The last couple of interviews i've had have asked me what i've been doing since september, i've only had a month long temp job not worth mentioning and my reply of 'looking for the right job' seemed to be meet with a hmm and raised eyebrow.

How big a gap in employment until your CV screams unemployable slacker, I really feel like my 'skills' and work experience are depreciating by the second.

Also sub question, at what point did you give up on your chosen career? do you think there is a critical window of time after studying for something and getting a job in that area before you will be overlooked for fresher applicants