Severly struggling to find employment. Please help!
Hello all!
Here is some background. I have been looking for a junior architecture job in Toronto, Ontario since I graduated a little over 2 years ago. I managed to get a position working at an interior design/build company for about a year before the company crashed and burned, and I got laid off (with 4 months of unpaid wages, btw). I did get some valuable experience and have also been doing freelance work for a couple of clients. Now I am nearing the end of my unemployment insurance and I am panicking once again.
For starters, there are practically no roles for entry-level or little experience posted for my city or surrounding area; when there are, I jump on them and write a custom cover letter, try to get in touch with someone there, etc. For anything I have applied for, I have been either ghosted or rejected rather quickly, and I am not sure why. I have also been trying to look into networking events, but I'm having trouble finding anything with a social aspect; it's pretty much only walking tours and lectures or expensive workshops. I did a lot of connecting with professors before I got my last job and it helped a bit, however I don't think there is much more they can do for me.
I guess my questions are:
- Am I doing something fundamentally incorrect?
- Are there glaring issues with my portfolio/resume? (any feedback is welcome!)
- Should all documents be in one file or separate files? (Eg. resume, portfolio, letters of recommendation)
- Are there any better places to look for networking opportunities?
- I was debating going into nearby offices and offering part-time services/dropping off a business card but I'm not sure about the etiquette on this. I know architects are extremely busy and likely don't have time, but I have heard mixed opinions. Is this a good idea?
- I have also been considering working in construction labour (I have a little bit of experience). What is the best way to find those job opportunities?
I'll finish this off by saying I know the economy is bad, but this is something I still really want to do, and I can't afford to wait for it to bounce back. I would really appreciate anyone's thoughts or perspectives.
Here is my portfolio/resume combined: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lxm7KvPlBIGCjftK3g-q4gjlks2lZReh/view?usp=drive_link