the motivation you need right now, but they probably see that as a liability down the road somewhere...of course, we can't rule out the possiblity that they're just evil, or assholes, or both (can ya tell I have very little respect for corporate America?) ;) I can empathize with your desparation, having just come off nearly 3 years of unemployment...wish I had some more encouraging words to help, other than hang in there... |
Hey Nut......
I've been in your postition. When your over qualified the ones doing the hiring are scared you'll get their job if hired so you get passed on. I actually had a gal tell me she could'nt hire me cause I would have her job in a month. If I had'nt been young and dumb I could have turned her in for that comment. I would tone down your resume, only give them the amount they are looking for to fill the position being applied for. Don't let them know you can do more then the job requires. After your hired they can figure out that you can move up the ladder. I got lucky with my current job. My manager was'nt threatened because there are so many stores that I could move up if needed. I would'nt be taking her job. Course I don't want her job, I'm happy being her Asst. . I won't give up anymore of my life to do her job. If she gets any more stressed then she is and quits on me I'm gonna be pissed. The DM will try and talk me into taking the store and I won't do it. I think. Anyway.......I wish you luck cause I know it sucks!!!! (((((((((((((NUT))))))))))))))))) |
Thru my monster.com account I get e-mail updates about various job related things. Yesterday's was nice, apparently the job out-look for seasonal jobs is not looking very favorable. (Just what I needed to hear, since that was the next "target" for me)
This afternoon I went to an "open interview" session at a local video store. The young lady I "interviewed" with said they would be choosing candidates that they will be bringing back for Full interviews, by later on this evening. Somehow I'm not surprised that my phone hasn't rung tonight. B@#t B%y says that I can't pass the personality test, and video stores paying $7.50/hr won't even bring me in for a "full" interview. Anyone know how to get the state to pay me to clean I-75 with my toothbrush?? Speaking of which, I'm planning my upcoming move, A "duplex" at the intersection of I-475 and I-69, that way my son Ryan and I can each have our "own rooms", his under one underpass, and me under the other. :) Yes, that last part was a joke, but it's getting REALLY difficult to find a sense of optimism. |
seems like you're sticking to retail/cutomenr service jobs. try something different maybe.
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I am because I have 15+ years experience in retail or customer service. I'm not a tradesman, so I don't have that "skill set". If I can't get a job in an area that I have experience in, how am I supposed to get a job, as an un-experienced employee, in this job market? wyndhy, I do understand what you're saying, but as an employer would YOU hire someone with experience, or without? |
I understand the thinking of staying with what you know, I went with the same idea after 25 years in the printing biz...but seeing as how you're at zero employment now, & prob willing to take even a low-paying gig, you may as well try a fresh start, esp. if it could lead to something you might like better anyway...
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it depends on the type of job but if a person's resume and references checked out, and i felt they were reliable and willing, i'd hire them. not all jobs need years of training but most need a good work ethic. but as the job seeker - especially one needing a job PDQ - i'd try anything. retail may not be hiring permanent positions right now, but landscapers might be, or waiting tables. whatever - even if it's just somehting to bring in a pittance while i keep applying for the job i really want. or if you want to stick with it, then take one of the seasonal jobs out there, even if it's just front counter. i worked in retail long enough to know that not all the seasonal employees have to leave after the season's over. i saw it as floor help and as a manager when i kept a few particularly good people on. |
Thanks again everyone.
You've given me many good idea's, and I am certainly open to exploring other options. Maybe I've been a bit closed minded about this. Wyndhy, thanks for the idea of searching out a "service" type job in other industries. I guess I'd not really considered that possibilty. Not to mention the idea of hitting up the places for season jobs. We shall see! |
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You are correct in the "zero employment" and willing to take a low-paying gig!! I am. The problem there is, I think when people see my resume' the assumption is that I won't TAKE, the low paying gig, because it's not what I had recently. I've started to actually AVOID giving out my resume, on that basis alone. The pre-concieved notion that as a MANAGER, I was making "X" in salary, and therefore I won't work for "X/2" salary. Let alone working in a non-managment position. TRY ME, I Might!!! The next problem arises, when I don't turn in a resume', with my applications, I have huge TIME gaps in my work history, and that brings forth other ideas that "disqualify" me from employment. Out of the frying pan, into the fire. |
Two thoughts:
One - you could selectively take your title off of your resume, for jobs where you think you might "overqualified" Two - isn't it Christmas season? Is there anywhere you can find that needs seasonal help? That would get your foot in the door. |
It does seem a catch-22 situation...but I like osuche's idea of "de-padding" your resume for certain gigs...
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FINALLY!
I got a bit of good news today! Family Video called and I have an appointment with them on Monday @ 2pm. The foot in the door, finally worked. NOW all I have to do is kick it in! Thanks for all your support, and I will keep you posted! |
1nutworld not sure if this has been asked yet but are you calling back to check on your apps.?
Just call back to ask if your app. is still be considerer. This not only lets them know you are still looking. It also most times will put you app. back on top of the pile. When they dig it out from the middle of the pile most likely they just will put it back on top of the pile. Most place will only call 5 to 10 people in for an interveiw so they look threw and find the first 5 or 10 apps that look good. It dosen't matter how god your app. is if it to far down they may stillnever see it. P.S. Don't call more then a couple times and not daily you want to show you are intersted but not become a pain. P.S.S. If you can when you hand in an app. find out if there is a day they do interviews and call about 3 days before that. |
Hey Boog,
nice to see ya! Yes I am doing weekly follow up with the places I have applied. |
You may want to consider carrying a set of "A", "B" and "C" level resumes.
As for follow-ups, a face beats a voice every time. Maybe when you are in the area, or if it's something you especially would like, stop in and let them know you hope the position is still open. It may tell you more about how much more attention you need or should give to a specific hope. Letting them see you are still interested and connecting YOU to the ton of applications is not bad. Leave them with casual comment about why their place is 'special' to you. just a thought :shrug: |
I have an interview tomorrow at noon, with the District Manager, to be followed by a job offer, I presume.
(making an attempt at the power of positive thinking, here) |
*Adds my positive vibes* Go get 'em, nut!!!
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Just in case you're all quite sick of this thread.
I'm back. :) I had the interview today, and it went very well, however once I indicated that relocation wasn't an option for me, I basically went into the "over qualified" pile again. They decided to fill the position with another applicant. Back to the drawing board. |
Sorry to hear that.
They did'nt let on that the position wasn't local? |
RELOCATION??????!! :banghead:
I am so sorry! |
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I was never told what position it was I was being considered for, nor at this point did I really care. I just need a F#@%ing job!! Apparently, qualification for any managment position with this company is that you are re-locatable. With my previous experience, ideally I would fill a managment role, which I was most suited for. Once I divulged that relocation wasn't an option for me, basically I was done. |
Wow, I guess it says things that I've not posted in this thread in 3 weeks.
I have an appointment with a company next Wed. They found my resume interesting and are bringing me in to meet. I'm not sure of the exact job details, but it is a sales position. IF, it there is a salary involved and not 100% comission, I will probably take it, even though I failed miserably as a real estate agent before. I can always keep looking, but I've GOT to put $ in the bills somehow, right?? |
I wish you all the best. Kick butt!
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