I failed a job interview for the 4th time this year. I am feeling very embarrassed to face my wife who is earning better than me. She has been single handedly taking care of the family and our kids for over a year now. I an MBA with 7 years of wok experience but I lost my job in COVID and have been struggling in my career doing odd freelancing and consulting jobs. I have no money to start a business. I am trying hard to get a job where I can showcase my skills and get a permanent source of income. What should I do to improve my chances of getting a job? Pls suggest something
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing in your job search. It's understandable to feel discouraged after multiple rejections, but it's important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of the job-seeking process, especially during difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of securing a job:
1. Reflect on past interviews: Take some time to reflect on your previous job interviews. Identify any patterns or recurring issues that might be contributing to your rejections. Are there specific skills or experiences employers are looking for that you might be lacking? Are there areas of your interview performance that you could improve upon?
2. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Make sure your resume and LinkedIn profile are up-to-date and tailored to the types of roles you're applying for. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that demonstrate your value to potential employers.
3. Expand your job search: Don't limit yourself to just one industry or type of role. Consider exploring opportunities in related fields or industries where your skills and experience could be transferable. Cast a wider net in your job search to increase your chances of finding suitable opportunities.
4. Networking: Reach out to your professional network for support and advice. Attend industry events, job fairs, and networking meetups to connect with professionals in your field. Networking can often lead to valuable job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.
5. Skill development: Consider investing time in developing new skills or upgrading existing ones that are in demand in your target industry. Online courses, certifications, or workshops can help you stay competitive in today's job market.
6. Practice interview skills: Practice interviewing with friends, family members, or a career coach to improve your interview skills and build confidence. Mock interviews can help you refine your responses to common interview questions and better articulate your qualifications and experiences.
7. Stay positive and resilient: Job searching can be challenging, especially during tough times. Stay positive and resilient in the face of rejection. Remember that each rejection brings you one step closer to finding the right opportunity. Stay focused on your goals and keep pushing forward.
8. Consider temporary or contract work: In the meantime, consider taking on temporary or contract work to generate income and gain valuable experience while continuing your job search. Temporary assignments can sometimes lead to permanent job opportunities and help you expand your professional network.
9. Seek support: Don't hesitate to seek support from your wife, family, or friends during this challenging time. Open up to them about your struggles and lean on them for emotional support and encouragement.
Remember that your worth is not defined by your job title or salary. Stay focused on your strengths, continue to persevere, and keep working towards your goals. With determination and effort, you'll eventually find the right opportunity that aligns with your skills and aspirations.