Did I Waste 4 Years In College And $30,000 To Get A Receptionist Job?

I have a few suggestions.



First, you have to think of yourself differently. You obviously have charm and charisma and you're great with people. But you're not "just" a receptionist. You might be doing that right now, but not for much longer. I strongly encourage you to be kind to yourself and start thinking of yourself the way you would like others to see you. You can be bright, cheerful (as required by your current temporary position) confident and ambitious all at the same time.



Second, you need to think about what kind of career you want. Nobody else can tell you that. Interviewers are looking for people who have drive, a strong sense of identity, and a good fit for their company. Once you know what you want to do, you'll be able to breeze through any interview given your natural charm. Even if the position isn't quite the right one, they will remember you and may call you back if a better fit comes up (this happened to my wife).



Third, target entry-level positions in companies where there's potential for upward movement or that will help you develop skills that are in demand. This is where you need to build your own value in the eyes of other potential employers. If you can do this in your present job, all the better. Does your present employer offer to pay for any courses?



Finally, get networking. Start meeting people socially who can open doors for you. I can't stress this one enough. Socializing might be a pain (as it is for me) but it pays off in spades. Most of the best jobs are never advertised. Take a night course in a field you want to work in and talk to your fellow students. Get a part-time evening job or do some volunteering.



Good luck!

DMSI I was tthinking of supermarket chains and fast food chains like Mc Donalds.

I have a very similar story. I graduated with a degree in History in 2005 and started working at a supermarket deli to pay off some of my debt (and because there were no other jobs available in my area.) I kept looking for a job while working at the deli and then the economy fell apart. I am currently in grad school studying library and information science. Hopefully it will pay off and not turn out to be a boondoggle.



AlmostAristotle: Thats not a bad idea about becoming a manager but it wouldnt work, at least not in my store. They are no longer accepting applications to become managers. Then again, our company is doing poorly, so maybe a better company would still offer that opportunity.

Ok I have a suggestion, being from UK this may be of no use to you, but I'd like to try to help.

Could you get a job at a supermarket, if neccessary stacking shelves. Then using your superior intelligence, qualifications, maturity and lack of ties, rapidly work your way up to Manager. Work for one year successfuly as manager, and you have vital employment experience proving that you have work skills, that include supervision, people skills, organisation, reliability, initiative, and responsibility.

I mention this because I know that here in UK some supermarket chains have 'fast track' programmes for graduates.

This is also true of some fast food outlets, to which you could apply the same plan.

Having held or holding the post of manager, will carry much more clout when applying for more desirable jobs than that asociated with receptionist.

I realise that this would take maybe another couple of years, but. With the world economy as it is, no one is going to take a chance on a receptionist for a job with responsibility.

As far as the job hierachy ladder is concerned, if taking a step down gives you the chance to prove yourself, not too far down the road, and to then put yourself in a much stronger position in the job market, swallow your pride and stack shelves, or flip burgers.

As I said at the begining this may not be possible for you, if not I'm sorry to waste your time.

Good luck in the future, I hope you find something better soon.

Aristotle.