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I'm 21 and still don't have any genuine work experience which is making finding a job extremely difficult. I had a job a long time ago but the place closed down. It was the only place I was comfotable with when dealing with the public. Now I am a nervous wreck that avoids going to interviews.
I do some temp work but I seriously need a steady part-time job. I am not qualfied to do anything but their must be something I can do, right?
I am trying to put on my big- girl undies but don't know what is wrong with me. I think i may need help but don't know where to get it.
Location: East of Seattle since 1992, 615' Elevation, Zone 8b - originally from SF Bay Area
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What kind of job did you have before?
See if the local library has "Page" jobs open. They do things like putting books back on the shelves, so very little public contact, and are almost always part time. Here they are part time but with benefits and pay about $15.hour. For interviewing experience is the the only way to get used to them enough to help your nerves. Apply for any jobs you can and force yourself to do the interviews. If you know anyone that is or has a friend that is a hiring manager, you can ask them to do some mock interviews with you so you become more comfortable. It doesn't help as much if you know the person.
I am a nervous wreck that avoids going to interviews.
I think i may need help but don't know where to get it.
I don't mean to sound nasty or harsh but most mentally healthy people don't become nervous wrecks at job interviews. A little nervous maybe, but not so nervous that it actually prevents you from going.
I don't mean to sound nasty or harsh but most mentally healthy people don't become nervous wrecks at job interviews. A little nervous maybe, but not so nervous that it actually prevents you from going.
Perhaps you should talk to your doctor?
I don't think I have a doctor or family doctor..I stopped going at around age 11 or 12 I think. but i understand what your saying i am looking at a place i can go to right now.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hemlock140
What kind of job did you have before?
See if the local library has "Page" jobs open. They do things like putting books back on the shelves, so very little public contact, and are almost always part time. Here they are part time but with benefits and pay about $15.hour. For interviewing experience is the the only way to get used to them enough to help your nerves. Apply for any jobs you can and force yourself to do the interviews. If you know anyone that is or has a friend that is a hiring manager, you can ask them to do some mock interviews with you so you become more comfortable. It doesn't help as much if you know the person.
It was a small corner store that my cousin rented out to sell candy she bought with food stamps I think. It closed down quickly though. I didn't get paid much, the cash register didn't work correctly, and wasn't alot of customers but I enjoyed the quitness and candy. I also enjoy the temp work I do sometimes at a warehouse, their wasn't alot of people there and the work was mind numbingly boring but it allowed my mind to wander.
Y'know I actually missed going to the library so I am going to check that out thanks. er...well I see on the job board is the only jobs that are aviable are something I am not qualifed for but I will ask the one near my house.
I am so ashamed that I am the only member in the family with problems like this. Every one of my sisters is so calm and cool talking on the phone. And they managed to get any job they want but I was aways the last one for everything. I don't know why interviews terrify me nor when it grew to become this bad. My father just tells me that I need to look these "white people" in the eye and not let them see you squirm because they wan't you to fail but I always end up feeling so inferior and intimidated.
I was a nervious wreck at my first couple interviews, then I learned to stay calm and got accused of being unenthusiastic so you really can't win at interview when a bunch of HR hacks are psychoanalyzing you.
I wish I had better advice but I really can't stand interviews either. It is like a cross between a psychology session with a really dopey psychologist and a police interrogation.
I am naturally a more nervous/anxious person than your Average Joe, so I can feel your pain regarding the interview process. I hate, hate, HATE talking about myself and my accomplishments. What I do to alleviate some of this anxiety is take control of the situation. What I mean is that I take charge in the interview. I let them ask me a few questions, and then I fire back a few follow up questions to them. This helps to take the focus and pressure completely off of me. Also, try to remain as upbeat and friendly as possible. Maybe tell a little joke to relieve some of the pressure. The hardest interviews are when you have a tough crowd, and no one even cracks a smile at your attempt at humor. For the most part, though, people will respond in a positive manner.
If you can't shake this, then look up therapists in your area. I've seen ads here for help with fear of public speaking, and it sounds like this would fall under that same umbrella as far as getting help. Find a community clinic that charges based on income.
It's something you can unlearn (the fear) but it's possible you may need some assistance.
I am so ashamed that I am the only member in the family with problems like this. Every one of my sisters is so calm and cool talking on the phone. And they managed to get any job they want but I was aways the last one for everything. I don't know why interviews terrify me nor when it grew to become this bad. My father just tells me that I need to look these "white people" in the eye and not let them see you squirm because they wan't you to fail but I always end up feeling so inferior and intimidated.
Hopefully, I can shake this soon.
First of all you shouldn't feel ashamed. Practice interviewing with family and friends. And most definitely see a therapist.
You just aren't experienced dealing with the public and thinking quickly on your feet. Start just talking to people in general.
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