Ryan Raymor, Naples
Help wanted
I recently returned to Southwest Florida after 11 years of U.S. naval service.
Since Dec 16 my wife and I have been struggling to find work, even though we both have college degrees and good resumes. We see job listings daily for the work we are interested in, but rarely, if ever, do we get call-backs. We've even applied at all the big box stores without replies.
I've had to take a job as a sign holder on U.S. 41 just to get an income started here.
What happened to veteran's preference? While transitioning from active duty, the instructors praise how much employers are looking for veterans all over the United States. My family and I have not seen that; we're seeing the "good ole boy" routine in Southwest Florida. We've even been told by a veteran agency that if you don't know someone or aren't a relative of someone in these companies, they won't hire you.
Is today's military not enough of a reference for employers? How are we supposed to support our family of five, while I hold a sign for nine hours a week at $10 an hour?
We are continually seeking work and would like to hear some feedback.
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Comments » 5
suzaunt writes:
Have you tried substitute school teacher or bus driver? It's a foot in the door if you like kids. Unfortunately, there are many employers who have downsized over the past few years.
pmz writes:
The conservatives who post here would probably say that you are not trying hard enough. That there are plenty of jobs for those willing to work.
They would also say that the country should not be helping you as your search continues. Keeping you in food and medicine and housing.
I say thank you for your service, and I'm disappointed that your transition hasn't been much, much better.
I'm confident that the country is doing everything that it can to make sure that we are heading as fast as possible from the shrinking job market that business brought on to us by sending careers off shore in exchange for executive bonuses. Unfortunately, the country did not create the situation that is so troublesome for you and therefore cannot fix it except incrementally. But there are promising signs on the horizon, and I hope that what we can do for you will sustain the lives that you and your wife have started until better times arrive.
HowAboutThat writes:
What is your college degree in? Are you limiting your job hunting to the Naples area. Unfortunately, you probably have to look in other cities or states to get a job. You should also file applications to state and federal government positions. And, if necessary, you and/or your wife should consider going back to school to get an advanced degree or a professional degree. Good luck in your job hunting.
straighttalkinnaples writes:
Ryan,
SW Florida is a very tough job market, but I'm telling you nothing you don't already know.
Any chance you could detach yourself from the area and head to the Northern Virginia/DC area for employment? You'll probably be able to use your military background along with any security clearances to your advantage in hiring in this area.
Don't be fearful of relocating to where the military friendly jobs are located, even if it requires temporary separation from family.
Lastly, use the military specific job expos to your advantage. See several Florida job fairs in the next two weeks for ex-military at Military.com-NCOA Career Expo .
Good Luck
VERA writes:
ALOT OF EMPLOYERS ARE POSTING ON CRAIGS LIST AS IT IS FREE, INCLUDING THE OPENING FOR P/T EXPERIENCED FISHING DEPT HELP ON MARCO ISLAND, SAT & SUN AT THE SUNSHINE ACE HARDWARE. THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK
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