On Second Chances | Tips on Jobhunting

"When God closes a door, He opens a window."

This saying, as cliche as it may sound, is undoubtedly true. Not so long ago, I have poured my heart out and shared my heartbreaking experience over a job that I lost here. I've also shared how many rejections I have received from numerous (insane) jobs I have applied for. Yet, despite all those setbacks, I moved on and decided to do what I do best - to not lose faith, to not give up and to just try again.

During the moments that I doubted myself, I was lucky to be surrounded by people who cared and believed in me. Some, offered words of encouragement, while some a particular person gave me the exact help that I really need. This person, who I'd like to call Bic looked at my resume and identified everything that is causing my dilemma. Through her wonderful [and very very detailed] advice, I was able to revise my resume competitively. The moment I uploaded it on multiple job search apps here in Australia, and bam! The calls [from different companies] started coming in. It was unbelievable.

I never realized that a simple step, like editing your resume is key in getting a job. Now that I am competing in a foreign land, I was advised (by Bic) that I should market myself if not better, but at par with the competition. As I journey into this starting [on a new job], let me share with you some of my learnings and insights from these experiences.

1. When in Doubt, Pray

Especially in another country, finding a job will never be easy. While some may have a better experience, most of the people [Filipinos] I have met here struggled in job hunting. I found myself feeling really sad from all the rejections I have been receiving left and right. I almost came to that point where I doubted myself and my skills. Yet, I never stopped praying and asking the Lord for guidance. Believe it or not, He will provide when you least expect it.

2. Be Willing To Start Over Again

Whatever experience you have in the Philippines, be prepared to start your career all over again. Whether you are a bank manager, or a licensed doctor, nurse or whatever - when you get here, you need to humble yourself down and be willing to start in entry level, again. While there are some [especially to those in the IT industry] that could find a job that matches their current level, most migrants here usually start from square one. Bottomline, wag kang choosy. I have met migrants here who held senior positions in their hometown yet started out as waitresses, kitchen helpers, baristas, grocery baggers here in Australia. The important thing is, you gain local experience that could help you find a job that you really want.

3. Be Competitive

Your resume must speak for yourself. This was the advice that my friend, gave to me. So if you are aiming for a job here [in Australia or in another country] make sure to present the resume that showcases ALL your talents and skills. Whatever awards, recognition, innovative solutions you gave to your company - write it all down. See yourself. Here, people start working as early as they can. Anybody who is 18 and above has either worked in fast food chains and offices while studying in Uni. Almost everyone has work experience that they can write on their resumes. So do the same for yourself. Be competitive. Show your potential employers that you have what it takes.

4. Know the Limitations of Your Visa

Later on, I have realized that probably one of the reasons why I was being rejected left and right was the fact that I hold a 457 Working Visa. While my visa basically allows me to work here in Australia, I also had to indicate that my visa does not require sponsorship and is valid for X amount of years. I also applied for roles that said "contract" / "casual" for it is a role that can be ceased or continued depending on the employer or the situation. When I started applying for "casual" roles with my polished resume, the more positive response I got from potential employers.

PS: Applying for "casual" positions may be an easier way to find a job here. It may not guarantee a permanent role but it will give you the experience you need. And who knows, you might end up liking your job in the long run.

5. Give Your Best Shot

While waking up to a rejection email every day may be heartbreaking, do not let it stop you from being stronger. As you go on day by day, sending your resume to hundreds of potential employers, always bear in mind to give it your best shot. Re-check your resumes, edit your cover letters, see what you can do to better yourself. When you got that phone call, be confident and articulate. Show enthusiasm. Talk sincerely. Here in Australia, that phone call is your FIRST INTERVIEW. And when you do get scheduled for a face to face interview, do a little research on the company to back you up. Be honest and truthful, be sincere. Just give your best shot. 

While I am still fairly new in this new role (I'm a customer service representative for a healthcare company here in Australia), I plan to do my best to be good in this job. I am just beyond grateful to land in a company that invests in training their people. With my intention to perform well and do good, I really pray that I won't lose this, this time.

Anyways, I hope you find this post very insightful. I still have a lot of stories to share but I am currently struggling with time. But I really hope I get to post more soon! 

xx, The Mommy Roves