Where The Jobs At??

My friends and I often have this conversation! It seems like there are so many jobs listed but either we get a million "We regret to inform you" or they just aren't paying enough to live! Lately, I’ve been filling out applications like crazy, well really I've been applying for jobs in Memphis since January of 2016. I absolutely hate applying for jobs now, it's just draining.

When you go to school for 16+ years, then Graduate to the reality that adulthood isn’t what you had wished, things can be a little difficult to understand and deal with. Like why did I go to college again?? Was it to not work in my field?? Hold multiple jobs to make an acceptable salary?? It has been three years since I've graduated with my Bachelors; it’s still just as difficult as it was before. The crazy part is, I feel like I need more schooling to aid me in the process of being a grownup! (Crazy right?!) Well, that and the fact that I feel incomplete without my Masters.
​
This job hunt has sent me on a journey I never saw myself on. I even went to a career fair, which is out of my lane. I can be bashful and don’t really like interviews with hundreds of people around. Although uncomfortable, I quickly found out that the process isn't as bad as I had imagined. They were quick and efficient! This reminded me that we have to step out of our comfort zone in order to grow and prosper in life.

But, I'm not blogging about my experience at the career fair. I wanted to share some of the career fairs I’ve been sent by friends, family, and those I've stumbled upon myself.  Also, I wanted to give some tips I've found helpful for myself, some positivity, and support.

​                                                     Career Fairs
​
Tuesday August 16, 2016 (IKEA)
Southwest Tennessee Community College-Macon Campus
5983 Macon Cove, Memphis, TN 38134
Farris Auditorium
​6:00PM-7:00PM

​
Wednesday August 16, 2016 (IKEA)
Southwest Tennessee Community College- Union Campus
737 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
Nursing Building Auditorium
6:00PM-7:00PM

Tuesday, August 16,2016 (Thompson Industrial Services)
Goodwill Job Center
3830 Austin Peay Memphis, TN 38128
9:00AM-1:00PM

Wednesday, August 17, 2016 (Randstad Staffing- Brother Job Fair)
Singleton Community Center
7266 3rd Rd Bartlett, TN 38135
9:30AM-12:00PM

Thursday, August 18, 2016 (Kelloggs)
Hyatt Place Memphis
​7905 Giacosa Pl Memphis, TN 38133
​9:00AM-4:00PM

Friday, August 19, 2016 (Multiple Employers)
Hilton Memphis
​939 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38120
​2:00PM-6:00PM

Sunday, August 21, 2016 (Multiple Employers)
New Direction Christian Church
6120 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38115
11:00AM- 1:00PM

Saturday, August 27,2016 (Math Made Simple-Teacher and Tutors)
Math Made Simple, ETC
7189 Stage Rd, Memphis, TN 38133
9:00AM-3:00PM

​Tuesday, September 13, 2016 (Multiple Employers)
Memphis Botanic Gardens
750 Cherry Road, Memphis, TN 38117
10:00AM-3:00PM

                                                            TIPS!!!

These tips are for those of us who are continuously just applying for jobs

Change Scenery
Applying for jobs can drive you nuts!!!  It’s good to leave the house and find new places to fill out applications.

Take Breaks
Take breaks from the computer. After so long I feel you become burned out and build up a little aggression, when things seem to be going nowhere.

​Treat Yourself
It doesn't have to be expensive, we are looking for a job! It can be your favorite snack, Starbucks, a new nail polish, a new book, or anything else that could put a smile on your face!
​
Release Frustration
​SCREAM!!!! You have to release pent up energy in a positive way! Sometimes screaming can help or working out! Hit a punching bag or the air! Just please don't swing on an actual live person!! Going to jail isn't what I want for you!

Pray/Meditation
This has been instrumental in this process for me!! I try to meditate first thing in the morning for 15 minutes. I read over my devotion, pray, and then listen to Gospel. I often go over 15 minutes, 15 is just my minimum.

​Accept Help
​If you're like me, you like to handle everything on your own. STOP! It's healthy to allow people to do things for you! If someone wants to look over your resume, connect you with some people, give you advice, or even treat you, please allow them. I fight it all the time but I eventually give in. You can't fight every battle alone and sometimes others can have what is necessary for your win.
 
Now for those of us that are attending career fairs

Bring Resume
Try to find an inexpensive portfolio, report cover, or a Folder with pockets. Walgreens has the basics for only a couple of dollars, in the stationary aisle. Even if you aren’t able to get any of these particular items still bring a paper copy of your resume. Staple it even.

Business Professional or Business Casual
Don’t come to the career fair with Jordans and Sweats on. It shows just how serious you are about finding a job, which isn’t serious at all. I saw people at a career fair I went to dressed like I stated above and I just couldn’t understand.

Groom Yourself
Before attending, please be sure you comb your hair or clean up facial hair. Good personal hygiene is a must. Not saying that those reading don't know how to take care of themselves but I saw some weird things at the recent career fair I went to.  I'm just putting it out there.

Cover Tattoos
This is coming from someone who has 6 tattoos but you would never know!

Be Professional/Courteous
You never know who exactly you’ll be talking to and these are open interviews. First impression is a lasting one!
 
​Also, I understand some people don’t have the funds to buy new clothes, print off resumes, or attain a resume holder. In the event this is you, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll do all I can to try and assist you in getting all items you need! 
 
Please Stay encouraged!!! I know life can seem impossible to get through sometimes. Every day you have breath in your body is an opportunity for you fight! It has been very trying for me and I have my bad days. Fortunately, I’m not the type to allow myself to stay down long. I have an amazing support system, as well! I pray that you all gain the support and love you need to fight through life.  

Be sure to Check out Choose901, The Tristate Defender, and LeadershipMemphis. org . Jobs fairs and job listings are always listed on these sites.
 
I'll be adding more information as I come across it!
Good Hunting!!!