Hello! I know it can be really tough when you're on the job search and you keep facing setbacks. It's so important to remember that the more challenging it gets, the more you need to take care of your physical and mental health.
Let's start by taking a look at what's happened, based on what you've told me.
First, you have a good idea of what you want from your job. You want 8,000 to 10,000 RMB, no more than six months probation, weekends off, a company close to home, and no layoffs. You have a clear goal, and you've made it clear what you want, which is very important.
Secondly, you don't think the requirements are too high. This is because you're in Shenzhen, and the job you're looking for as an illustrator requires a lot of creativity and a foundation in art.
(The above two points are rules or goals you've set for yourself.)
Third, you've recently taken the initiative to participate in many "drafts" in order to achieve your goal, but the results haven't been what you were expecting. You feel physically and mentally exhausted, and it's really troubling you.
Fourth, it seems like you're having a bit of trouble understanding the company's interview rules. They state that if you have a portfolio, you also need to submit a draft. I totally get it if you're feeling a bit resentful about that. It's natural to wonder, "Can't they tell the level of the artist?" and "Why not just choose the best?"
Fifth, you've tried your best to participate in the "trial draft," but it hasn't worked out. Not participating means giving up, and that's not what you want. So, you're looking for some practical action plans from the psychological platform.
If the above analysis is on the mark, let's take a look at what the real problem you're facing is and what caused it.
How can I face this?
1. It seems like there's a bit of a gap between the job you want and your "ability to perform" when you try out for the job. Don't worry, though! Shortening the distance between "wanting" and "being able to get it" is the key to solving the problem.
2. I put "ability to perform" in quotation marks because there are so many reasons why you might not find a job you like. Ability is just one factor, and there are lots of other things to consider too. When I was looking for a job after graduating from graduate school, I was still quite ambitious. I felt that my major was relevant, my grades were good, and my school was also quite good locally. I was always in the top three in every written exam, but I was really surprised to face seven failures.
After taking a good, hard look at the reasons why I wasn't getting the job, I realized that I wasn't as good at expressing myself during the interview as I could have been. I also wasn't as confident as I should have been in my appearance and language. On top of that, I just plain got unlucky! I kept running into people who had more practical experience, had studied abroad, or had better connections. It was a rough go of it. I'll never forget the scene of a person running from Guangzhou to Nanjing for an interview, failing, and crying bitterly on a very cold winter night. It was really unforgettable.
I'm really sorry to hear that you've had a similar experience to me. I don't know much about your job, but I can understand how you feel.
3. Now that I've shared all this with you, how do you think you'll handle it?
I'm going to be completely honest with you. This platform is all about psychological issues, not vocational training, so it's tricky to give you the "practical action plan" you're looking for. But don't worry! As long as you adjust your mentality, you'll see the solution to your problem will become clear.
Secondly, it's probably not the best idea to try to change other people's rules (it's almost impossible!), but you can definitely try to improve what you can do, such as changing your mindset and improving your abilities. From your self-introduction, I get the feeling that you're a bit "subjective" (only) know what you want, and tend to look at other people's problems from your own perspective.
This is demonstrated by: believing that the work goals they have set are reasonable (ignoring the conditions); feeling torn between the company's recruitment rules of "having a portfolio and also a writing sample"; and asking the psychological platform to provide a "plan of action." I must admit, I don't really understand this job, but I'm sure it'll be clear to me soon enough!
In this world, you know this for a fact, but for others, there are many possibilities, and vice versa. And, in addition, for a job, ability is only part of the picture. There are so many other important aspects to consider, too, like the way you deal with people and your values.
If you show such "subjectivity" in an interview, regardless of the situation, as an interviewer, that is, if you have very good work, the company will also consider it carefully. Don't worry, though! This is totally normal.
Third, if the setback is caused by external factors, such as bad luck or a lack of personal performance, it might be helpful to lower your standards a little, find a job to do for now, adjust your body and mind, and wait for a better opportunity.
In short, when people are in a mood, especially a mood of frustration, it can be tough to stay calm and think clearly about yourself and the people and things around you. But in the long run, it's not necessarily a bad thing to go through a little hardship when you're young.
I really hope you can find your ideal job and become a beloved illustrator!
Comments
I can totally relate to how you feel. It's tough out there, especially when you're pouring your heart into each submission. What I've found helpful is focusing on building a versatile portfolio that shows range and depth. Instead of seeing trial works as obstacles, try viewing them as opportunities to diversify your portfolio and improve your skills.
It sounds like you're facing a lot of rejection, which can be incredibly draining. One approach could be to take a step back and assess what these companies are looking for in an illustrator. Maybe there's a trend or style that's currently popular that you can incorporate into your work. Also, consider reaching out to professionals in the field for feedback on your trial works and portfolio.
The frustration with trial works is real. They do take up a lot of time and it's not always clear if they're worth it. However, they can serve as a way to refine your personal style and technique. Perhaps you can set boundaries for yourself, like limiting the time spent on each trial draft or deciding in advance how many attempts you'll make before reassessing your strategy.
Finding a balance between pursuing illustration jobs and maintaining your wellbeing is crucial. Maybe you can explore other avenues within the industry that might align with your skills and interests, such as freelance projects or collaborating with artists who share similar visions. This could open up new possibilities while also giving you a break from the traditional job hunt.