This is a copy of the post on: https://lemmy.ml/post/26469128.
I’m worried because I never really had a job, and because I need to pay for the bus to go to places (where I absolutely need to go), I fear that I may run out of money and I currently have a minuscule amount. Plus, I really wanted to move out of my parent’s house sometime.
So, starting in the beginning of January, I have actively been looking for part-time entry-level jobs (since I’m currently in university and just can’t have a full-time job) at places like Starbucks, McDonalds, TimHortons, grocery stores, and so on, but I never got any replies. I’ve been applying using Indeed, the company’s website, and even walking into the stores. I’ve lost count of how many resumes I’ve given out.
Since I’m also studying Computer Science, I figured that I might also apply for programming jobs (which I’m going to also do shortly). However, I figured that the chances of me getting a CS-related job are the same as me getting a minimum-wage job, and I just only want to have a job that pays at least something since it’s better than having no job at all (and plus, I think it will slightly increase my chances of getting a programming job later on).
Since I don’t really have a phone (or at least one that I carry around constantly), I’ve purchased a text-only VOIP number and put that on my resume along with my email (which I hope that doesn’t result in my never getting an interview).
It’s been like 2 months now and I haven’t heard back. When walking around I’ve also heard people saying that they’re having a similar experience. I am really stressed out because of this.
A friend of mine also said that the main reason why I’m not getting any replies back is because I have no previous job experience. I have also noticed that a lot of companies are simply not hiring right now.
Am I doing anything stupid?
If your college offers a work experience program, make sure to use it. Companies putting themselves on a list for hiring students will be more likely to actually hire students without prior work experience.
Don’t devalue yourself by working an unpaid internship for “experience” or shares, though. Experience is important, but saving money is far more important than 6 months of experience at a no-name startup looking to get itself acquired.
The job market is on a downward trend for programmers, but I’m sure you’ll find something. Keep applying, and good luck!
A couple questions.
Are you making direct contact with a manager of some kind when you go to hand off your resume? Handing off your resume to “just anyone” and it will likely end up somewhere it doesn’t belong, like the receptacle.
Second, do you know anyone, anyone at all, that works anywhere? If so, apply in that place.
It sounds like you are a university student. Universities have jobs in cafeterias and are often more accommodating. Also, they sometimes have departments to help place students in part time jobs.
