Day 655! Wishing, waiting, anticipating

I remember when I wrote my blog on day 600. I was thinking surely I would not have to be sounding like a broken record by day 650.

But here it is, day 655, and still waiting! Oh, not just waiting. I don't just sit around and hope a job comes to me because of this blog. This blog is to just highlight the problems job seekers face. And although I am waiting to hear back from a couple positions I am really keen on, I am not depending on them (obviously history has showed me not to), and I am still job searching and applying left, right and centre.

I have finished my editing job though that I have mentioned before. I enjoyed it! Sadly, it was a one-off, but it is something I would be happy to do again. I cannot depend on something like that to be the steady income I need right now, but it is certainly something to consider in the future! It was something that took a lot of self-discipline and personal deadlines (because the author was in no rush to get it done but I wanted to complete it in a timely manner), but I am very proud of the work I undertook.

Sadly now that means I am without anything to do again! This week I will attend a meeting about a volunteering role and hope that something comes form that to keep me busy and out and about in the community, as well as a potential to continue to develop skills. It's an exciting project, one that I have had experience in before, but I will talk more about it when it is up and running.

I mentioned before that I had applied for a couple positions that I am anxious to hear back on. One I know for sure I would absolutely excel in: working on creating content for the website, assisting in marketing and working with the public. That deadline closed Friday, so I hope right now HR is looking at my CV saying, "She's perfect! Let's get her in for an interview now!" Haha, if only! Perhaps I should send them the Ten Reasons Why I Should Be Hired post, just in case!

In addition to that, I have made my CV available for "temporary" work on some of the recruitment sites. I am happy to undertake temp work as long as it adds to my experience!

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Before I sign off before going back to job searching, I want to say a big THANK YOU to those who have "liked", "shared", or "retweeted" my blog on social media. others have sent me links to potential jobs, and I really am thankful for it. I may not have found that job yet, but it has helped spread my message and exposed the blog to potential employers. I appreciate all of it! You never know...it might actually lead to that elusive job one day!

Don't forget: e-mail me, follow me on Twitter or connect with me on LinkedIn!

Day 644: A stressful two weeks!

Here I am on Day 644 without so much another job interview or news to report on! But it has been two weeks since my last post (oops!), because I have been staying as busy as possible and not because I have a job yet. So here's a little update...

Last week, I was so frustrated and feeling down and out that I actually went to the job centre for some advice! I didn't want to have to go there, but I am glad I did. They were not able to help me there, as it is only for people receiving benefits and whatnot, but they gave me information on Universal Job Search. It seems to be a very comprehensive list of local jobs of all sorts! I have found a position I am very interested in from that search. The cutoff is next week so I a keeping my fingers crossed that I get an interview (wish me luck, please)!

I have also been doing the one-off editing work. It is the first time I have done something like this, apart from editing my own thesis, so I am taking my time. I also wanted to do some reading first so I knew what I was working with first and talk about what the author is looking for in terms of direction. I will probably finish it this weekend, so that's good although I will be bored again.

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I've been looking into local volunteering roles as well. There are some exciting projects coming soon to the area which I would love to help out on. I am so anxious to get a job though that I can't commit myself to a long term role, so I am looking ore for support roles here and there, and possibly something I can continue even after I get a job (if that day ever comes...sigh). I do love volunteering and giving back. If everyone could do a little bit, even a one-off one weekend, it could make a huge difference to your community or even in someone's life, so I very much advocate getting involved when possible!

Something I have noticed this past week as well I just want to mention: my spam inbox has exploded. I don't understand where all this spam is suddenly coming from! But I have also noticed that I get A LOT of "Job Alerts" from companies I have never signed up with. Because it's from companies I have never even heard of, it makes me apprehensive about having a look or signing up. Should I be?

Job searching is stressful. It really is. Sending in countless amounts of CV's and application forms is very daunting and can make someone feel really down. I want to work! And I want to give all my energy into my career and using all these skills I have learned in all the education I went onto do. I know I would be a great employee for the right company. If that company can be yours, send me an e-mail, and we can chat! I am friendly, really! So please do get in touch.



Anyways...there's the "excitement" of the last two weeks. I'm off to do another job search!

Day 630: Where is my Fairy Jobmother?

Well today I am feeling a little bit defeated over it all. I've just got back from a casual interview, and I am starting to wonder if I am a bit too hopeful in getting the job that I really enjoy.

I went into this interview without knowing too much about what was wanted. Don't get me wrong, I am very, very grateful. It was my first interview in about a year! I was there to discuss some one-off work to be done, but knew there could be more opportunities ahead. There are...BUT it is project work that I may or may not get paid for, depending on the project and revenue it generates. As exciting as the projects are, unfortunately I am not in a position where I can do that.

So for that, I am feeling a bit defeated, wondering where I will fit in in the work force! Am I aiming too high? What sort of places should I be applying for? Should I be looking outside the media/marketing sector and go for something else, anything really, to get me into the work force again? My head's spinning!

I know I would be an awesome addition to a team! I love working with the public and being able to give something back into the community as well. I'm highly organised and have managed long-term projects and events in the community. In addition to work experiences, my studies have included intense research into digital media and how it is being used today by football clubs to connect with their fans and partners (although the theories could be applied to companies and their customers/target audiences). I am very proud of my studies and the thesis I produced as part of my M.Phil degree, and if you would like to read more about it, you can do so here.

I'd love a position working with people again, either digitally through social media and creating awesome content that engages the target audience, fan engagement or in project delivery and event management.

Have I mentioned that I love to bake, and I have been known to bring in cupcakes into the workplace often? Bonus! And if you're still not convinced, here are ten reasons why you should hire me!

Even though I feel a bit beaten over 630 days of full time job searching, I still managed to muster up the confidence to turn on the good ol' laptop and do some more job searching (and applied for three more jobs).

But where is that Fairy Jobmother?! 

If you would like to discuss further about what I can bring to your company, or would like copy of my CV, please do e-mail me!

Don't forget you can also connect with me on LinkedIn or follow me on Twitter.

Day 627: Training, editing and possible ugly Christmas socks!

So we're on day 627 now. I wish I could say during this time I have been busy! I have tried to be but the biggest reason for my absence has been coming down with sinusitis and labryinthitis (a lovely condition of the inner ear that leaves one feeling dizzy for days on end)! I couldn't even read e-mails or anything, let alone job search. The condition leaves you almost feeling hungover, and it would not have been a great impression at any interview I may have been lucky to land! I'm definitely on the mend now though so it's back to the traditional job search, but here is what I have been up to in the meantime:

Last week I attended a training session with Sporting Memories Network at Lancashire County Cricket Ground. This included how to start and successfully deliver reminiscence groups using sport as the driving force for the older community. This is essentially what I have done during my time at Everton, which you can read more about the programme and my role here! While this is just for a possible volunteering opportunity, it was great to network with people from different backgrounds all together for the purpose of bringing joy to the elderly community.

I have also reached the halfway point in the last course of the Social Media Marketing specialization course by Northwestern University I have been taken via Coursera. This course so far, The Business of Social, has been about data and analytics, and how to understand your campaign's strengths and weaknesses. This specialization has consisted of five courses (and an optional Capstone Project which I will undertake), and I have obtained four certificates so far from it. It's been really insightful, and I recommend Coursera to anyone who wants to learn a new skill, ether related to your field or just for fun (because classes can be taken for free, or if paid for if you want the official certification).

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I also have been asked to do a bit of side work editing a play! I have a meeting about it this week and to be fair, I am really excited! It is not related to digital media, but it's about effective content, and I still enjoy that whether digital or print. I will keep you all updated how that goes. It just may open the door to more opportunities...

And as a side note, I have also been learning new knitting techniques and have been knitting away on an awesome scarf. Yes, it is just about summer, but it has been an enjoyable and even stress-relieving pastime.

However, if I don't get a job, then it will be knitted scarves and socks for everyone this Christmas! Haha! I'm sure the family would much prefer it if someone would Hire Me instead!

Day 599 - A MAJOR update!

It's been quite a few months since my last post! Is it because I found a job? I do wish! But something better has happened!

To make a long story as short as possible, my boyfriend proposed at Christmas (yay!) and I had to travel back to America for a short while before coming back to the UK. After a lovely wedding day and time off for the honeymoon, I am ready to start looking for work again, and I have no restrictions as to who I can work for. No sponsorships needed! I have updated my FAQ's to reflect that here!

Since I was only able to start looking for work again as of Saturday, I am starting again from scratch. I have updated my CV, and I will be back on Indeed, LinkedIn, Reed, and anything and everything I can find. I will also soon be in contact with recruiters again to update them as to where I am at on the job hunt.

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Just a reminder you can find our more about me and my skills here, as well as my education and my experiences.

If you are on the hunt for a highly organised and extremely motivated person to bringing something new to your company in terms of digital media or want to find better ways to connect with your customers, send me an e-mail, or find me on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Don't forget you can also share this blog within your network!

Day 475 - A Pre-Holiday Update

Day: 475
Jobs applied for today: 0
Jobs heard back from: 0
Jobs applied for since starting this blog: 8

Source: baxterpersonnel.co.uk

Well, here we are. Two days before Christmas, and I have not heard back from any of the job applications I have put in. However, I just wanted to give a quick update because in the last week, although quiet on here (busy with preparing for Christmas!), I have been searching still. I have looked on job listing sites, a Twitter feed and checking my e-mails.

I also got a generic e-mail from recruiters saying to send in an updated CV for the new year. I did this, but no acknowledgement was given of receiving this.

That brings me to something that really bugs me. Out of all the jobs I apply for and CV's I send to recruiters, I only hear back from a small percentage (as you can see since I started this blog I have heard from nobody actually).

While some positions may have a hefty amount of people applying for it, I think an e-mail back saying you have been unsuccessful would be better than no e-mail at all. I have even rang a company once to follow up with an application, to which they told me it would be best sending them an e-mail. I did and received no response still. 

Some job descriptions will, ahead of time, post "Due to the expected number of applications received, assume you have not been successful if you have not heard from us in [any amount of time here]." That's fair enough, but some others I think would be nice to hear from.

Am I wrong in thinking this? Should I be doing more to hear back from companies/recruiters? Or is a response, even a generic one, just polite? Please send me your thoughts on this! You can contact me through e-mail, Twitter, or LinkedIn. You can also comment below.

While it definitely looks like I will not be getting my job for Christmas, I still hope to be relaxing a little bit, and hope you get to as well! All the best!

Day 469 - Perseverance will pay off

Day: 469
Jobs applied for today: 1
Jobs heard back from:  0
Jobs applied for since starting this blog: 7

Source: keepcalm -o-matic.co.uk

So today I had a pretty decent job e-mailed through today by UKStaffSearch so I was pleased I had found something new and so fitting to apply for today! Not that I am hoping that I don't hear back from others (as you can see, hardly anybody gets back to me even with a "no"), but this job seems so good for me so fingers crossed!

If all else fails, I heard there is a new job opening at Chelsea!

Joking aside, I want to share this story about a young man named Tom who applied for 950 jobs before securing a permanent role with Asda. That's right...950 and over the course of 60 months! This is why I wanted to bring up perseverance. Tom said in the article: "I never gave up, but all those rejections really knocked my confidence." I know how you feel Tom and many others too judging by the comments left, but good on you for not giving up! This is exactly what I intend to do. Some days look really bad but there is a job out there that has my name all over it (as always, if you think that is with your company, let's have a chat about it!).

I know I have not applied for 950 positions yet although I am sure I am well on my way. I have started counting how many applications I have sent since starting this blog. Let's hope the number stops growing soon!

Day 468 - Hello...is it Bri you're looking for?

Day: 468
Jobs applied for today: 0
Jobs heard back from today: 0


It's been a rough one the last couple of days! I've not found anything suitable to apply for, even after going on actual company sites to see their own listings rather than just relying on job listing sites - is this the beginning of the end for 2015? Oh don't get me wrong, there are a few digital marketing jobs out there, but I found that many of them are for applicants with an abundance of experience!

Which brings me to a point: I read a tweet from a sport recruitment page that read: "What's the most important feature when looking to start a sports career? Ambition? Qualifications? Experience? All of the above?"

I thought about it and realised if you are starting out your sports career, shouldn't the most important factor be ambition? I find that experience is hard to come by if all jobs want someone with experience. May be this is why I am still waiting for my big break. I can proudly say I have ambition though, as well as educational qualifications. If you missed them, you can have a look at my educational background here. And if you think I might be what your company is looking for, contact me!

Of course, feel free to disagree with me! What do you think is the most important feature when looking to start a career?

Source: GlassDoor.com

Day 466 - #HireBri

Day: 466
Jobs applied for today: 2
Jobs heard back from today: 0

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! the weather here wasn't so nice but I was able to enjoy a bit of time away from job hunting to spend time with friends. It was a nice change!

Seeing as it is Monday, I have not had much luck finding any new jobs listed, but managed to find two that I seemed suitable for. As we are in the last week before Christmas week, I fear I may not be hearing much back at all, which is worrying as I was hoping for a little bit of hope heading into the holiday!

Today I started the fourth course out of my five course Social Media Marketing specialization! It covers content, advertising and social IMC. I might have this finished before Christmas, which will give me a nice break before the next and final course begins in January. I hope this improves my employability, because I will be scratching my head as to what to do next if not!

A couple months ago, I attended a seminar put on my recruiters about what marketing skills are currently most desired. I felt I strongly had the skill sets presented and talked about, which was great! I left their feeling confident I could bring something fresh to the right company, however, two months later, ,I am still searching. As always, drop me an e-mail if you wish to discuss how I can utilise these desired skills in your business!

All I want for Christmas is...a jumpstart into my career!

Image source: http://www.keepcalmstudio.com/

Day: 463

Jobs applied for today: 4

Jobs heard back from today: 0

Today I actually found four jobs to apply for, which is unusual for me (I normally find 1-2/day). Makes a nice change going into the weekend. I don't normally apply for jobs on the weekend because nothing new is posted, but if I get an email alert to something right for me, I will go ahead and send through my CV!

Today I got an e-mail from a recruitment office wishing me a Merry Christmas and best of luck in my job search in the new year. Really?! It is December 11th! I know things get quiet over the holidays but I am trying to hold on hope that I hear something before Christmas because let's face it, I would feel much better going into the holidays with job prospects lined up! Despite it all, I will keep trying. I notice many closing dates are not til after the new year now, which is fine...but I will keep going because you never know! There's a job involving digital media/marketing and social media out there that is perfect for me. If you think it might be with your company, let's have a chat! 

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend ahead.

10 reasons why your company should hire me!

Still not convinced I am the right person for your company? Here are 10 reasons why I would be a great fit working as part of a digital media/marketing team!

1. I'm a team player - I am happy working with great people in a team. I feel everyone has their own strengths they can bring to the table to get quality work done.

2. ...but I can also be independent - In addition to working with a team, I am just as content working alone. I am very self-disciplined, can set myself deadlines, and I always find something to work on.

3. Deadlines - Media and marketing are always about deadlines. Timing needs to be spot on to produce effective work. This is something I understand completely and have no problem working to a specific deadline.

4. Continuing professional development - The only thing constant in digital marketing is change. New media platforms change all the time and it is a marketer's responsibility to stay on top of it in effort of continuing to produce effective work. I aim to do just that! This may include attending classes, conferences and seminars, networking with others in the field and reading up on the latest developments. Never stop learning!

Image Source: http://bit.ly/1Nedssl

5. Organised - One of my greatest attributes is how organised I can be. I have folders and USBs for everything! I believe being organised makes work less stressful for you and your colleagues and obviously looks good to your target audience.

6. Research skills - My Master of Philosophy degree required strict research. I was able to develop crucial research skills that can be applied in a business setting. this includes using analytics to learn more about target markets and then relaying findings to colleagues and partners.

7. I work well under pressure - Media/Marketing can be a very demanding position, whether you are developing new content with strict deadlines or working with active consumers as the link between them and the company, I am confident I can continue produce quality work under the many demands that come with digital marketing!

8. Confident - I am confident in giving talks and presentations to colleagues and partners, since it is important to keep everyone updated on the company's progress.

9. Ambitious - Not only do I want to succeed in what I do and go far in the marketing industry, I want the company I work for to do the same! I aim to be part of a team that sets the mark for others.

10. Adaptable - The digital media scene changes constantly and you have to be able to try new things to connect with your target audience. I am comfortable with staying on top of the latest digital platforms being used by target markets and adapting content to that specific platform, rather than the same content across multi-platforms.


**BONUS - I love to bake...and have been known to frequently bring in cakes, pies and muffins to work!

FAQs

I am obviously really, really wanting some work right now! But to save companies some trouble, here are a few questions I usually get asked in application processes/interviews anyways!

Q: What area are you in and how far are you willing to travel?
A: I am in the Greater Manchester area, but I am willing to travel around the North West for a position I know I would excel in.

Q: What's the catch?
A: No catch! I am able to work at any company with no limitations!

Q: What are you salary requirements?
A: I am happy to discuss this, along with my qualifications. Just send me an e-mail!

Q: Have you signed up for Indeed/Reed/CV Library/Any Job Search Website Here?
A: Yes, yes, and yes. I have several emails weekly with the latest job alerts, and I still do a manual search (just in case) daily!

Q: Are you only looking to get into sport?
A: Although my MPhil thesis focuses greatly on football, many of the new responsibilities clubs have with new media and their fans can be applied to any sector with their target market! I am also currently taking a Social Media Marketing specialization which focuses on businesses in general. I would feel comfortable working in most sectors so please, don't let that put you off!

Q: What is it you want to do exactly?
A: My MPhil degree really focused on the uses of new media and new responsibilities that have come with is as fans (consumers) have become more active in wanting to feel part of the club (company). I would thrive in a digital marketing environment or as a customer/fan liaison role where I can help strengthen relationships and maintain healthy ones. This would include using new media and social media, and creating content to connect with target audiences.

Q: What are your skills?
A: Social media marketing, creating content, digital media, fan/customer engagement, event planning. These are skills acquired through work experiences and education. I am still looking for that breakthrough position though to be able to utilise and develop them better, and I am always keen on further professional development as the digital media side grows. If you think my skills are something your company could be looking for, please contact me (see below)!

Q: Have you tried recruiters?
A: Yes! And I will continue this route as well until I get that start in my career.

Q: How can I get in contact?
A: You can connect with me on Twitter, LinkedIn or E-mail.

My Experiences

While education is very important, I did my best to gain vital experience whilst studying so I can use the skills I have learned in the classroom, as well as gain new ones. My experiences have been amazing, and I am sure the skills I have gained working on various projects would prove to be vital in your team!

Everton Football Club January 2013 – October 2015

Liverpool, UK

Social Inclusion Coach

My role included working alongside Everton in the Community’s “Pass on the Memories” programme that works with those living with dementia and “Stand Together”, a new programme designed to help reduce social isolation in older people. The duties included:

• ·         Planning public events, from research, venue hire, booking entertainment and arranging special guests and local organisations for information stalls.
• ·         Running the project’s social media pages to promote the programme as well as keep participants and partners up to date with the events of the programme.
• ·         Planning (arranging appropriate activities, speakers and trips) and delivering a programme for those diagnosed with dementia and their carers.
• ·         Evaluating the impact of the projects and analysing other various data.
• ·         Delivering Dementia Friends sessions to employees of the club to work towards becoming the first “Dementia Friendly” stadium, as well as to members of the public to contribute to a wider understanding.
• ·         Working alongside other community groups to create effective strategies in raising awareness, such as the Liverpool Dementia Action Alliance.

Liverpool Hope University September 2010 – July 2015

Liverpool, UK

Student Ambassador

Alongside my studies, I worked with the University’s Reprographics/Media Services department, which included:

• ·         Various printing and designing for internal and external personal and marketing needs.
• ·         Administration work, including the handling of departmental financial data.
• ·         Serving customers in the University shop, tidying the shop, cashing up and restocking as needed.
• ·         In addition, I have performed front desk duties, including student post and secretarial work.
• ·         I have also worked alongside incoming international students as a mentor during their time in Liverpool, including inductions and planning cultural events.

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While studying, I gained work experience in fan engagement and journalism with Everton Football Club, Liverpool Football Club and the Liverpool Echo. The experiences allowed me to develop new skills I couldn't get strictly in a classroom, as well as new found confidence. They allowed me to create blogs and articles that were published. I really enjoyed myself during my work experiences! Below is a bit more detail into my responsibilities:

Everton Football Club  August 2014 – November 2014

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience as Marketing and Communications Assistant

I was given the opportunity to assist in the Marketing and Communications department at Everton on a volunteer level. My projects have included:

• ·         Assisting the Supporter Liaison Officer with fans’ forums.
• ·         Planning an upcoming open training day.
• ·         Assisting in the development of the club’s Away Fan Initiative for the 2014/15 season. This has involved researching ideas and appropriate away venues for travelling supporters, and then assisting in coordinating the away trip.

Liverpool Echo March 12, 2012 – March 16, 2012

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience in Journalism

I was involved with:

• ·         General newsgathering for local stories for daily publication, including producing stories in education and sport.
• ·         Observing interviews and attended a pre-match football press conference.

Liverpool Football Club May 3, 2011 – May 13, 2011

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience in Journalism

·         My main focus was on digital media and to assist in the promotion of the club’s own social media site. To do this, I produced a blog for the club to put on social media.

·         I also produced nine stories relating to the club published on the official website.

Don't forget you always connect with me via LinkedIn!