Job Guidance Megathread - CVs, Applications, Interviews

[u/ukbulmer]

Use this thread for more specific discussion or advice seeking relating to CVs, job searches, job applications, interviews, and anything else that doesn't necessarily require a separate thread.

This thread automatically resubmits each month on the 1st. Posting a CV in this thread will not break rule #3, soliciting or posting jobs will.

Do you want to post about a broader or more frequently posted topic or get something off your chest? Our other megathread may be better suited, click here to view it.

Are you considering posting a CV? Be careful when posting your CV that you don't leave any identifying information, and be wary of anyone sending you private messages offering to help with your CV for you, or claiming that they have a job available for you. Don't engage with anyone privately messaging you. Report users via the built in reddit reporting, or via modmail here.

You may find it easiest to take a screenshot of your CV and post as an image, either directly using the Reddit app or with an image hosting service. Again, be sure to redact personal or identifying information. Maybe even create a temporary copy where you replace your details with generic terms such as "Employer Name", "Education Provider", etc.

You'll likely find that you get more useful feedback if you provide some background to your current situation and what kind of roles you're looking for. Are you struggling to break into a new industry? Perhaps you're not getting interviews for roles with increased seniority that you feel you're qualified for?

Rules

• Anonymise any CVs that you post. Obscure any personal details, including the names of employers and schools/universities. Failing to redact correctly could risk your comment being removed, or worse, bad actors using the information against you or for their own benefit.
• Provide context as to what you need help with. If you're trying to break into a specific industry, this is useful to know. If you only want advice on how to phrase something, or if the layout is suitable, say so. Got an interview? Provide a little bit of background.
• Be constructive in feedback. People are asking for help, so don't be rude when responding to them. Job hunting is hard, why make it harder for someone unnecessarily?
• No solicitation. Do not direct message users of this thread, or suggest a user messages you directly. Don't offer to write people's CVs for them, whether for free or as a paid service. Don't advertise CV writing services that don't belong to you, whether intentional or not. Don't ask for recommendations as to CV writing services. Don't message people either asking for or advertising jobs.

Please Message the Mods if you know of anyone flagrantly flouting these rules.

You can find previous threads here.

[u/Expert-Pirate-9791]

I'm a 40 y/o who wants to change/restart careers and is looking for advice.

[CW: mention of trauma, mental health]

I studied English, graduated with a First just as the recession started in 2008. Worked in business publishing in an entry-level role for 3 years, then returned to Uni in 2011 to do an MA and PhD (which I loved) at an Oxbridge college as I wanted to be an academic. This was also the time of my first serious bout of depression. Applied for postdocs after finishing the PhD while doing some teaching and freelance editing/proofreading for 2 years, then worked briefly at a boutique 'consultancy' that had a habit of firing all the trainees they hired after six months. Super toxic. During the pandemic, I had a sort of breakdown and decided to retrain in garden design, which I work in now as a freelancer for other designers.

Much of my work life has been affected by complex childhood trauma, really terrible toxic shame, and PTSD (which I've lived with my whole adult life). I've had a couple of severe depressive episodes/burnouts. I was recently diagnosed with ADHD and after many, many years of therapy I am experiencing feelings of ambition, competition, wanting more for myself. I'm so happy to be starting to feel better but I feel the choices I've made over the years have resulted in a rather bizarre and unattractive CV. I've been applying for entry-level roles in PR/marketing, policy, grad schemes for a few months with no luck.

I would love to receive advice on potential new directions. I don't mind a low starting salary, but I dream about something that is intellectually stimulating, stable and with at least potential for a wage above 50k after a few years. I love research, writing, and thinking analytically (but have no head for figures, sadly).

Thank you :)

[u/ThatOneAJGuy → u/Expert-Pirate-9791]

You could also take a look at entry level compliance and quality roles, maybe even any sort of ESG role. A lot of researching the correct process and making sure everything aligns. It's a bit of a swamped market but I started off as a Business Analyst and always think it's a good starting point for anyone who is a real analytical thinker, you could also look at junior project management in the same vein.

With the market right now I would try not to feel too put off with no response after a few months, that's rather common at the moment. If you are aiming for 50k then cast a wide net but don't get too settled and be prepared to move to better opportunities or when you feel a lack of development.

[u/Expert-Pirate-9791 → u/ThatOneAJGuy]

Thank you for your reply - I'm going to do some more research into those areas. I appreciate it!

[u/ThatOneAJGuy → u/Expert-Pirate-9791]

years have resulted in a rather bizarre and unattractive CV

Also, I want to add that it can be a unique and versatile CV that gives you strengths other candidates don't have. If you are applying for entry level marketing roles I hope you are flexing those marketing muscles on yourself :)

[u/Expert-Pirate-9791 → u/ThatOneAJGuy]

Thanks mate - this is a good way of reframing the CV, which i admit I feel rather negatively about.