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Thanks so much for this Sarah and Emily. From my recent run at job hunting, the knocks to self-esteem were a killer, as well as realising just how many skilled applicants were trying for the same role. (I very luckily, and it was just luck, got a permanent part-time role just before the pandemic. Even so, I don't earn enough to support myself and am reliant on my partner)

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♥️♥️ it's so hard out there

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Good luck Sarah. It’s a hellish system which has it’s roots in the economic upheavals of the 1980’s. Jacinda instituted policies which tried to address inequity but was destroyed in the process. I hope for a better future for you and your family.

My own experiences in the 1990’s mirror your own and I feel your pain. All I have to offer is my best wishes. Don’t give up the fight.

Ake ake ake.

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Can relate! I quit the only permanent job I'd ever had, at that point after a decade in the industry, because of workplace bullying. I was then unemployed for over 2 years, applying and being knocked back for multiple roles, before I was recommended by a friend to a mutual acquaintance for a contract gig. Four years later those series of contracts lead to a permanent (part-time) offer, but I got lucky. That's all it is, luck.

One trick I learned when applying for public service jobs was to always call the

Contact officer and ask if there was someone was acting in the position. Their response usually told me whether I should bother applying or not!

Best of luck with the job search, Sarah. I hope the stars align for you soon.

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I remember back whe I was applying for teaching roles that half the ads in the Ed Gazette had a phrase in them to advise that the role was already filled, but that they still had to advertise the role... Something like "No actual vacancy" which made life a little easier. More employees need to adopt this appriach

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Such a fantastic piece, and heartbreaking. Thank you so much for inviting Sarah to write this. I wish this reality was much more widely shared and understood. And then fixed.

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Very saddened to read this. So dispiriting to be declined employment when you have so many skills and experience.

The farce of applying for jobs in the Public Service when the position is already filled, is despicable and cruel.

All the very best.

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