It sounds to me like you simply happened to be seriously unlucky with one particular agency. There are a number of possible problems with using them (small print regarding pay and conditions, difficulties nd complications with contracts, job security, variation in how knowledgable/helpful staff are) but to be quite honest the person you spoke to in this case isn't really fit to be a recruitment consultant.
I'm currently dealing with an agency because looking for work on my own is proving to be so tough...often I have to make follow-up e-mails and phone calls to keep the dialogue going (they're often very busy so have trouble keeping track of individuals) and other agencies in the past have simply ignored me. In job-hunting, being ignored is a recurring situation unfortunately. Still, I'm only going on my experiences with UK-based agencies.
That said, there's a lot that doesn't sit right with me...the counsellor either put their points across wrong or were being very unprofessional.
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I took the wrong major in University and would have to face the consequences of that.
What's the 'wrong' major?! I'd be interested to know what you DID study. Granted, some qualifications are more useful in certain fields than others, but the fact that you have one at all is proof that you *can* apply yourself academically, at least. Blaming the student for taking the 'wrong' course is a bit harsh and not very constructive after you've finished the thing.
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Despite having a University degree, the only jobs I would be suited for would be menial jobs like a dishwasher or janitor.
Again, it depends on what you studied but I'm fairly sure that's not true at all.
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By saying no to doing such jobs, I am inflexible
What other options did this person give? They are in the business of matching candidates and vacancies; if the 'matching' is inappropriate it benefits nobody.
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The 450 hours of volunteer experience I have accumulated doesn't mean anything - it must be paid experience or nothing
Again, it depends on what the experience is *in* but generally speaking, work experience is work experience. It still counts for something whether it's paid or not.
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Because of my Asperger's, I will not be able the handle a full-time job
Categorically untrue. This person doesn't know what Asperger's is. I (and many other ASD people on this forum) are holding down full time jobs to some degree or other. Sure, it's sometimes hard but it depends on the job. And the person.
I would actually complain about the counsellor, or at least ask him or her to clarify the points you listed. It just doesn't sound like the sort of thing that a reputable agency would - or should - say. That will give you a bit of closure and peace of mind. Then try another agency. They're not the only route to getting another job, but it's still worth trying.
On this note, if they misdiagnose you it can impact they act toward you even after a correct (even multiple correct) diagnosis are made. Certain diagnosis can be extremely stigmatizing.
28 Nov 2011, 11:47 am
