I am a loser when it comes to jobs, what possibilities do I have?
I currently have a huge problem. Normally when you leave school in my country (Germany) you do a training for a specific job or start studying. Well I decided to try my, or let's say our, own way and started to be self-employed together with my parents. We started to be successful at first, but then it slowly went to financial crisis.
I early on found out that this concept won't be my future as I was bound into the family and all the problems that I and my other siblings who walked the "normal way" normally did not have "insight into" and as you can guess, if there were financial problems, I also received no money "because the family needs it". Therefore my motivation went to 0 quickly. But I started to continue doing my own thing and went into developing and creative work. I had the problem that I started many things but did not really finish them. I earned some bucks and also "respect" from companies for several things but in "special places" where they do not offer jobs.
And now my current situation. All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it." The problem is: My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished. I thought about creating a creative application with photoshop or some graphics, at other places I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
I had / have a chance to launch my first own project, but now I need to look for an apartment because we as a family again have financial problems and live in a small space where I'm extremely stressed and get to bed sometimes crying because I feel overwhelmed. Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse, which makes it even harder (but I don't want to get deeper into this). I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself. But till today there was always something preventing me to get one. So I am thinking to accept "any job" to get my own apartment and from there on continue my life.
So now to my question, you might have experienced similar issues: How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things? And should I also go for "higher jobs"? And how can I overcome having low self confidence? When there's an opportunity, I always tell myself that I am too bad for it, they will find better guys and I cannot do this job or I do not have enough qualities for this. I really get nervous thinking about working at a job and not being good enough and then maybe even getting fired. And I look up to the team and see how experienced they all are, what school they visited and then there's me. I saw an offer for example for a level 1-2 support, which would be great because I work on a computer (what I like more than in a factory or store) but they for example require a training as mentioned above.
stress anxiety depression
New contributor
|
show 2 more comments
I currently have a huge problem. Normally when you leave school in my country (Germany) you do a training for a specific job or start studying. Well I decided to try my, or let's say our, own way and started to be self-employed together with my parents. We started to be successful at first, but then it slowly went to financial crisis.
I early on found out that this concept won't be my future as I was bound into the family and all the problems that I and my other siblings who walked the "normal way" normally did not have "insight into" and as you can guess, if there were financial problems, I also received no money "because the family needs it". Therefore my motivation went to 0 quickly. But I started to continue doing my own thing and went into developing and creative work. I had the problem that I started many things but did not really finish them. I earned some bucks and also "respect" from companies for several things but in "special places" where they do not offer jobs.
And now my current situation. All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it." The problem is: My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished. I thought about creating a creative application with photoshop or some graphics, at other places I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
I had / have a chance to launch my first own project, but now I need to look for an apartment because we as a family again have financial problems and live in a small space where I'm extremely stressed and get to bed sometimes crying because I feel overwhelmed. Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse, which makes it even harder (but I don't want to get deeper into this). I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself. But till today there was always something preventing me to get one. So I am thinking to accept "any job" to get my own apartment and from there on continue my life.
So now to my question, you might have experienced similar issues: How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things? And should I also go for "higher jobs"? And how can I overcome having low self confidence? When there's an opportunity, I always tell myself that I am too bad for it, they will find better guys and I cannot do this job or I do not have enough qualities for this. I really get nervous thinking about working at a job and not being good enough and then maybe even getting fired. And I look up to the team and see how experienced they all are, what school they visited and then there's me. I saw an offer for example for a level 1-2 support, which would be great because I work on a computer (what I like more than in a factory or store) but they for example require a training as mentioned above.
stress anxiety depression
New contributor
1
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
2
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
1
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
I currently have a huge problem. Normally when you leave school in my country (Germany) you do a training for a specific job or start studying. Well I decided to try my, or let's say our, own way and started to be self-employed together with my parents. We started to be successful at first, but then it slowly went to financial crisis.
I early on found out that this concept won't be my future as I was bound into the family and all the problems that I and my other siblings who walked the "normal way" normally did not have "insight into" and as you can guess, if there were financial problems, I also received no money "because the family needs it". Therefore my motivation went to 0 quickly. But I started to continue doing my own thing and went into developing and creative work. I had the problem that I started many things but did not really finish them. I earned some bucks and also "respect" from companies for several things but in "special places" where they do not offer jobs.
And now my current situation. All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it." The problem is: My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished. I thought about creating a creative application with photoshop or some graphics, at other places I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
I had / have a chance to launch my first own project, but now I need to look for an apartment because we as a family again have financial problems and live in a small space where I'm extremely stressed and get to bed sometimes crying because I feel overwhelmed. Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse, which makes it even harder (but I don't want to get deeper into this). I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself. But till today there was always something preventing me to get one. So I am thinking to accept "any job" to get my own apartment and from there on continue my life.
So now to my question, you might have experienced similar issues: How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things? And should I also go for "higher jobs"? And how can I overcome having low self confidence? When there's an opportunity, I always tell myself that I am too bad for it, they will find better guys and I cannot do this job or I do not have enough qualities for this. I really get nervous thinking about working at a job and not being good enough and then maybe even getting fired. And I look up to the team and see how experienced they all are, what school they visited and then there's me. I saw an offer for example for a level 1-2 support, which would be great because I work on a computer (what I like more than in a factory or store) but they for example require a training as mentioned above.
stress anxiety depression
New contributor
I currently have a huge problem. Normally when you leave school in my country (Germany) you do a training for a specific job or start studying. Well I decided to try my, or let's say our, own way and started to be self-employed together with my parents. We started to be successful at first, but then it slowly went to financial crisis.
I early on found out that this concept won't be my future as I was bound into the family and all the problems that I and my other siblings who walked the "normal way" normally did not have "insight into" and as you can guess, if there were financial problems, I also received no money "because the family needs it". Therefore my motivation went to 0 quickly. But I started to continue doing my own thing and went into developing and creative work. I had the problem that I started many things but did not really finish them. I earned some bucks and also "respect" from companies for several things but in "special places" where they do not offer jobs.
And now my current situation. All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it." The problem is: My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished. I thought about creating a creative application with photoshop or some graphics, at other places I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
I had / have a chance to launch my first own project, but now I need to look for an apartment because we as a family again have financial problems and live in a small space where I'm extremely stressed and get to bed sometimes crying because I feel overwhelmed. Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse, which makes it even harder (but I don't want to get deeper into this). I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself. But till today there was always something preventing me to get one. So I am thinking to accept "any job" to get my own apartment and from there on continue my life.
So now to my question, you might have experienced similar issues: How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things? And should I also go for "higher jobs"? And how can I overcome having low self confidence? When there's an opportunity, I always tell myself that I am too bad for it, they will find better guys and I cannot do this job or I do not have enough qualities for this. I really get nervous thinking about working at a job and not being good enough and then maybe even getting fired. And I look up to the team and see how experienced they all are, what school they visited and then there's me. I saw an offer for example for a level 1-2 support, which would be great because I work on a computer (what I like more than in a factory or store) but they for example require a training as mentioned above.
stress anxiety depression
stress anxiety depression
New contributor
New contributor
edited 2 hours ago
Uciebila
35913
35913
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asked 3 hours ago
MarkMark
252
252
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1
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
2
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
1
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
1
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
2
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
1
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago
1
1
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
2
2
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
1
1
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago
|
show 2 more comments
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
because there's nothing I've finished.
So, finish some stuff.
You can do what a lot of people do, find a job that pays the bills while you work on your skills and projects for the industry you want to be in. I did everything from manual labouring, to bouncing, to office cleaning before breaking into IT, but when I finally did I did so fully qualified with work to show.
Give yourself advantages, don't set yourself up for failure.
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
The problem is: My application is shit
At your next visit to the Agentur für Arbeit, ask them for a Bewerbungstraining (application training). When your conselor believes that it might help you to find a job, then they will pay for it. I participated in such a training a long time ago and it really helped me a lot. There is really a lot you can learn about how to make your failures sound like successes, downplay your weaknesses and focus on your strengths. Such a training also helps a lot to build confidence.
Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse
Seek professional help. Depression is a medical disorder which can affect anyone. It is not a sign of personal weakness. There is no shame in going to a psychotherapist.
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
You might want to apply for a Ausbildung (apprenticeship). The pay is quite bad: Between 500€ and 1000€ per month depending on profession (IT professions are at the upper end, though). But it's easy to find an Ausbildungsplatz (apprenticeship position) without any work experience, because the whole system is designed for people straight out of school. Very few companies will be willing to hire people for any skilled jobs who have neither a university degree nor an apprenticeship, so this is often a necessary first step for a professional career.
I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself.
This is more of a topic for Personal Finance & Money Stack Exchange, but there might actually be ways for you to finance one:
Apprentices can receive BAföG (government-sponsored student loans) in some situations.- When you can't get get BAföG you can often get Wohngeld (the government pays part of your rent).
- When your salary as an apprentice still isn't enough for an own appartment and living with your parents is no longer feasible for personal and mental health reasons, you might be eligible for partial welfare ("Aufstocken")
add a comment |
All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it."
Well, yes. I'm not really sure how else you'd expect it to work?
My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished.
Focus on what you did - you mention having done some paid work. Get descriptions of that on your CV, what you did, what skills you used and who you did it for. Contact some of the companies that you say "respect" you and see if they would be willing to provide references to this effect. If you're not sure whether your application/CV is any good or not then get a friend or family member to check it over and give you some pointers. Heck, there's usually someone kicking around in Workplace Chat who will be happy to give it a once over for you.
I thought about creating a creative application with photoshops or some graphics
If you're applying to a creative/design position then this can be useful. Anything else don't - nothing screams "I'm trying to distract you from my flimsy application" quite like graphics and other fripperies.
I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
If you're using a website to showcase your creative/design skills I'd avoid using a template.
How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things?
It depends on the position you're applying for - everyone has to "start" somewhere so there are entry level jobs where there isn't the same expectation of having experience. In these cases "I am ready to learn new things" is exactly the right attitude!
Regarding "I did nothing professionally" while it might not feel like it you have. You mention some paid design/development work, even your family business venture counts! So rather than saying "I've done nothing" say something like:
After school I joined a family business that unfortunately was unsuccessful and I've been doing some freelance work since then but I'm really keen to grow and develop that into a career using those skills so I'm very motivated to learn and develop my skills.
Success in getting entry level jobs is at least 50% showing the right mindset!
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
With all kindness I have to say no. The higher level the job the more likely companies are to want to be seeing some pretty substantial evidence that you've got experience and can do what they need. The rewards are greater certainly but so is the expectation and it just doesn't sound like you are there yet.
Regarding the depression
This isn't really something we can help with here at The Workplace SE but I didn't want to just ignore it - depression royally sucks and can have an inordinately crippling effect on your ability just to get through the day. But you aren't alone and it's not your fault and it can be treated/beaten, see your doctor, see a counselor, do both and above all cut yourself some slack and be nice to yourself.
Hope things start looking up for you soon!
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
You might want to try some accredited courses in the field that you want to work. This is if you are set on a specific field and somewhat sure that you want to pursue a certain career, because this would mean a couple of months when you just learn, not earn any money and also have to pay for the courses. During this time you could get "any job" to cover the costs (I believe most jobs are paid decently in Germany). This could help you build a better CV even if the school system failed to teach you marketable skills. It's never too late to change your career direction, if you're willing to learn.
About being afraid to apply or not being good enough at your job after you get it, this is something most people experience at the start of their career. What you need to focus on here is that it's the company's job to decide if you're good enough and it's your duty to apply no matter what if you desire that position (and be truthful in your CV). After that, if they select you and despite you doing your best, you are still not up to the tasks, it's their recruiting process that failed. Good luck!
New contributor
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
add a comment |
Hello and welcome to the workplace!
I have been in your place before (sort of).
When I moved to the UK I did so alone, I stayed at a family friend's house for 3 weeks but then it was time to move. Moved into a room in a shared house and eventually into a flat and now into a house.
Things take time, take one step at a time and don't worry about the rest.
My first job in the UK was in a factory, it took me some time to get into customer service as I was branded as a factory worker as that was my first job. I have recently (2 years ago) moved into IT through internal applications and I am now working as a business analyst.
As you can see, things can be achieved, but you have to break it down into processable chunks.
For what you mentioned your first priority is leaving alone so:
1 - Get a job anywhere! - Use agencies, local businesses, fastfood chains.
Keep a steady income from your workplace and move out.
2 - Move out! - No this is a tricky one. You want to go into IT so you will need to use most of your disposable income in training/certification for you to achieve this. Budget, budget, budget. Check how much you can safely pay each month for acommodation + expenses. Ensure you can always safe at least 10% of your income for a "rainy day" fund and still have some disposable income to use for the courses.
3 - Set yourself goals! - Set a goal of how long until you sign up for a MCSA or Comptia certification course. Set a goal for what your salary needs to be to sustain your lifestyle + further certificates (which are usually pricier than the entry level ones).
4 - apply for support jobs, apply for anything that has any sort of IT component in the title or specification. Use all the interviews as training sources so that when the job you REALLY want shows up, you know how to behave.
5 - (possibly should be number 2) Find a hobby! If you struggle with depression being alone might not be the best if all you do everyday is work. Find a hobby that makes you stretch. This can be anything from gaming (TCG like magic the gathering are great for this) or indie game development and anything in-between.
That is my 2c piece of advice regarding your job position. Regarding the depression and personal problems, please seek professional help. All of this means nothing if you are not happy nor enjoy life.
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
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5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
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active
oldest
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because there's nothing I've finished.
So, finish some stuff.
You can do what a lot of people do, find a job that pays the bills while you work on your skills and projects for the industry you want to be in. I did everything from manual labouring, to bouncing, to office cleaning before breaking into IT, but when I finally did I did so fully qualified with work to show.
Give yourself advantages, don't set yourself up for failure.
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
because there's nothing I've finished.
So, finish some stuff.
You can do what a lot of people do, find a job that pays the bills while you work on your skills and projects for the industry you want to be in. I did everything from manual labouring, to bouncing, to office cleaning before breaking into IT, but when I finally did I did so fully qualified with work to show.
Give yourself advantages, don't set yourself up for failure.
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
because there's nothing I've finished.
So, finish some stuff.
You can do what a lot of people do, find a job that pays the bills while you work on your skills and projects for the industry you want to be in. I did everything from manual labouring, to bouncing, to office cleaning before breaking into IT, but when I finally did I did so fully qualified with work to show.
Give yourself advantages, don't set yourself up for failure.
because there's nothing I've finished.
So, finish some stuff.
You can do what a lot of people do, find a job that pays the bills while you work on your skills and projects for the industry you want to be in. I did everything from manual labouring, to bouncing, to office cleaning before breaking into IT, but when I finally did I did so fully qualified with work to show.
Give yourself advantages, don't set yourself up for failure.
answered 3 hours ago
KilisiKilisi
120k69266460
120k69266460
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
2
2
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
Thank you, that are exactly my plans. Do a "not-so-fine" job but having room and space for myself and building me up. Thank you!
– Mark
3 hours ago
2
2
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
+1, I worked in a call centre, post office etc and didn't have my first programming job till I was 28. I did work experience in IT support and sharpened my skills in my own time waiting for a chance.
– Dustybin80
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
That's great @Dustybin80, thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
The problem is: My application is shit
At your next visit to the Agentur für Arbeit, ask them for a Bewerbungstraining (application training). When your conselor believes that it might help you to find a job, then they will pay for it. I participated in such a training a long time ago and it really helped me a lot. There is really a lot you can learn about how to make your failures sound like successes, downplay your weaknesses and focus on your strengths. Such a training also helps a lot to build confidence.
Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse
Seek professional help. Depression is a medical disorder which can affect anyone. It is not a sign of personal weakness. There is no shame in going to a psychotherapist.
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
You might want to apply for a Ausbildung (apprenticeship). The pay is quite bad: Between 500€ and 1000€ per month depending on profession (IT professions are at the upper end, though). But it's easy to find an Ausbildungsplatz (apprenticeship position) without any work experience, because the whole system is designed for people straight out of school. Very few companies will be willing to hire people for any skilled jobs who have neither a university degree nor an apprenticeship, so this is often a necessary first step for a professional career.
I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself.
This is more of a topic for Personal Finance & Money Stack Exchange, but there might actually be ways for you to finance one:
Apprentices can receive BAföG (government-sponsored student loans) in some situations.- When you can't get get BAföG you can often get Wohngeld (the government pays part of your rent).
- When your salary as an apprentice still isn't enough for an own appartment and living with your parents is no longer feasible for personal and mental health reasons, you might be eligible for partial welfare ("Aufstocken")
add a comment |
The problem is: My application is shit
At your next visit to the Agentur für Arbeit, ask them for a Bewerbungstraining (application training). When your conselor believes that it might help you to find a job, then they will pay for it. I participated in such a training a long time ago and it really helped me a lot. There is really a lot you can learn about how to make your failures sound like successes, downplay your weaknesses and focus on your strengths. Such a training also helps a lot to build confidence.
Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse
Seek professional help. Depression is a medical disorder which can affect anyone. It is not a sign of personal weakness. There is no shame in going to a psychotherapist.
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
You might want to apply for a Ausbildung (apprenticeship). The pay is quite bad: Between 500€ and 1000€ per month depending on profession (IT professions are at the upper end, though). But it's easy to find an Ausbildungsplatz (apprenticeship position) without any work experience, because the whole system is designed for people straight out of school. Very few companies will be willing to hire people for any skilled jobs who have neither a university degree nor an apprenticeship, so this is often a necessary first step for a professional career.
I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself.
This is more of a topic for Personal Finance & Money Stack Exchange, but there might actually be ways for you to finance one:
Apprentices can receive BAföG (government-sponsored student loans) in some situations.- When you can't get get BAföG you can often get Wohngeld (the government pays part of your rent).
- When your salary as an apprentice still isn't enough for an own appartment and living with your parents is no longer feasible for personal and mental health reasons, you might be eligible for partial welfare ("Aufstocken")
add a comment |
The problem is: My application is shit
At your next visit to the Agentur für Arbeit, ask them for a Bewerbungstraining (application training). When your conselor believes that it might help you to find a job, then they will pay for it. I participated in such a training a long time ago and it really helped me a lot. There is really a lot you can learn about how to make your failures sound like successes, downplay your weaknesses and focus on your strengths. Such a training also helps a lot to build confidence.
Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse
Seek professional help. Depression is a medical disorder which can affect anyone. It is not a sign of personal weakness. There is no shame in going to a psychotherapist.
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
You might want to apply for a Ausbildung (apprenticeship). The pay is quite bad: Between 500€ and 1000€ per month depending on profession (IT professions are at the upper end, though). But it's easy to find an Ausbildungsplatz (apprenticeship position) without any work experience, because the whole system is designed for people straight out of school. Very few companies will be willing to hire people for any skilled jobs who have neither a university degree nor an apprenticeship, so this is often a necessary first step for a professional career.
I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself.
This is more of a topic for Personal Finance & Money Stack Exchange, but there might actually be ways for you to finance one:
Apprentices can receive BAföG (government-sponsored student loans) in some situations.- When you can't get get BAföG you can often get Wohngeld (the government pays part of your rent).
- When your salary as an apprentice still isn't enough for an own appartment and living with your parents is no longer feasible for personal and mental health reasons, you might be eligible for partial welfare ("Aufstocken")
The problem is: My application is shit
At your next visit to the Agentur für Arbeit, ask them for a Bewerbungstraining (application training). When your conselor believes that it might help you to find a job, then they will pay for it. I participated in such a training a long time ago and it really helped me a lot. There is really a lot you can learn about how to make your failures sound like successes, downplay your weaknesses and focus on your strengths. Such a training also helps a lot to build confidence.
Partly because of family issues and I partly problems with depression and worse
Seek professional help. Depression is a medical disorder which can affect anyone. It is not a sign of personal weakness. There is no shame in going to a psychotherapist.
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
You might want to apply for a Ausbildung (apprenticeship). The pay is quite bad: Between 500€ and 1000€ per month depending on profession (IT professions are at the upper end, though). But it's easy to find an Ausbildungsplatz (apprenticeship position) without any work experience, because the whole system is designed for people straight out of school. Very few companies will be willing to hire people for any skilled jobs who have neither a university degree nor an apprenticeship, so this is often a necessary first step for a professional career.
I love being alone so I would love to have a very small apartment for myself.
This is more of a topic for Personal Finance & Money Stack Exchange, but there might actually be ways for you to finance one:
Apprentices can receive BAföG (government-sponsored student loans) in some situations.- When you can't get get BAföG you can often get Wohngeld (the government pays part of your rent).
- When your salary as an apprentice still isn't enough for an own appartment and living with your parents is no longer feasible for personal and mental health reasons, you might be eligible for partial welfare ("Aufstocken")
edited 24 mins ago
answered 1 hour ago
PhilippPhilipp
23.5k45591
23.5k45591
add a comment |
add a comment |
All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it."
Well, yes. I'm not really sure how else you'd expect it to work?
My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished.
Focus on what you did - you mention having done some paid work. Get descriptions of that on your CV, what you did, what skills you used and who you did it for. Contact some of the companies that you say "respect" you and see if they would be willing to provide references to this effect. If you're not sure whether your application/CV is any good or not then get a friend or family member to check it over and give you some pointers. Heck, there's usually someone kicking around in Workplace Chat who will be happy to give it a once over for you.
I thought about creating a creative application with photoshops or some graphics
If you're applying to a creative/design position then this can be useful. Anything else don't - nothing screams "I'm trying to distract you from my flimsy application" quite like graphics and other fripperies.
I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
If you're using a website to showcase your creative/design skills I'd avoid using a template.
How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things?
It depends on the position you're applying for - everyone has to "start" somewhere so there are entry level jobs where there isn't the same expectation of having experience. In these cases "I am ready to learn new things" is exactly the right attitude!
Regarding "I did nothing professionally" while it might not feel like it you have. You mention some paid design/development work, even your family business venture counts! So rather than saying "I've done nothing" say something like:
After school I joined a family business that unfortunately was unsuccessful and I've been doing some freelance work since then but I'm really keen to grow and develop that into a career using those skills so I'm very motivated to learn and develop my skills.
Success in getting entry level jobs is at least 50% showing the right mindset!
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
With all kindness I have to say no. The higher level the job the more likely companies are to want to be seeing some pretty substantial evidence that you've got experience and can do what they need. The rewards are greater certainly but so is the expectation and it just doesn't sound like you are there yet.
Regarding the depression
This isn't really something we can help with here at The Workplace SE but I didn't want to just ignore it - depression royally sucks and can have an inordinately crippling effect on your ability just to get through the day. But you aren't alone and it's not your fault and it can be treated/beaten, see your doctor, see a counselor, do both and above all cut yourself some slack and be nice to yourself.
Hope things start looking up for you soon!
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it."
Well, yes. I'm not really sure how else you'd expect it to work?
My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished.
Focus on what you did - you mention having done some paid work. Get descriptions of that on your CV, what you did, what skills you used and who you did it for. Contact some of the companies that you say "respect" you and see if they would be willing to provide references to this effect. If you're not sure whether your application/CV is any good or not then get a friend or family member to check it over and give you some pointers. Heck, there's usually someone kicking around in Workplace Chat who will be happy to give it a once over for you.
I thought about creating a creative application with photoshops or some graphics
If you're applying to a creative/design position then this can be useful. Anything else don't - nothing screams "I'm trying to distract you from my flimsy application" quite like graphics and other fripperies.
I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
If you're using a website to showcase your creative/design skills I'd avoid using a template.
How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things?
It depends on the position you're applying for - everyone has to "start" somewhere so there are entry level jobs where there isn't the same expectation of having experience. In these cases "I am ready to learn new things" is exactly the right attitude!
Regarding "I did nothing professionally" while it might not feel like it you have. You mention some paid design/development work, even your family business venture counts! So rather than saying "I've done nothing" say something like:
After school I joined a family business that unfortunately was unsuccessful and I've been doing some freelance work since then but I'm really keen to grow and develop that into a career using those skills so I'm very motivated to learn and develop my skills.
Success in getting entry level jobs is at least 50% showing the right mindset!
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
With all kindness I have to say no. The higher level the job the more likely companies are to want to be seeing some pretty substantial evidence that you've got experience and can do what they need. The rewards are greater certainly but so is the expectation and it just doesn't sound like you are there yet.
Regarding the depression
This isn't really something we can help with here at The Workplace SE but I didn't want to just ignore it - depression royally sucks and can have an inordinately crippling effect on your ability just to get through the day. But you aren't alone and it's not your fault and it can be treated/beaten, see your doctor, see a counselor, do both and above all cut yourself some slack and be nice to yourself.
Hope things start looking up for you soon!
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it."
Well, yes. I'm not really sure how else you'd expect it to work?
My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished.
Focus on what you did - you mention having done some paid work. Get descriptions of that on your CV, what you did, what skills you used and who you did it for. Contact some of the companies that you say "respect" you and see if they would be willing to provide references to this effect. If you're not sure whether your application/CV is any good or not then get a friend or family member to check it over and give you some pointers. Heck, there's usually someone kicking around in Workplace Chat who will be happy to give it a once over for you.
I thought about creating a creative application with photoshops or some graphics
If you're applying to a creative/design position then this can be useful. Anything else don't - nothing screams "I'm trying to distract you from my flimsy application" quite like graphics and other fripperies.
I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
If you're using a website to showcase your creative/design skills I'd avoid using a template.
How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things?
It depends on the position you're applying for - everyone has to "start" somewhere so there are entry level jobs where there isn't the same expectation of having experience. In these cases "I am ready to learn new things" is exactly the right attitude!
Regarding "I did nothing professionally" while it might not feel like it you have. You mention some paid design/development work, even your family business venture counts! So rather than saying "I've done nothing" say something like:
After school I joined a family business that unfortunately was unsuccessful and I've been doing some freelance work since then but I'm really keen to grow and develop that into a career using those skills so I'm very motivated to learn and develop my skills.
Success in getting entry level jobs is at least 50% showing the right mindset!
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
With all kindness I have to say no. The higher level the job the more likely companies are to want to be seeing some pretty substantial evidence that you've got experience and can do what they need. The rewards are greater certainly but so is the expectation and it just doesn't sound like you are there yet.
Regarding the depression
This isn't really something we can help with here at The Workplace SE but I didn't want to just ignore it - depression royally sucks and can have an inordinately crippling effect on your ability just to get through the day. But you aren't alone and it's not your fault and it can be treated/beaten, see your doctor, see a counselor, do both and above all cut yourself some slack and be nice to yourself.
Hope things start looking up for you soon!
All the jobs I want to apply for want an application. I tried to ask for an internship but it ends up with "send us an application, we will look into it."
Well, yes. I'm not really sure how else you'd expect it to work?
My application is shit. I cannot show exactly what I did, because there's nothing I've finished.
Focus on what you did - you mention having done some paid work. Get descriptions of that on your CV, what you did, what skills you used and who you did it for. Contact some of the companies that you say "respect" you and see if they would be willing to provide references to this effect. If you're not sure whether your application/CV is any good or not then get a friend or family member to check it over and give you some pointers. Heck, there's usually someone kicking around in Workplace Chat who will be happy to give it a once over for you.
I thought about creating a creative application with photoshops or some graphics
If you're applying to a creative/design position then this can be useful. Anything else don't - nothing screams "I'm trying to distract you from my flimsy application" quite like graphics and other fripperies.
I wanted to apply with a website but there I would use a bought template.
If you're using a website to showcase your creative/design skills I'd avoid using a template.
How can I apply in the best way? Does it sound bad if I tell the employer that in the last years I did nothing professionally but that I am ready to learn new things?
It depends on the position you're applying for - everyone has to "start" somewhere so there are entry level jobs where there isn't the same expectation of having experience. In these cases "I am ready to learn new things" is exactly the right attitude!
Regarding "I did nothing professionally" while it might not feel like it you have. You mention some paid design/development work, even your family business venture counts! So rather than saying "I've done nothing" say something like:
After school I joined a family business that unfortunately was unsuccessful and I've been doing some freelance work since then but I'm really keen to grow and develop that into a career using those skills so I'm very motivated to learn and develop my skills.
Success in getting entry level jobs is at least 50% showing the right mindset!
And should I also go for "higher jobs"?
With all kindness I have to say no. The higher level the job the more likely companies are to want to be seeing some pretty substantial evidence that you've got experience and can do what they need. The rewards are greater certainly but so is the expectation and it just doesn't sound like you are there yet.
Regarding the depression
This isn't really something we can help with here at The Workplace SE but I didn't want to just ignore it - depression royally sucks and can have an inordinately crippling effect on your ability just to get through the day. But you aren't alone and it's not your fault and it can be treated/beaten, see your doctor, see a counselor, do both and above all cut yourself some slack and be nice to yourself.
Hope things start looking up for you soon!
answered 3 hours ago
motosubatsumotosubatsu
49.1k27133191
49.1k27133191
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
Thank you very much. My initial goal was to apply for a "higher job" as an intern. I do not mean professional job when saying "higher" as almost everything above working in a production, like even working in an office doing entry stuff, is for me already a higher job because it feels like I'm not able to do them yet. But you pointed me some important things, thank you for this! Regarding the depression, it's not that it destroys me or so, but it had a deep impact regarding my life and especially social life. The thing with my "creative application" is, that I can cover the years with more t...
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
... with more than text. For example instead of "I tried to learn X" I show for example a graphic I did or explain the exact task I did but in a creative way. I am not a professional webdesigner so I would need to use templates. But the company I wanted to apply at also used templates on their homepage, even one from 2012. That's where I could have helped.
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
You might want to try some accredited courses in the field that you want to work. This is if you are set on a specific field and somewhat sure that you want to pursue a certain career, because this would mean a couple of months when you just learn, not earn any money and also have to pay for the courses. During this time you could get "any job" to cover the costs (I believe most jobs are paid decently in Germany). This could help you build a better CV even if the school system failed to teach you marketable skills. It's never too late to change your career direction, if you're willing to learn.
About being afraid to apply or not being good enough at your job after you get it, this is something most people experience at the start of their career. What you need to focus on here is that it's the company's job to decide if you're good enough and it's your duty to apply no matter what if you desire that position (and be truthful in your CV). After that, if they select you and despite you doing your best, you are still not up to the tasks, it's their recruiting process that failed. Good luck!
New contributor
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
add a comment |
You might want to try some accredited courses in the field that you want to work. This is if you are set on a specific field and somewhat sure that you want to pursue a certain career, because this would mean a couple of months when you just learn, not earn any money and also have to pay for the courses. During this time you could get "any job" to cover the costs (I believe most jobs are paid decently in Germany). This could help you build a better CV even if the school system failed to teach you marketable skills. It's never too late to change your career direction, if you're willing to learn.
About being afraid to apply or not being good enough at your job after you get it, this is something most people experience at the start of their career. What you need to focus on here is that it's the company's job to decide if you're good enough and it's your duty to apply no matter what if you desire that position (and be truthful in your CV). After that, if they select you and despite you doing your best, you are still not up to the tasks, it's their recruiting process that failed. Good luck!
New contributor
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
add a comment |
You might want to try some accredited courses in the field that you want to work. This is if you are set on a specific field and somewhat sure that you want to pursue a certain career, because this would mean a couple of months when you just learn, not earn any money and also have to pay for the courses. During this time you could get "any job" to cover the costs (I believe most jobs are paid decently in Germany). This could help you build a better CV even if the school system failed to teach you marketable skills. It's never too late to change your career direction, if you're willing to learn.
About being afraid to apply or not being good enough at your job after you get it, this is something most people experience at the start of their career. What you need to focus on here is that it's the company's job to decide if you're good enough and it's your duty to apply no matter what if you desire that position (and be truthful in your CV). After that, if they select you and despite you doing your best, you are still not up to the tasks, it's their recruiting process that failed. Good luck!
New contributor
You might want to try some accredited courses in the field that you want to work. This is if you are set on a specific field and somewhat sure that you want to pursue a certain career, because this would mean a couple of months when you just learn, not earn any money and also have to pay for the courses. During this time you could get "any job" to cover the costs (I believe most jobs are paid decently in Germany). This could help you build a better CV even if the school system failed to teach you marketable skills. It's never too late to change your career direction, if you're willing to learn.
About being afraid to apply or not being good enough at your job after you get it, this is something most people experience at the start of their career. What you need to focus on here is that it's the company's job to decide if you're good enough and it's your duty to apply no matter what if you desire that position (and be truthful in your CV). After that, if they select you and despite you doing your best, you are still not up to the tasks, it's their recruiting process that failed. Good luck!
New contributor
New contributor
answered 3 hours ago
SarbusSarbus
211
211
New contributor
New contributor
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
add a comment |
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
We in germany have a minimum-wage which covers the most needed costs. Depending on where I want to live (I actually could live quiet cheap), I could have some money left to use it for education and learning. For me it's more the fear of applying and especially losing / not being good enough that holds me back.
– Mark
2 hours ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
In that case, focus on the second part of my answer. Study and finish personal projects until you are confident enough and don't let interviews that go badly bring you down, we've all been through them. And if your employer decides you're good enough to be employed, odds are that if you put some effort, you'll do well
– Sarbus
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
Thank you very much! I look more positive now into my future. You guys are helpful!
– Mark
1 hour ago
add a comment |
Hello and welcome to the workplace!
I have been in your place before (sort of).
When I moved to the UK I did so alone, I stayed at a family friend's house for 3 weeks but then it was time to move. Moved into a room in a shared house and eventually into a flat and now into a house.
Things take time, take one step at a time and don't worry about the rest.
My first job in the UK was in a factory, it took me some time to get into customer service as I was branded as a factory worker as that was my first job. I have recently (2 years ago) moved into IT through internal applications and I am now working as a business analyst.
As you can see, things can be achieved, but you have to break it down into processable chunks.
For what you mentioned your first priority is leaving alone so:
1 - Get a job anywhere! - Use agencies, local businesses, fastfood chains.
Keep a steady income from your workplace and move out.
2 - Move out! - No this is a tricky one. You want to go into IT so you will need to use most of your disposable income in training/certification for you to achieve this. Budget, budget, budget. Check how much you can safely pay each month for acommodation + expenses. Ensure you can always safe at least 10% of your income for a "rainy day" fund and still have some disposable income to use for the courses.
3 - Set yourself goals! - Set a goal of how long until you sign up for a MCSA or Comptia certification course. Set a goal for what your salary needs to be to sustain your lifestyle + further certificates (which are usually pricier than the entry level ones).
4 - apply for support jobs, apply for anything that has any sort of IT component in the title or specification. Use all the interviews as training sources so that when the job you REALLY want shows up, you know how to behave.
5 - (possibly should be number 2) Find a hobby! If you struggle with depression being alone might not be the best if all you do everyday is work. Find a hobby that makes you stretch. This can be anything from gaming (TCG like magic the gathering are great for this) or indie game development and anything in-between.
That is my 2c piece of advice regarding your job position. Regarding the depression and personal problems, please seek professional help. All of this means nothing if you are not happy nor enjoy life.
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Hello and welcome to the workplace!
I have been in your place before (sort of).
When I moved to the UK I did so alone, I stayed at a family friend's house for 3 weeks but then it was time to move. Moved into a room in a shared house and eventually into a flat and now into a house.
Things take time, take one step at a time and don't worry about the rest.
My first job in the UK was in a factory, it took me some time to get into customer service as I was branded as a factory worker as that was my first job. I have recently (2 years ago) moved into IT through internal applications and I am now working as a business analyst.
As you can see, things can be achieved, but you have to break it down into processable chunks.
For what you mentioned your first priority is leaving alone so:
1 - Get a job anywhere! - Use agencies, local businesses, fastfood chains.
Keep a steady income from your workplace and move out.
2 - Move out! - No this is a tricky one. You want to go into IT so you will need to use most of your disposable income in training/certification for you to achieve this. Budget, budget, budget. Check how much you can safely pay each month for acommodation + expenses. Ensure you can always safe at least 10% of your income for a "rainy day" fund and still have some disposable income to use for the courses.
3 - Set yourself goals! - Set a goal of how long until you sign up for a MCSA or Comptia certification course. Set a goal for what your salary needs to be to sustain your lifestyle + further certificates (which are usually pricier than the entry level ones).
4 - apply for support jobs, apply for anything that has any sort of IT component in the title or specification. Use all the interviews as training sources so that when the job you REALLY want shows up, you know how to behave.
5 - (possibly should be number 2) Find a hobby! If you struggle with depression being alone might not be the best if all you do everyday is work. Find a hobby that makes you stretch. This can be anything from gaming (TCG like magic the gathering are great for this) or indie game development and anything in-between.
That is my 2c piece of advice regarding your job position. Regarding the depression and personal problems, please seek professional help. All of this means nothing if you are not happy nor enjoy life.
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Hello and welcome to the workplace!
I have been in your place before (sort of).
When I moved to the UK I did so alone, I stayed at a family friend's house for 3 weeks but then it was time to move. Moved into a room in a shared house and eventually into a flat and now into a house.
Things take time, take one step at a time and don't worry about the rest.
My first job in the UK was in a factory, it took me some time to get into customer service as I was branded as a factory worker as that was my first job. I have recently (2 years ago) moved into IT through internal applications and I am now working as a business analyst.
As you can see, things can be achieved, but you have to break it down into processable chunks.
For what you mentioned your first priority is leaving alone so:
1 - Get a job anywhere! - Use agencies, local businesses, fastfood chains.
Keep a steady income from your workplace and move out.
2 - Move out! - No this is a tricky one. You want to go into IT so you will need to use most of your disposable income in training/certification for you to achieve this. Budget, budget, budget. Check how much you can safely pay each month for acommodation + expenses. Ensure you can always safe at least 10% of your income for a "rainy day" fund and still have some disposable income to use for the courses.
3 - Set yourself goals! - Set a goal of how long until you sign up for a MCSA or Comptia certification course. Set a goal for what your salary needs to be to sustain your lifestyle + further certificates (which are usually pricier than the entry level ones).
4 - apply for support jobs, apply for anything that has any sort of IT component in the title or specification. Use all the interviews as training sources so that when the job you REALLY want shows up, you know how to behave.
5 - (possibly should be number 2) Find a hobby! If you struggle with depression being alone might not be the best if all you do everyday is work. Find a hobby that makes you stretch. This can be anything from gaming (TCG like magic the gathering are great for this) or indie game development and anything in-between.
That is my 2c piece of advice regarding your job position. Regarding the depression and personal problems, please seek professional help. All of this means nothing if you are not happy nor enjoy life.
Hello and welcome to the workplace!
I have been in your place before (sort of).
When I moved to the UK I did so alone, I stayed at a family friend's house for 3 weeks but then it was time to move. Moved into a room in a shared house and eventually into a flat and now into a house.
Things take time, take one step at a time and don't worry about the rest.
My first job in the UK was in a factory, it took me some time to get into customer service as I was branded as a factory worker as that was my first job. I have recently (2 years ago) moved into IT through internal applications and I am now working as a business analyst.
As you can see, things can be achieved, but you have to break it down into processable chunks.
For what you mentioned your first priority is leaving alone so:
1 - Get a job anywhere! - Use agencies, local businesses, fastfood chains.
Keep a steady income from your workplace and move out.
2 - Move out! - No this is a tricky one. You want to go into IT so you will need to use most of your disposable income in training/certification for you to achieve this. Budget, budget, budget. Check how much you can safely pay each month for acommodation + expenses. Ensure you can always safe at least 10% of your income for a "rainy day" fund and still have some disposable income to use for the courses.
3 - Set yourself goals! - Set a goal of how long until you sign up for a MCSA or Comptia certification course. Set a goal for what your salary needs to be to sustain your lifestyle + further certificates (which are usually pricier than the entry level ones).
4 - apply for support jobs, apply for anything that has any sort of IT component in the title or specification. Use all the interviews as training sources so that when the job you REALLY want shows up, you know how to behave.
5 - (possibly should be number 2) Find a hobby! If you struggle with depression being alone might not be the best if all you do everyday is work. Find a hobby that makes you stretch. This can be anything from gaming (TCG like magic the gathering are great for this) or indie game development and anything in-between.
That is my 2c piece of advice regarding your job position. Regarding the depression and personal problems, please seek professional help. All of this means nothing if you are not happy nor enjoy life.
answered 3 hours ago
fireshark519fireshark519
898112
898112
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
Thank you, your 2c are way more worth than that for me! Your story really motivates me and it becomes clearer for me, what steps I have to take. My first step therefor is taking any job and an appartment. Then I have much less stress but time for me. And from there on build up step by step. Thank you, really appreciate that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
@Mark just remember life is not a lone walk. Surround yourself of people you love, friends, family, whatever they may be. Religion can be a good comforter as well. I have been in the UK now for 7 years and went from earning 12.000 a year to 41.000 a year. You get out of life as much as you put in, but there will be stumbling blocks on the way. Always have the attitude that, other than death, any problem has a solution. But there is no need wasting your time worrying about the problem, the solution is what matters.
– fireshark519
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
Thank you very much! Actually I currently prefer being alone or selecting a few friends as I had only fake friends over the past years even tho I only had like 1-2 at the same time. Thank you!
– Mark
2 hours ago
add a comment |
Mark is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Mark is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Mark is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
Mark is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.
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1
I would also add that you write in English (maybe even speak a bit?) that is an advantage you have that many people do not!
– ChrisR
2 hours ago
2
"And how can I overcome having low self confidence?" @Mark, nowadays there are specific, actual, methods and technologies to overcome low self-confidence. Over the last 50 years or so this has actually been worked-out. Simply google "Books on overcoming low self-confidence". I urge you to pick say 7 of such books and seriously study them. It's easy to find ........ nerdycreator.com/bookclub/top-10-self-esteem-books Enjoy! You are a couple of books study away from the solution.
– Fattie
2 hours ago
@ChrisR thank you, I didn't even think about that!
– Mark
2 hours ago
@Fattie thank you for the recommendation, I will look into it! I already grew a lot in the last year because of my job where I have contact with customers day-to-day. But I know that there is room for improvement!
– Mark
2 hours ago
1
For 10 euros you can change your life .. amazon.com/Days-Self-Esteem-David-M-D-Burns/dp/0688094554 You have to do the work though! Cheers
– Fattie
2 hours ago