All my experiences of work have been bad

Question

I am 29 years old and have worked in hospitality since the age of 15, but I'm unable to find a suitable job. I have a degree in hospitality management, which I got in 1999, but since then my career has been a series of broken promises.

I was taken on to open a restaurant in Ipswich, but it failed to open. Then I worked at a franchise and didn't receive a contract and my hours were increased by 10 a week.

One job I did enjoy was for a company that is no longer in business. I then worked in sales for a year, but spent half the time travelling. As a result I split up with my partner.

My reasons and passions for entering the industry are the same as ever. I love working with people, wish to serve them, resolve any complaints and I like serving good food and seeing people's reactions to it.

My bad experiences have taught me a lot. I have learnt how to delegate, control pressure and respond to demands and feel mentally stronger.

I am currently in a contract catering position, but could not have picked a more under-resourced outlet.

In my last three job applications at management level I haven't had any luck. In my most recent one I was told that I could not handle the pressure. This was without assessing me on the shop floor first.

Should I look away from this field and re-train for a position in catering sales or persevere in what I am doing? I am losing heart in my abilities. It does not help that in my present job I am lacking motivation and there is no opportunity to move up.

What the expert says

Lesley Reynolds, managing director, Portfolio International

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Your chain of disappointments is certainly a very sad one to read and, after mulling this over for a few days, I have concluded that it is very difficult to advise you on what to do next. I believe there is a niche for everyone within this wide and diverse industry and I just feel you may have been somewhat unlucky in the selection of companies you have worked for. You clearly need a mentor and boss who will champion and support you and I see no evidence of one in any of the companies you have worked in. One question I have for you is: how much preparation and research have you done before jumping in to each of the opportunities and jobs you mention? My advice to you is that you must research and take care before any further appointments. You need to ask a few questions before you commit yourself to a new job, such as what is the reporting structure and opportunity for personal development and training in the company, and what are the current resources and what is the staff turnover? Speak to a local recruitment expert or some similar third party in your locality who can really help you to assess what has happened and where you might successfully position yourself.