SC1 - Demonstrated ability to update blog in a timely manner

The process of looking for a job is a full time job in itself. It is almost impossible to find the time to find one if you already have a job. Lucky for me I don't currently have one.

I've addressed selection criteria after selection criteria and written cover letter after cover letter. Well maybe about four or five in actual fact but because addressing selection criteria can sometimes take an entire day it feels like I've addressed millions of them. And why do they all have to be so ridiculously stupid? "Demonstrated ability to multi-task in a deadline driven environment while remaining calm under pressure". Of course you can't write something like "I have been a mother for 15 years and multi-tasking is my second name. I am able to successfuly use the bathroom while taking a call and peeling a banana for my toddler son whose deadlines are non-negotiable. I have however, well developed negotiating skills when dealing with more reasonable and mature minded people such as my husband and 15 year old daughter who have learned that patience always pays off. I am able to calmly explain to them that requests from the Managing Director take priority because he is easily able to make life unbearable for the rest of the team if his needs are not met".

No, one must sell oneself when addressing selection criteria and although I would consider the above example to be perfect, a potential money paying employer doesn't want to hear it. They want to know that you're familiar with job hunting buzz words like "team player", "implement", "Executive decision making skills", "effective communication skills", "exceeding sales expectations". Things that at the end of the day just show that you know how to use buzz words but don't say that you in any way can do the job.

So obviously I've managed to address some selection criterias reasonably well in the past week because I've been out of a job only one week and already had two very positive interviews. While I need the money I kind of wish it had been a little harder. Some more time to dwell on my own much needed mind rest would have been nice.

Never mind, there are plenty of people looking for jobs and I should just be grateful. But all those Gen Y'ers out there looking to change careers so frequently are turning the tides with employers. They're looking now for people who want to commit and are offering great working incentives to keep them. Lucky for me I guess.

Will keep you all posted on my progress