Will I ever get hired ? Does my short career experience have a negative impression to future employers ?

Question

I have a degree in Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science. I took my degree in the UK in which it does not requires me to pursue an internship in order to graduate (like in most Malaysian university). Hence, I went to look for my first job with only an educational experience. I managed to secure my first job at a cosmetic manufacturing, however the environment was too toxic for my mental being.

So, I had to quit with only 6 months of experience in that manufacture company. I went through another 6 months of unemployment. Then, I managed to find a part-time paid volunteering job and worked for another 6 months. Because of the low pay and there was no full time opportunity, I also had to leave this job.

I've applied for more jobs and went for interviews. Whenever they ask me why I left the manufacture company, of course I don't want to make up excuses. So, I tried my best to explain why I left. And we all know that toxic work environment excuse is a dangerous one to tell the interviewer, because they will think " Well, maybe you're the one that's toxic ". At one point, I didn't want to use the toxic environment excuse, so I lied that I had to take care of my sick grandma and that's why I quit.

And now, I just don't know what do to anymore. Do the companies that I applied for doesn't want to hire me because they see that I leave so soon ? I'm not giving up. I'm still applying for jobs. I just feel like what will happen if I have not given up so easily and not let other people make me feel down when I work at that manufacturing company. I can admit my mistakes. I'm sure there were a lot of mistakes I made when I was working there. But it was my very first experience in the working world. How am I supposed to learn if I'm not making mistakes ? Were my employers didn't see that I was trying my best ?

Accepted Answer

It is understandable that you are feeling uncertain about your job prospects given your short career experience and the difficulties you faced in your previous roles. It's important to remember that everyone makes mistakes, especially in their first job, and it's through these experiences that we learn and grow. Having only six months of experience in your first job and another six months of part-time volunteering may be a concern for some employers who prefer more stability and long-term commitment. However, it does not mean that you won't ever get hired. To improve your chances of getting hired, here are a few suggestions:1. Highlight your educational background: Emphasize your degree in Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science, as it shows you have relevant knowledge and skills in the industry.2. Showcase transferrable skills: Although your work experience may be limited, focus on the skills you gained during your previous roles, such as problem-solving, attention to detail, teamwork, and time management.3. Gain additional experience: Consider seeking internships, entry-level positions, or part-time roles in the field to build up your experience. This will show potential employers that you are committed and dedicated to developing your career.4. Network: Connect with professionals in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry through networking events, LinkedIn, or industry-specific forums. Building relationships with industry insiders can provide valuable insights and potential job opportunities.5. Seek feedback: If possible, reach out to your previous employers or mentors for constructive feedback on your performance. This can help you identify areas for improvement and demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow.When it comes to explaining why you left your previous roles, it's important to be honest while framing your reasons in a positive light. Instead of focusing on the toxic work environment (which can raise concerns for employers), emphasize the challenges you faced and your proactive decision to seek better opportunities. You can mention that you learned valuable lessons during those experiences, such as the importance of a supportive work environment and aligning with company values.Remember, everyone faces setbacks in their career journey, and it's important to stay positive and resilient. Keep honing your skills, exploring opportunities, and presenting yourself in the best possible way. With persistence and a proactive approach, you will increase your chances of finding a job that aligns with your qualifications and career goals. Good luck!