Lack of I.T. Work

[futsysmids]

I am an all round computer engineer of 15+ years experience, but since leaving ICM in December 2004, I have had major difficulty attaining new employment.

Is it my age (39), am I over experienced or not experienced in the right areas or am I asking for too much money (+17k) ???

I have had a few bits and drabs of work, a couple of short contracts, a couple of websites to write and a few pc's to build, but besides that, nothing.

My partner has just secured a job in Eastbourne, but when you live in the Midlands and you are applying for jobs down south, companies do not seem to even bother calling you for an interview because of where you live.

And PC Doctor - don't even mention them!!!

[stoo_pid]

Can't advise about IT jobs I'm afraid but if you're applying for jobs down south explain in your application letter that you are currently in the process of relocating to Eastbourne & include your partner's address.

[WoWo]

I think I had a similar problem when I was living in Dover and applying for jobs in London. I was in the process of moving but it seemed unless you were actually living in London they didn't want to know.

I think the best thing is just don't tell them where you live at the moment or give the address you will be moving too.

It depends on what your experience is and also could have an effect but what you're asking for money wise seems not to be the problem. i.e. �17 isn't a great deal

[OBonio]

Firstly 17k is really quite low. I know it sounds silly, but with that sort of experience, expecting only 17k really doesn't say a lot about what you think you're worth.

Secondly, it might be worth selling your soul to the devil and registering yourself with some IT agencies and looking on IT job sites (http://www.reed.co.uk is good). The agencies really are the scum of the earth and will give you the run around 99% of the time. That said, they did get me my last 2 jobs having been made redundant twice last year. They can also give you advice on how your CV should look etc etc.

[Maggie2807]

Hi Despondent IT Guy!

I agree with OBonio + U really need (inspite of the hurdles you face) to sell yourself with a positive attitude and defo put your min salary (for your area of expertise higher) Total.jobs.com (Very good) find websites for your line of work & even though it costs to travel get your face known in the door of agencies, not just post CV.  Be flexible a little i.e: Fixed term contract and network when you are actually based in new home.

Good Luck & Chin up :-)

[Mistopheles]

My partner had a similar problem, and ended up setting up his own business. He contacted some schools and offered to be a part time IT technician for them. He fixes their computers, orders and installs their software / networks etc. He sets his own hours and his own wages. He has been doing this for a few years now, and loves it - and the schools fight over him! He makes about 15K, but that's for less than 25 hours a week.

Not sure if this is anything like what you want to do, but just making the point that maybe a bit of creative thinking is needed! Good luck.