SINGAPORE: A local jobseeker recently opened up on Reddit about his struggles to find work in the tech industry, saying that he’s been unemployed for nearly six months despite applying for non-engineering roles.
In his post on the r/askSingapore subreddit, he wrote, “I left my previous role due to a psychotic boss and overwork. I’ve been unemployed for almost six months now. Took the first two months to relax and clear reservist. Unfortunately, I’m now in a situation where I’ve sent out over 100 applications but only received two interviews so far—one of them for a contract role.”
He also mentioned that while he’s still financially stable for now, it’s not something he can keep up for much longer. He’s also starting to get anxious about the growing gap on his résumé and how it might affect his chances going forward.
“I’m worried about the six months block on the resume,” he said. “Know some people have already posted here, but any insights from people who made it through, anyone stuck in the same boat who recently succeeded in getting out? Any fellow unemployed and struggling?”
“There are lots out there struggling.”
In the comments, one Singaporean Redditor shared that a few of their ex-colleagues went through the same thing. “They were in tech sales and left due to toxic management. One got a job almost immediately, but she joined a small local outfit. Definitely took a pay cut. Another was out of the job for a year before getting an offer,” they wrote.
“Their experiences range from 10 to 25 years, so yes, there are lots out there struggling, and that’s the main problem; you’re competing with many more experienced jobless people along with more experienced people who simply want to job hop and those who are doing internal transfers.”
Another offered a more optimistic view, saying that a six-month gap on a résumé can be framed positively. “A gap of six months or more on your resume is a career break. Many tech companies tend to be progressive and are generally open to such breaks. If you had meaningful or interesting experiences during this time, it is definitely worth highlighting them. It could even help you stand out.”
A third added, “Tech firms bloated salaries to be honest, prepare for pay cut in non-tech sectors. Good luck!”
In other news, a 27-year-old woman shared on social media that she went through one of the strangest job interviews she’s ever had.
Posting on a local forum, she explained that she had applied to a well-known company and was initially impressed by how friendly the interviewers seemed. However, things quickly took a bizarre turn when the questions veered away from her résumé.
Instead of focusing on her work experience or skills, the interviewers asked about her blood type, horoscope, Chinese zodiac sign, and even whether she watched Korean dramas.
Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)
