Sales and marketing jobs are difficult to find

Question

After relocating with my family to Scotland I am finding it difficult to get a job. I have 12 years' sales and marketing experience in the leisure industry, and relevant opportunities in this sector are few and far between. Now I am broadening my search to include events positions and jobs in the hospitality industry.

I have had interviews for sales executive and events co-ordinator positions for a national hotel chain, but I did not get the jobs, presumably due to lack of hotel experience. I have also tried to get much lower-paid part-time roles within hotels, although both times I was asked why I didn't want to earn more in sales and marketing.

I have questioned my interview technique and sought ways to improve this area. I always research the company and the roles in some depth before each interview. I also explain my reasons for wanting the post and my change in direction in my covering letter and tweak my CV to include the skills the role requires. I am enthusiastic, extremely well organised, well
presented and have good communication skills. I have received positive feedback from a leisure firm where I narrowly missed out on getting the general manager's post, but I am beginning to lose confidence. Have you any suggestions? I have attached my CV for your comment.

What the expert says

Nick Gourley, sales director, Blue Arrow Catering

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It certainly sounds like you have been extremely pro-active in your approach so far. Your preparation for interviews is thorough and professional and I do not believe this is the root of the problem. When specific roles are limited (as you are finding) there are often many excellent calibre candidates seeking the same role, leaving the employer in the position to select a candidate with extensive operational experience in the sector. Although you explain your reasons for applying to less skilful positions, an employer would always look at candidates who do this with an element of caution and be wary that the role is not being used simply as a stepping-stone to your ideal role. I would suggest you research all the businesses in your location that you might like to work for and market yourself directly to them. You may even want to consider offering your time on a trial basis to provide you with an opportunity to build a relationship with them and demonstrate your suitability to work in their company. Alternatively, you could look for positions of a similar level in another department, such as front of house, where you would be better placed to see other job opportunities as they arise. Finally, why not write to the national hotel chain you mentioned and ask for some further specific feedback? This may help you identify the candidate that particular company is seeking.