Why is it so hard to find a job? Employment

Finding a job can be and is hard for a lot of people. This could be for a number of reasons. Perhaps you have been out of work for a long time due to ill-health or having children. Perhaps you’ve recently been made redundant and find yourself asking the question: what next? Whatever the circumstances, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in the challenges you’re facing – and help is available. 

Your CV and the application process

There are a number of factors that can contribute to difficulty finding a job. The first of these might be that your CV isn’t up-to-date, or you’re out of practice with applying for jobs or doing interviews. If this is the case, the first step is to take some time to take a look at each of these things. We have a range of free resources on our website that can help you with this. These are: 

The above articles will give you in-depth advice on job searching, creating a CV, writing a personal statement, interview tips and tricks and more. All of these can help you take a step back and look at the process, making adjustments where necessary and appropriate. 

Your mental and physical health

Finding a job can also be difficult for other reasons, too. It may be that you are lacking in confidence, or have low self-esteem. The power of these feelings are not to be underestimated, they can be a real barrier to finding work. If this is the case, but you’re keen to find a new job, then connecting with help is really the first step to overcoming these feelings. 

It may be that you would benefit from a confidence-building and employability course. These types of training sessions can help you to become more self-confident and feel better able to handle the application and interview process. Or, if you have experienced mental health difficulties in the past, it may be that you need more support to manage these before you enter the world of work. 

For more information on building confidence, returning to work after sickness, or finding a job after maternity leave, take a look at the resources below: 

Your qualifications 

Whether you have been working in one job for a while, or out of work for a time, it may be that working on your qualifications and undertaking training can help you move forward. Maths and English qualifications to a certain level are generally required for many jobs, so this would be a fantastic place to start. But, beyond this, if you have a passion for a certain field of work or sector then there are many training courses out there that can help to get you started. 

Sometimes, it can feel hopeless when you feel you are lacking in the necessary skills. But there are plenty of resources available to you that can help equip you with these skills and kickstart a new career

Your experience 

If you don’t have much work experience, this can be a significant barrier to finding work. This, however, is very easily remedied in a number of ways. The first of which is volunteering. Volunteering offers fantastic opportunities to get relevant experience and a recent reference. More than that, it can help to build your confidence, help you get back into the rhythm of work and give you an idea of what kind of work you enjoy. 

The same can be said of work placements, which again give you a chance to ‘try before you buy’ without committing fully to one job. 

Are you finding job hunting difficult? Contact us! 

Building Better Opportunities operate in Stafford and South Staffordshire. Our aim is to work with people who are out of work in whatever way they need and support them in creating a balance in their life that includes good health (mental and physical), employment, new skills, and secure finances

Working closely with one of our Advocates, individuals with BBO undertake a bespoke personal development programme that targets key areas. This looks different for everyone and is highly personalised to make sure you feel confident in your next steps. If you are looking for a job and need support, why not come and see us at one of our drop-in sessions? Our Advocates regularly feature in libraries and community centres across Stafford and South Staffordshire and are on hand to help you should you need it. 

Alternatively, if you would like to have a chat with one of our friendly members of staff before attending a drop-in session, you can give us a call. Or, fill in the enquiry form below to request a callback.