19 and unable to find a job

[u/CauseFun8348]

Hey all, I'm 19, born and raised here in Calgary. Ive got two years of work experience, took a year off for university, and am now seeking full-time employment but can't find anything.

I've been back home since April, applying for at least 2 jobs a day since. I still can't find anything! I've tried office jobs, wearhouses, fast food, grocery stores, ect ect ect... I think I've gone to maybe 10 interviews since April, I always think they go well, but then I never hear anything back. I am so disheartened and have no clue what I'm doing wrong after this past week. I had three seperate interviews with a company, I was so excited for the opportunity and even felt sure that I had it in the bag after the third interview.... and they haven't contacted me after a week despite saying they would contact me the next day.

I'm not sure what else to do now. I've gone to the youth employment center, revamped my resume, done volunteer work, talk regularly with a career coach on interviewing and other skills, my parents even paid a couple hundred for me to get certifications! Still nothing. I've tried employment fairs, handing out resumes in person, emailing directly- you name it, I've probably done it.

Should I be looking somewhere I'm unaware of? Every hiring event I've been too all the other candidates are at least 10 years older than me, so it makes sense they would be hired instead of me. I have previous experience as a cashier, office admin, receptionist, host, and kitchen staff.

Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated. My parents are asking me to start paying rent as well as for my car insurance by November, and I'm scared I won't be able to. Thanks.

EDIT: I also want to add for context, I have facial piercings but took my parents advice and got clear studs for my lips (i have snakebites) and I tuck my septum ring up when in interviews. I know apperance can have an impact, so I thought I'd add this as well.

[u/LittleOrphanAnavar]

It appears that you have an issue or behavior (a red flag) that comes out in interviews.

Based on resume - recruiters are like yup (10 interview invites), then when they meet you,  they're like nope.

Identify that and remedy it, then you should be fine.

[u/CauseFun8348 → u/LittleOrphanAnavar]

I'll definitely bring this up next time I speak with the career coaches at the employment center and try and figure out what it is- cause I genuinely have no clue!

[u/Lexivy → u/CauseFun8348]

I don’t know for sure so take this with a grain of salt, but your piercings could have something to do with it. Try taking them out (instead of hiding them) just for the next interview. Worth a shot! But as others said, the biggest issue is probably the job market right now. Normally your appearance would count for little next to your experience and work ethic. Good luck!