[lookout123]

Griff, I originally was looking in my same industry but not in direct production roles. I've looked outside of the industry as well, I'd really like to make a break from what I've been doing but that can be hard to do. At last count I've had 37 first interviews, 24 second interviews, 13 face to face interviews, and met with VP or Director level execs 7 times. Each of the 7 times I made it to that level my lack of an MBA was a stated negative.

In those interviews I've repeatedly been told I'm overqualified for the lower level positions even though I explained I was willing to put in the hard work at that level so I could eventually work my way up within the company. I've also been told I have the experience but not the degree they were looking for (usually accounting or project management). Only twice did the interviews go genuinely badly, and even in the ones where it was an obvious mismatch the interviews were still positive for the most part.

At this point my plan is to get a job. Any job. Most companies offer some sort of tuition reimbursement at this point so once I'm working I guess it is time to head back to school.