Getting a Job

[Dj Silver]

I don't know where else to put this post, it's not Angard related but somebody on here may know the answer. Or please move it to the relevant section, thanks.

I have tried to get a job as a postman for the past twelve months, applying for 14 jobs in the Bournemouth/Poole area.

I have to date had one interview and that was in October 2011 and that was for my first application.. I am sure I didn't get the job because I mentioned transferring to another office close to home and when I could do it. I was being honest not thinking it was a problem as I would still be working for RM.

Since then I have not had one interview, not a sniff.

I know I can do the job, I have done similar in the past which is on my cv. I wonder if it is an ge related issue, as I am just 61 or if I hav been black listed.

I am fitter than many 40 year olds I know, I use the gym, I can and I do walk miles.

It really is soul destroying, as I keep seeing the same jobs at the same offices reappearing and if only somebody would give me a chance.

Any thoughts, is there anything I can do? Is this normal?

Just some more, I did Christmas sorting last year and Flexible resource work this year (Both Angard though)

Thanks.

[POSTMAN]

I would think,and i'm betting most who read this would think the same is that it would be 'unofficially from RM's point of view as they would be in big trouble' an age thing.
Are you no on Angard's books on the flex resource thing then.

[Lounge Lizard]

I would tend to agree that you probably didn't get the job because you mentioned transferring to another office close to home and when you could do it. So keen to get such a job I applied for every vacancy within quite a distance, got an interview for one twenty miles away, then because I 'failed' the interview couldn't be considered for any other vacancies for six months. Several months later I applied for one at my local delivery office, got the job and haven't looked back. In hindsight I realise that with plenty of applicants to choose from, other things being equal, they will choose the local person for a better expectation of reliably turning up on time, and similarily they would probably opt for not being involver with a transfer in the future. Sadly a lesson that being honest might not always be best, especially as not mentioning your plans would not be being dishonest. My advice to anyone has been only apply for your local delivery office, and to that might be added don't unnecessarily say anything that might be a complication or count against you.
As for age, I've no idea if there's any discrimination in that respect.

[Dj Silver]

I would tend to agree that you probably didn't get the job because you mentioned transferring to another office close to home and when you could do it. So keen to get such a job I applied for every vacancy within quite a distance, got an interview for one twenty miles away, then because I 'failed' the interview couldn't be considered for any other vacancies for six months. Several months later I applied for one at my local delivery office, got the job and haven't looked back. In hindsight I realise that with plenty of applicants to choose from, other things being equal, they will choose the local person for a better expectation of reliably turning up on time, and similarily they would probably opt for not being involver with a transfer in the future. Sadly a lesson that being honest might not always be best, especially as not mentioning your plans would not be being dishonest. My advice to anyone has been only apply for your local delivery office, and to that might be added don't unnecessarily say anything that might be a complication or count against you.
As for age, I've no idea if there's any discrimination in that respect.

That's what I think, employing people nearer to the office. The offices I've applied for are 4-5 miles away, no distance at all.

I've sent an email FAO: Senior Recruitment Manger explaining all and asking if I have been black listed due to my first interview.

I'll let you know the outcome.

So much for honesty!

Cheers.

[Dj Silver]

Well, after fifteen months and approximately the same amount of applications I have an offer.

At step 6 currently, so I'm assuming just the CRB to go which won't be a problem as I passed it last year for Christmas casual.

The really surprising thing is, it is a permanent contract, I didn't think they existed.

[POSTMAN]

Nice one,keep us informed.

[Dj Silver]

Nice one,keep us informed.

I will thanks.

A couple of questions if you can help please.

The offer states it is a permanent contract of 24 hours a week over 5 days. My hours are from 06.45 - 13.11, this equates to 32.5 hours. So I'm unsure as to how this will pan out, any ideas?

Secondly, this may sound silly but what is the difference between a temporary and a permanent contract? I appreciate it won't have to be renewed say, every 3, 4 or 6 months but how else does it differ?

Many thanks

[POSTMAN]

Nice one,keep us informed.

I will thanks.

A couple of questions if you can help please.

The offer states it is a permanent contract of 24 hours a week over 5 days. My hours are from 06.45 - 13.11, this equates to 32.5 hours. So I'm unsure as to how this will pan out, any ideas?

Secondly, this may sound silly but what is the difference between a temporary and a permanent contract? I appreciate it won't have to be renewed say, every 3, 4 or 6 months but how else does it differ?

Many thanks

The times of attendance advertised will usually be different when you actually do the job,it's a left hand right hand thing.

[POSTMAN]

Nice one,keep us informed.

I will thanks.

A couple of questions if you can help please.

The offer states it is a permanent contract of 24 hours a week over 5 days. My hours are from 06.45 - 13.11, this equates to 32.5 hours. So I'm unsure as to how this will pan out, any ideas?

Secondly, this may sound silly but what is the difference between a temporary and a permanent contract? I appreciate it won't have to be renewed say, every 3, 4 or 6 months but how else does it differ?

Many thanks

The times of attendance advertised will usually be different when you actually do the job,it's a left hand right hand thing.

Perm,you have to keep your nose clean for the 1st trial year,then you will 100% be in.
Temp,as above but for 4 years,and it's usually hell for all 4,with that worry whether you will be renewed every so often.

[Dj Silver]

The times of attendance advertised will usually be different when you actually do the job,it's a left hand right hand thing.

Perm,you have to keep your nose clean for the 1st trial year,then you will 100% be in.
Temp,as above but for 4 years,and it's usually hell for all 4,with that worry whether you will be renewed every so often.

Thanks for that.

I was wondering if there are any other benefits such as holiday entitlement etc.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

The times of attendance advertised will usually be different when you actually do the job,it's a left hand right hand thing.

Perm,you have to keep your nose clean for the 1st trial year,then you will 100% be in.
Temp,as above but for 4 years,and it's usually hell for all 4,with that worry whether you will be renewed every so often.

Thanks for that.

I was wondering if there are any other benefits such as holiday entitlement etc.

Yes - it should all be explained in your contract but as a rough guide approx 1 weeks holiday for every 3 months worked. After 6 months and again after 1 year your pay should increase. Also you should be treated the same as permanent staff although as a temp your seniority when applied will be very low. Oh and join the CWU as well, they will then be able to help if you run into any situation which you think is unfair.

[Dj Silver]

Brilliant, thank you Mr Terrier.

Never been a member of a Union and have to say I've been one to think they are bad news. However, reading the things on here that can happen makes me think otherwise.

Thank you for the info.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

No worries DJ Silver - I am ex forces which isn't really a bastion of Union stalwarts, and one of our Scottish Colleagues was an ex-policeman who has been sacked for starting to tackle a Unit where B&H from management was rife, they are also not known for supporting Union values.

They do say Royal Mail is the Unions best recruiting tool, its just they don't want to be.

[Dj Silver]

I'm ex forces too ........ dreamy R.E.M.E

I did Carlisle, Plymouth, Sennelager, N.I. and Catterick, all the good jobs!

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Ex Penguin I'm afraid - don't hate me