On April 25, you carried a letter by AB of Glasgow, about finding work. I was in a similar situation eight months ago, and feel able to offer some constructive advice. Firstly, AB should not give up hope. It only takes one successful application to get a job.

Secondly, a good CV or interview technique is not an automatic guarantee of anything: everybody else does these as well. What is it that makes the difference in his or her case, and hence get the employment he wants?

Thirdly, the point you make about starting salary is entirely justified. AB's self belief is good, but salary is (in private commerce at least) usually based on experience, results and ability, not necessarily age. Employers always want to know what you can do for them.

Consequently, a ''get-his-foot-in-the-door'' point of view would be more constructive. Once there he can demonstrate his abilities and command a higher salary. Apart from anything else, if AB knows what the going rate is for his work, then this demonstrates to employers a certain level of knowledge in his proposed area. My own professional body circulates this type of information for my profession, as well as changes in work trends. I found this a useful reference, as I could back up my point of view, rather than simply make a guess.

AB seems to be bitter about people who got jobs through contacts (parents, friends etc). In my experience I have found this an excellent way to get work.

Very often it puts you ahead of the

crowd, the person knows you, and so knows what they are getting. This makes the difference, as from the employer's point of view they are not employing an unknown quantity.

In a world where everyone has the same qualifications as you do, this must be to your advantage.

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