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Home > Ask A Career Coach > Applying for positions for work I did several years ago

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Applying for positions for work I did several years ago

Holli R. on June 30, 2015

Job Search

I have seen various training positions and have experience as a trainer several years ago.  I had since had positions providing communications and programmatic support for non-profit organizations.  I'm wondering if it would be beneficial to apply for training positions that may be of interest to me.  One is within a State agency and I'm reachable on a list for a test I took in 2013.  Or would it look to much like I'm zig zagging at this point?




4 Comments

Image of Judy G.

Judy G.

Jul 1, 2015

Hi Holli,
I'm looking for work and don't necessarily want the high-stress kind of
position I had at my last job.  I've been applying for things that might appear
beneath my skill level and am concerned, like you, that it might look like
backtracking.  I've gotten a bunch of responses saying I'm overqualified so am
afraid I might not even get interviews.  I guess companies don't realize we
might want to change career directions for certain reasons.  In my case it's not about
the $$ anymore.  I just want a nice little job that doesn't stress me out!  Let
us know how things go.


Image of Holli R.

Holli R.

Jul 2, 2015

IIt'sIt's not a lower level job, but a different functions.  It's for a call center trainer.  I have done nonprofit communications more recently.  The company, Xerox, seems to be having a resurgence In our area. I have to really think about it.


Image of Margot Larson

Margot Larson

Jul 3, 2015

Career Coach Comment:

Holli,

What's to think about?  If the company and the topic of training appeals to you, go for it.

Whether or not you get the interview has to do with your approach and presentation.  Your resume should clearly outline your matching skill set and your competencies to do the job. Your cover letter or telephone conversation, should demonstrate you spirit, enthusiasm and how you will be a good fit and worth getting to know as a candidate.

Hopefully, you can find a good description of what they are looking for and the competencies that the organizations seeks in their employees. You are selling yourself. Tailor your current resume and your cover letter to the job you are applying for.  Don't list everything you've ever done.

 Do some homework and some research first. It might be helpful to network in order to speak to someone who works there who could give you some good insider information. 

Margot


Image of Julie Jansen

Julie Jansen

Jul 4, 2015

Career Coach Comment:

Hi Holli, 

I echo Margot's advice. In this job market and today's world, you should feel comfortable applying for any job that you want to as long as you tailor your documents and verbal presentation as closely as possible to the specific job. 

And it's important to be able to explain clearly and in a compelling way why you intend to make this transition as well as how your experience and competencies will benefit the prospective employer. 

Good luck! 

Julie


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