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In our On The Hunt series, we interview potential job-seekers (whether out-of-work or transitioning) and talk to them about what the challenges have been, what their goals are, as well as any advice or tips they may have for other job seekers to stay motivated. This week, FreshGigs’ own Joanne M. Brathwaite talks to job hunter Jenesse James.
I was introduced to Jenesse earlier this year through a mutual friend who recommended that she try my resume-writing services to help her boost her job-hunting efforts. During our first conversation, I was immediately struck by her big voice – perfectly-suited for a career in radio, and was surprised when she said that she was actually an administrative professional. Jenesse told me she’s been putting out resumes and “getting close” to landing her ideal job. And while she admits that she can find similar attributes in her current line of work, her heart’s desire is a job in admin.
What did you go to school for?
I started my academic career at York, enrolling in their French Studies program but I soon found that I was looking for something else. Recently, I graduated from Seneca’s Executive Office Administration program. It is an accelerated program that teaches the management of today’s office environment, including business office procedures and high-level computer skills, specifically as it pertains to senior management.
Are you working right now? If so, what are you doing? (how) Does it align with your ultimate job-hunting goal (if at all)?
Right now, I am in a customer service position that has very little to do with my career goals. That being said, I always like to look at whatever situation I’m in as an opportunity for growth, for learning, and for networking. I have developed some finer edges to my soft skills, and that is something that I can always take with me when other opportunities come my way.
What kind of job are you hoping to find? what’s your title? what does it look like?
I’m hoping, hoping, HOPING to soon find a position as an administrative assistant or perhaps an office coordinator. It would be lovely to find something as an Exec assistant, but I realise that one must start at (or near!) the bottom and work up, all the while accumulating experience, ability and confidence. As to what it looks like, I envision my position as supporting a person, office or team so that s/he/they may achieve what s/he/they’ve set out to do, and not have to spend precious time worrying about the various supports that allow for their role to run smoothly.
But, hey. Right now, I just want to get my foot in the door! I want the chance to prove my ability, to show that I possess what any discerning employer is seeking, and to put myself out there as a qualified, engaging, passionate employee.
Anything promising? Have you had (m)any interviews? What have they been like?
I have had only a few truly promising interviews but in the end, none panned out. All have given some good feedback, usually starting out with the fact that they liked the way I come across in the interview, but the kicker is usually experience. How can I fight that? Yes, I have a good number of solid admin years, but the feedback I’m getting is that since it’s been a few years, those years are considered somewhat out of date, despite having been in school for the same in the interim.
On the upside, In one specific interview, the interviewer for a position that has yet to actually open said that she wished the position were already ready because she felt that I was exactly what they were looking for, that I have the personality, work ethic, and maturity they would be looking for in the person who fills the position. If only it were open…
What’s been the most difficult part about your hunt?
The worst? Seeing a job posting that I KNOW would be an awesome fit (like, goosebumps while reading the description/requirements as my mind says “aha! I’ve found you!”) and then receiving no response…or better yet, the “thank you for your interest, please try again” email. Staying positive and focused through constant rejection is tough. My way of coping is to basically keep my end-goal in my line of sight and not allow anything to dislodge it.
I want the chance to prove my ability, to show that I possess what any discerning employer is seeking, and to put myself out there as a qualified, engaging, passionate employee.
I will admit to recently letting up a little on my search, as the constant rebuffs can take their toll, but it’s like coming up for air before diving back into it; I’ve gotta do it to reorient and fortify myself.
What (if any) steps have you taken to ensure that you’re a contender for each job you apply to?
As much as possible, I try to align my talents to the description provided in the job posting and then market them descriptively in my resume and covering letter. Along the same line, I make sure that I mimic the tone of the posting (eg: adapt a more formal tone when the posting is written in such a manner) in my application.
I research the company and try to bring out a commonality to show where we mesh well. Wherever possible, I enlist the help of my network – sometimes to send a message internally, sometimes to acquire the name/contact info of the hiring managers so that I can specifically address my application, etc.
What’s been keeping you motivated as you search for your next gig?
My goals for personal fulfilment and growth. I’ve put all this effort into this avenue and I’m not about to stop now. Personal success to me means achieving certain goals within my life, and quite a few of them start with finding employment within my field.
For example, one day I would like to try my hand at virtual assistance. Before this can happen, I need to prove myself within the field and glean as much from it as it would take to start out in this endeavour. Future goals and possibilities are what keep me going.
Do you have any sage advice to pass on to other job seekers?
Keep going! In the words of Sir Winston Churchill, “Never give up on something that you can’t go a day without thinking about.” Do not let a few denials get in the way of what you want.
Push through, whether this is your passion, a means to an end, or just something you really want for this moment in your life. Again in the words of Sir Winnie, “Never, ever ever ever ever give up.” You got this!
How’s your job hunt going? What are some of the challenges you’ve faced? We’d like to hear from you! Leave a comment in the section below.