The Wilderness Diaries, Episode 4: Negapositivity

My brother keeps telling me to take the positive out of the negative: my former employer was simply not meant to be, and my health is in great shape, which is what matters most.

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I agree, but I often object. Perhaps I am a strange creature, but I need to work to stay healthy. That is how I am wired.

So, let us stay positive. I was determined to get back on my feet as soon as possible. No time off, whatever those around me suggested. “Straight back in” became my daily motto.

Within two weeks of the redundancy, I sent out CV 1.0. Zero answers. Doubts began to settle in. Again.

Remain positive, I told myself. Could it be the CV? With the help of a trusted ex-colleague, now a recruiter, I revamped it. CV 2.0 went out and, bingo: two requests for a call within four weeks. High positivity.

The famous corporate social network platform is full of daily positive quotes from guys who know exactly how to close a deal. And if you cannot, you are just a muppet.

Then I learnt something new. These calls are known as screenings. They check your credentials and salary expectations, and nothing more. “I will pass your CV to the hiring manager.”

I refreshed my inbox. Then refreshed it again. Then came a deafening silence. Remain positive. I followed up a few days later. No reply.

Eventually, a friendly HR officer called. “I am sorry for the delay. The hiring manager has decided not to pursue your application, as other candidates are better aligned with the role.” Fair enough.

Then came the never-ending PR exercise, which still annoys me to this day: “I will keep your CV in mind. Is that fine with you?” Six months on, I am still waiting for one of those calls.

Worse, a few weeks afterwards I spotted a similar role, more closely aligned with my skills, on an online financial recruitment site and contacted the same person. He ghosted me.

Everyone tells me not to worry, that something will turn up soon. Nothing has.

I have been approved for Jobseeker’s Allowance. My compulsory meeting is scheduled for the following week. 9.00 am sharp, I am told.

Click here for Episode 1. 

Click here for Episode 2. 

Click here for Episode 3. 

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