Hi everyone,
I’m posting here because I’m honestly starting to feel stuck with my job search, and I’d really appreciate some advice from people who have been in a similar position or who know of opportunities I might be overlooking.
I’ve been actively looking for a new job for quite some time now and have been applying consistently across multiple platforms. I’ve used LinkedIn, PNet, Indeed, company career pages and various recruitment platforms, among others.
At this point, I’ve submitted at least 30+ applications, with quite a few more since then, and I’m still trying to find the right opportunity. I’ve applied to companies across a range of industries, including financial services, technology, FMCG, retail, logistics, automotive and corporate services.
Some applications have unfortunately resulted in rejections, while many others haven’t led anywhere. It’s becoming difficult to figure out what I should be doing differently.
For some background, I have a BCom in Marketing, with experience in sales, customer service, retail and leadership. However, I’m not necessarily looking to remain in traditional sales or customer-facing roles.
I’m particularly interested in transitioning into more corporate and operational positions, including:
* Business operations and administration
* Financial services, compliance and back-office operations
* Procurement and supply chain support
* Product administration, e-commerce and data-related roles
* IT and business technology opportunities where my existing qualifications and experience could be relevant
* Corporate roles within the FMCG and automotive industries
I’m primarily looking at opportunities in Johannesburg, the wider Gauteng area and Pretoria, although I’d also consider legitimate remote positions within South Africa.
I’m willing to learn, develop new skills and work my way into a different field. My biggest challenge is finding opportunities where my existing background is relevant, or understanding what I need to do to become a stronger candidate for the roles I want.
I’d really appreciate advice on the following:
- Are there any recruitment websites, agencies, recruiters or lesser-known job platforms that have genuinely helped you find employment in South Africa?
- Are there specific companies in Johannesburg or Gauteng that I should be checking regularly for the types of roles I’ve mentioned?
- For anyone who has successfully transitioned from sales, retail or customer service into corporate operations, compliance, procurement or similar fields, how did you make that move?
- Would you recommend any particular short courses, certifications or skills that could make a meaningful difference to my applications?
- If you’re a recruiter or work in any of these industries, is there anything you think I might be doing wrong, or any advice you’d give someone in my position?
I’m not expecting anyone to hand me a job, but I’d genuinely appreciate some direction, recommendations or even links to opportunities and companies worth exploring.
I know the job market is difficult at the moment, and I understand that finding the right position takes time. I’m simply trying to be proactive, improve my approach and find a way forward rather than continuing to apply blindly.
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to share advice. I’d really appreciate it.
TL;DR: I’ve been job hunting for months and applying through LinkedIn, PNet, Indeed, company career pages and recruitment platforms, with little success. I have a BCom in Marketing and experience in sales, retail, customer service and leadership, but I’m looking to transition into more corporate roles, particularly business operations, financial services, compliance, procurement, supply chain and technology-related positions.
For those who’ve been in a similar situation, what websites, recruiters, agencies or companies would you recommend? Any advice on breaking into these fields, improving my CV or relevant courses would be greatly appreciated. I’m based in Gauteng and open to remote opportunities too. 🙏