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Posted By micklecats
As I am nearing completion of an NVQ4, and also being made redundant in the next 3 weeks, does anyone have any advice regarding which direction to take regarding the on-going job search?
I currently have the NEBOSH Gen. Cert. and have been applying for the last 3 months on that basis. I have added a line on my CV stating that I am nearing completion of the NVQ4 to enable the potential employer to better judge my current status.
It is looking more likely as time passes that I am facing being unemployed for a period of time.
Is it wise to wait until the NVQ4 is completed and passed off by the assessors and verifiers, and then look for work that requires full corporate membership?
Or do I continue as I am?
I seem to be getting interviews in the public sector but as yet have had no actual success, even after doing my very best and doing a seemingly good interview (feedback has been quite vague with no real reasons given). I am currently in manufacturing and distribution - in Birmingham - where I have been involved in OHS for almost 6 years.
I can also see the Mrs telling me to get a job back on the shop floor, which is where I came from. I see this as a backward step myself, is it likely to be detrimental to my 'employability'?
If anyone can advise me I would be most appreciative, as what little hair I have left is wearing a little thin;-)
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Posted By Richard Pigg
Sorry to hear about your situation. The good news is you are getting interviews. The next question is why are you not getting the job.
There are many resources on the web with an interview tips section (try www.vertex-solutions.co.uk - they are an IT Recruitment Agency, but the tips section is excellent).
Just as important as technique is attitude, there is good reason why people who are reasnably happy in there current jobs fare better at interview than those who have been made redundant recently. Someone who does not NEED that job, normally impresses the interviewer with confidence and the interviewer starts to sell themselves to the candidate.
Please don't go back to the shop floor unles you really have to, from an interviewers point of view you have admitted that you are not confident in getting a job.
One final note, as Recruiters we expect an offer for every 5 -7 interviews. Not getting a job does not mean you are useless it just means that someone else was deemed more suitable.
Best of luck and chin up
Richard Pigg
Options Employment - Health & Safety Division
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Posted By David Kinnison
My advice would be to complete your NVQ as soon as you can. Get it through the verifiers (internal and external). There may be a delay with the external: check with your centre. With your NVQ level 4 qualification under your belt you will qualified to "diploma level" furthermore, you can apply for membership of IOSH, which will further increase your employment opportunities.
But remember, when potential employers ask you what experience do you have and how you tackle 'problems' in the workplace you will be able to refer to your NVQ portfolio. You have demonstrated to national standards that you can undertake the role of H&S practioner.
I would include on your CV now that you are near completion of NVQ and will be seeking membership of IOSH. You update it later once you are qualified.
Please do not lose sight of completion of your NVQ lv 4: it will open doors for you in the long run. In short-term there is nothing wrong in keeping busy taking a job whilst looking for a better one.
Keep your chin up and finish the course. With your experience in Manufacturing & distribution + being centrally based I am sure opoortunities will come your way.
All the best.
Dave K.
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Posted By Linda Crossland-Clarke
Hi
One question you could ask of your training provider, is when is the next External Verifiers visit?
If it is in 5 or 6 months time and you have nearly completed your NVQ, you could possibly ask to transfer to another provider, who may be having an EV visit sooner. This way you get your certification at your convenience.
For ease you will have to choose a provider that is of the same awarding body. Are you with City & Guilds or OCR?
Linda
SHE Knows Ltd
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Posted By micklecats
Thanks to all who posted a response and/or contacted me directly.
The NVQ is going supersonic this week and WILL be completed on time.
It is reassuring to know that there are still people out in the wide world who are good enough to offer advice.
Thanks again.
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Posted By Hilary Charlton
I agree you should not go back to the shop floor, however, also agree that when money is tight it seems like there may be no option. Why not temp while continuing to search for a health and safety position? It pays the bills but does not tie you down in the same way as a permanent job.
You sound to me like an ideal candidate for a health and safety job in the manufacturing environment. Someone who knows health and safety but also knows the job what a coup! I think success will come within this environment but apply for anything and everything and you will succeed eventually.
Have faith
Hilary
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