I thought I would try office temping

So I have not worked in my chosen profession for a while even though I occasionally get interviews and my knowledge is up to date. So I decided to try office temping - something I did in the past before I left to train for my current profession. It has been a while but I can certainly do office things still (use Microsoft, scan, fax, use a telephone, file, search a database, photocopy). I am numerate and literate ('A' Level math's and English).

I contacted my local Reed and the reply I got was 'we have nothing for you' and 'keep looking at the website'. OK, fine  

I then saw a very basic office job with a smaller local agency and I applied. I emphasised how my experience demonstrates that I can do the tasks mentioned in the job ad' (probably standing on my head with my eyes closed, but I did not mention that). I did not even get any sort of acknowledgement even though I emailed the person mentioned in the job ad'. It is just so frustrating. I haver no idea what skills recruiters are looking for.

My CV lists my jobs in date order (most recent at the top) and details what I actually did in each job (bullet points to make it concise and readable).

I have no idea how to 'adapt my CV to the job' as seems to be the current advice . The only thing I can think of is a sort of upside down CV, starting with office temping at the top (dim and distant past) and then moving through my work history with the most recent job (professional job) right at the bottom, hidden, hopefully so that recruiters don't see it. The other option is to leave it off completely, but that leaves a blank space which I can either fill with a fabricated job or pretend I had no job at that time - not ideal    

I have looked into getting locum work in my profession but I have just been contacted by timewasters (London based agencies online) who tell me about jobs that are not even close to where I live. That is why I decided to go down the office temping route for a while.

Does anyone have any advice about how I can tackle this thorny issue? I don't want to do an office placement (free labour) to 'prove' I can work in an office, as that is exploitative.

Thanks, in anticipation.

Hi C

I would do as you suggested by placing the relevant jobs at the top of your CV.

In addition, I would look at all the key skills and competencies that are required for the jobs you are seeking and highlight those in the relevant section.

Most jobs include some form of administration so focus on the relevant skills and competencies within your current profession.

Within you personal statement include a reason why you are seeking office work and highlight the necessary qualities you possess for the specific job.

Pm me if you need further help.

Thanks ND, I will try your suggestions.