Why no one will respond to your plea for work

Pleading for work can be off-putting to your potential customer or boss. It might sound good in your head, but it really isn’t. And oversharing about how desperate you are leaves you open to being exploited.

When you are given an opportunity, don’t waste it by oversharing and trying to make your audience feel sorry for you. Rather seize the opportunity to promote your brand (i.e. You) in the most positive and professional way possible.

If you can clearly state what you are selling, then your chances of success are greater.

If what you are saying is so confusing that your customers’ eyes glaze over, you have lost the opportunity to make a good first impression.

I’ve taken two real-life examples from the internet to show you how to write the same content in a more professional way. I’ve tweaked them for privacy and made some assumptions.

“I’m desperately looking for a Monday to Friday position either in Retail or Administration. I am currently employed but am working Saturdays which is causing problems for me due to personal reasons”

What’s wrong with this request:

“I help busy executives manage their day and improve overall productivity. My administration skills include …”

“My current position has taught me to … [add how the current role has prepared her for the admin role even if she is doing something completely different]”

“My name is Joe Soap, after being recently retrenched from my previous company, I’m eagerly looking for my new career challenge. I have 7 years of experience in the grocery and retail sector. My skills are within managment and sales training, but I will take whatever you have as I’m desperate for a job. I’m currently in the Buffalo New York area with my wife and four children but I am available to relocate. Hoping for your assistance.”

“I help grocery retailers increase revenue through specialized sales training …”

“I am available to work throughout North America”

I would encourage you to write down your sales pitch, and then critique it. If you need help, share it with a friend and watch this video for further insights:

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