To VB or not to VB

[Matthew Cuda]

This is an official pity party. If this is not your scene, I am sorry. I am tired of interviewing for Visual Basic employment, only to be told that I am there second choice.

The junior jobs are going to seniors. Is there any Junior jobs left? And don't say there is plenty in Java, because the grass seems always greener on the other side. I also know a little Java.

I am losing my desire to continue this process, and the money is no longer available to continue my education. I currently hold a bachelors degree and a diploma, so I know education is not the answer. I have tried praying, for those who thing I need the Lord(I already am saved). That has not worked. Everyone says I do fine in an interview. So thats not the issue. I have reworked my resume so many times, even I wonder if it is still the truth.

To top it all off, as soon as I became proficiant with VB, Microsoft announces the release of VB.NET.

Anyone else feeling this way? For those who did get the break, tell me more.

[SurfDemon]

Don't worry. The job market goes through up-s and downs every few months (usually when new corporate budgets come out). My advice (which is probably not worth much ) is to stick it out.

I've been out of work for two months at a time, then suddenly you get 3 job offers in a week. Other times, people are trying to poach you out of the job your already in. So the market will pick up again.

Don't worry about the VB.Net thing. There are a huge number of VB 6 applications out there. Alot of these will need to be converted to VB.Net, so knowing both versions of the language is actually a huge asset.

I made alot of money when VB 4 went 32-bit, converting old VB 3 applications, I'm sure this will be the same again.

If you have a Bachelors, why are you continuing you're education?

Are you going for a Masters? If so, I've found that these add little to your employability.

SD

[nompi]

My answer is based on a few lines you mentioned "I have tried praying, and that has not worked".

You've probably heard this a dozen times, but I'll hammer it into your head again(I have the right to - if you're saved you're family), "Pray Works!". But not on it's own, it works along side faith, not deviating from the Lord's will, and most importantly - sticking it through!

[nullus]

I dunno if this is a great solution for you as it can cost quite a lot, but getting an MCSD qualification can impress employers quite a lot (apparently some are impressed more by MCSDs than people with degrees).

I left college with average qualifications, then decided to do the MCSD. It took a few months, but I eventually got a good job.

Good luck

[SurfDemon]

I agree with nullus on this one. The MCSD's, whilst not an essential, are very well regarded by employers.

SD

[SurfDemon]

Mmmmm. If praying gets you a job that you wouldn't have otherwise got, doesn't that strike you as a little bit unfair?

What about the dilligent person who is now out of work. Surely as a Christian it would be more generous and Christian like to allow the other person to get the job (which is by all accounts theirs anyway).

SD

[Geoff Gunson]

I turned pro (oo-er) nearly four years go straight from college, the job was and still is poor money but in this game experience counts. Stick at it, once you get your fist job you should be set.

Remember some majour telecoms companys have annouced large job losses which in turn is affecting the ecnomy, people are still being a bit cauious with their money.

Also do you have a portfolio, something with all the programs that you have written with screen shots, descriptions etc, that make a good impression with an interviewer.

Good Luck M80

G