PeachesG

Anyone else had real trouble finding secretarial or admin work on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane. I am beginning to think it is me - (too old 45! or too English!) Have sent off dozens of applications, occasionally get an interview, but nothing on from that. I am beginning to think that we'll only ever have one income over here - husband found work after about 4 months of applications. One job I applied for in Brisbane apparently had over 700 applications! Feeling quite disheartened at the mo. Any ideas/advice?

suebrennan

Hi Peaches

No advice I am afraid as I am pretty much in the same boat. I have been here almost 5 months and have made a complete meal out of finding a job. I have done quite a bit of temporary - most of it complete crap and feel very disheartened. Really did not do my homework and concentrated on selling my flat and getting my visa - big mistake but---. All I can say is keep plodding!

Sending you some karma.

Sue

sassie

Have you thought about just doing some temp work for now, sometimes they can become something more permanent.

I had a two week temping assignment at a legal office, and they offered me a permanent job. I didn't take it, as I really didn't want to do legal full time, having done it for 8 years in the UK. I know a few people though who have secured a full time job from temping assignments.

Just a thought.

Good luck

PeachesG

Thanks Sue. I will keep trying. It just gets very frustrating, as I am sure you know! A friend of mine is a hairdresser and she has not been able to find a proper job either and I thought hairdressers were really needed.

PeachesG

Hi Sassie

Yes, I do a bit of temporary work sometimes, but it is very occasional and not something that gives us much security (or income). I would jump at a temporary job that turned permanent, but no such luck!!

Thanks for your thoughts.

TeresaG

I can't offer any advice but just wanted to wish you luck and hope you find something soon.

PeachesG

Thanks TeresaG.

JohnandMichelle

I struggled for a while as well, was worried it was my age, nationality, etc. I have years of legal experience, but decided I wanted a change so applied for all sorts of other admin jobs without any luck. I even took my DofB off my CV because apparently you're not obliged to put it on... I also only wanted school hours, so was only answering part-time ads. In the end I was offered two jobs at once including the one I'm in now (solicitors' office in Burleigh Heads [I know, but beggars can't be choosers and I do love it ] So stick in there, Peaches. Your years of experience will be an advantage to you in the end. Best of luck. Michelle x

Sue from Manchester

Have you tried targetting the area you are particularly interested in? e.g., I knew I wanted to work in a University so kept looking at the university job sites. As a previous reply said, I think it would be really good if you did some temping because they really value Australian experience here (I know, I know ) and contacts really matter. Talk to neighbours, ask around, don't be shy. Once you have proved yourself in a job you're away so keep at it!