I’ve been on the job hunt for awhile now and some situations are just astounding. Most jobs come along easily for me, but the past few months things have changed. I’ve really had to step up my game to compete with designers that hold many years under their belts. This is not really a problem because I like a challenge and I am pushing my skills further. The problem, I believe, stems from the amount of applicants and companies unable to meet each one. The standards have changed from apply in person, to pray the internet gods will land you at the top of the inbox. I’ve only recently found this out, which is a rude awakening. It always made sense to me to walk-in somewhere, talk to who hires or the boss, and get to know them in person. How can they truly judge my character from an email? How could I see if this job is the one? Besides hoping the email makes it, it can take days to get a response. What if they need some other reference or attachment? More time. I can talk about and show my work, along with getting a feel for the company atmosphere, in 15 minutes max. I even ask or answer questions that could be three emails away. I’ve researched various blogs and applicant hunting companies and have been told not to come in person. Some don’t even want you to call them, just plain old email. I believe these are the main reasons some companies cannot find good employees, and it is more difficult for me personally to find a job. I thought companies were built from people not emails. I am very interested in feedback, employers and applicants alike. Do you think it not right to show up at a place to ask for work? I do mean within reason, employers are people too, they get busy and have lives outside of work. Comment here or send me a tweet with your thoughts.
I couldn’t have said it better than Tyson — well said. (I’m going on nine months and I am very frustrated on not being able to get a foot in the door to even be interviewed, let along get a job offer.) Best to you!
HR has destroyed any hope of being human (while searching for a job). It is sad. They test and screen and rely on generalizations about your personality all before they will even meet you. Has this really changed the landscape of employment? Are employees more retainable more productive or even more that zombies at this point? IDK. I doubt it. I know what you’re going through right now, it sucks. I spent 7 months looking for a job here in the valley before starting my own business. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy… (well maybe one). But you’re a good guy and a good designer, you’re a little green but you’re applying for the right level position, you’re smart and willing to learn so it should be easy. Unfortunately finding a job is all about who you know and almost nothing about what you are. And even more difficult in Phoenix is that it is still a small town and for the moment you’re the outsider. I hope it works out for you and I’ll keep my ears open because I think you’re a great addition to the mix here in this small town.
Sorry for the run on paragraph.