18 months of job hunting - at my wits end!

[Fun Bus]

I'll keep this short but in truth, it's been nearly 18 months of misery.

I have been in Logistics and transport for 13 years. In that time, I have attained professional qualifications, reached senior management level and have my own Limited company that I have done interim work through. I've worked with some big names on some big projects/contracts too but that all seems worthless right now.

In June 2015, I was told by my then client that the 6 month contract would not be extended nor made permanent. Disappointed but understanding that that is the risk of interim, I set about looking for my next move - both under my own steam and by getting in touch with recruitment consultants I know. Since then, I have done a 9 week interim role and that's been it.

I've had countless approaches from consultants, interviews, meetings and made no end of applications myself. But nothing. Recruitment consultants tell me that my broad knowledge of the industry is brilliant to have and how they're sure most companies would want me, but when it comes to it, I'm then told I'm too niche without direct experience of the role being sought.

I am, as you can imagine utterly frustrated. I underwent a course of career counselling and, whilst I got a very good personality profile I was basically told that I'm doing what is right for me - a Logistics Consultant. It may be right for me, but I'm not getting the work.

Any input appreciated. I'm now considering other industries but of course, have 13 years in one industry and no other!

[Fun Bus]

I'm in Nottingham.

[Fun Bus]

Niche is possibly the wrong word.

I don't have, for example all my experience being a Operations Manager for example. I've operations/warehouse/planning/transport management experience. A lot of process improvement and cost saving experience too.

So perhaps my niche is that I've broad experience instead of just one type of role.

I want to go permanent now too. I don't like the uncertainty of of interim even though the money is very good.

[Fun Bus]

Yes, I think I've a transferable skill set for such a role. However, I'm learning that all too often it's a case of "You've not done it before so we're not interested in you..."

I may not have done many roles directly but have the skills and background to transfer in to most things in transport and distribution.

[Fun Bus]

Everyone, thanks for you input, I appreciate it.

I'd like to think I could secure a £25k pa role in the industry but would be taking massive (10s of thousands) pay cut and I'm not comfortable with that.

rog007 said:

Let me see your CV and then let me know why you think nothing has materialised. I'd also want to know your preference for perm or temp and minimum wage. And any constraints on location/commute.

Thanks. I'll send a copy over. We've been in touch before and I'd now consider drawing further on your expertise.

I realise there would a cost associated with it.

[Fun Bus]

BoRED S2upid said:

phil-sti said:

http://eddiestobart.com/careers/vacancies

Job done. A few jobs he can apply for on there that seem ideal for him.

And I don't disagree. But most are 50%+ less per annum than I have been earning or are lorry driving roles for vehicles I don't have the right license for.

[Fun Bus]

phil-sti said:

So you can be picky then? Surely something is better than nothing.

I'm not being picky because I've had no offers at any level. And that includes roles paying less, in a different industry.

I also worry that taking a massive pay cut would look odd on my CV and career path.

"So Mr Fun Bus, you were earning a million pounds a year but then took a job at £250k pa. Why? Not good enough? Not able to perform at that level?"

[Fun Bus]

My CV is tailored for 90% of roles I apply for. I'll pick out my achievements which are relevant to the role I'm applying for and emphasise what else I think is relevant.

[Fun Bus]

Rog007 you have PM.

[Fun Bus]

A belated update.

Had the expertise of Rog007 who made me look at how to write a CV in a totally different light. I'd recommend him without doubt.

Nothing has yet changed, I'm now lowering my expectations considerably in order to get a foothold back in the industry. I'll not lie, it's a kick in the teeth to consider a 50% cut in salary.

I've had interviews, gone to the final 3 but no further. I'm not giving up either.

[Fun Bus]

Thanks for the offer but I'm happy with the work Rog007 did on it for me. I've much more confidence in my CV now than I was.

I just need it to keep getting me in front of people now!

[Fun Bus]

Ah, got you! Thanks, will drop a PM.