Job Search

[whitesatin]

I know a lot of us have been laid off over the past several months (including me).  How are all my laid off friends doing in their search for new employment?

I find that there are plenty of jobs, but I am choosing to be very selective.  I have been in my last job for 13 1/2 years, so I don't want to jump at the first thing that comes along.

I'd like to hear how everyone is doing.  I know looking for a job during the holidays presents it's own set of challenges.

WhiteSatin

[chris68]

Whitesatin,

I've been in your shoes before but never during the holidays.  I can't imagine, but can understand the uncertainty that goes with layoff.  However, a recommendation, enjoy the holidays the best you can and take time for yourself thru the New Year and begin looking after the New Year.  Lots of people are taking time off and if you are interviewed may be left in limbo until after the holiday anyway.  However, don't stop looking something may turn up.  I'm a firm believer in being at the right place at the right time.

Best of luck to you and let me know when you find somethin.

Just my .02 cents.

Chris68
Deskdemon Forum Board Staff

[whitesatin]

Thanks for your encouragement Chris.  It seems that there are tons of jobs out there, I just want to find that special one.

Hope your holidays are bright and festive.

WhiteSatin

[cocookie]

White Satin,
Hey, me too!!  I was at my job 16 years before being laid off and I agree with you about being picky.  It also seems to me that this is a good time to look around and see if there are other areas that might be of interest and financial reward.  Problem is that as I read the ads I keep going back to the admin section because I understand all of the "buzz" words in those ads, but I feel lost with some of the jargon in other ads.

One interesting thing --- I attended a job resource fair that offered the following advise:
Newspaper ads are only used as a last ditch effort; companies most frequently promote within the department or find someone in another department.  Their next best effort is to scour the HR files for resumes that have come in recently.  She recommended researching companies where you would like to work and sending a great cover letter and resume so that they can keep your information on file for unexpected openings.  She also said that your best opportunity of getting close to your previous salary would be in a position with the same job title and duties as your previous position.

I also agree about taking it easy through the holidays and then hitting the job search mode in January.  Personally, I'm enjoying my time off and I'm only sorry that I really do have to find another job.  Right now I'm rejoicing in the fact that my Christmas shopping is done and gifts are wrapped, I've made homemade fudge and chicken soup (first time ever in my life), and I've even had time to clean out my closet!!!

The job fair people also stressed being good to yourself physically during a layoff and job search period; exercise, eat well, sleep as well as possible, etc.

Good luck in your search and keep us informed of your progress,
cocookie

[whitesatin]

Thanks Cookie!

After I posted this morning, I got a call for an interview tomorrow at 2:30 p.m.  I don't know what the pay is, but it is located in the city where I live, so if it pays well I could knock 80 miles off of my daily commute.  It is with an architectural firm.  OH GOD, I NEED A HAIRCUT AND CAN'T GET AHOLD OF MY STYLIST!!!  ARGGGHHH!!!  Deep breath.......relax...........Ohhhhhmmmmmmmm.........I'll let you know what happens.  By the way, I found that job in the want ads in the newspaper and also, my 13 1/2 year job I found in the want ads in the newspaper.  Nothing ventured is nothing gained.

Good luck to you in your search!!!!

WhiteSatin

[cocookie]

Whitesatin,

GOOD LUCK on your interview.  I'll be anxious to hear about it.  Wow, an 80 mile commute!!!!!  I'd be willing to take a lot less money to avoid that kind of drive.

About the newspaper - she just meant that before a job shows up in a newspaper ad the company has already done some looking internally and through networking.  

She also said that during an interview your qualifications are #8 in importance (they already know you are qualified or they wouldn't have bothered to call you in).  She said the #1 area of importance in an interview is APPEARANCE and the best way to improve your appearance is to project ENERGY.

Let us know what happened.

[peacelily54]

WhiteSatin - I too send you my good wishes and hope all went well on the interview.  

I can't imagine such a long commute to work - I'd rather be using that time to read a book, taking a walk or almost anything other than driving such a long distance.  

I have been laid off for a couple of months and am still looking.  It's only me here so the finances are getting pretty scary.  Lots of activity and 3 interviews but each company decided to hire within.  I've been selective but not too selective in terms of what part of town I'd like to work and have dropped considerably in salary requirement.  I have another interview on the 3rd of January with a company that has been in business for 61 years and they have never laid anyone off!  Isn't that unbelievable!  Also, to be on the safe side, I am available for any temp positions the first week of January.  I don't know about you, but I am seeing lots and lots of temp positions in our town.  

It's been hard not to worry during the holidays but I am giving it my best shot.  I have a wonderful family and a few good friends that have offered to help me out financially if needed.  It certainly is a humbling experience!  Of course, if I need the money I'll not be foolish and will ask for the help.  It's a bit hard because I've always taken care of things myself for me and my daughter.  The good news is that it's only me now.  My brother, who is a really neat guy, called yesterday and asked if I was going to be home in the afternoon.  Said he had something to give me but couldn't stay because he had some customers to visit.  So, he stops by and gives me some cash to use as I see fit and tells me he doesn't want it back - it's a gift!  Then quickly gives me a hug and gets out the door before I can change my mind.  As I said, he's a really neat guy.  

I will take the advice given here and be a bit kinder and gentler with myself during this time.  I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

[tnvolgalcps]

Actually, I was FIRED from my last job on November 2...have kind of stayed away from this board for a while...just too depressed. But, things are looking up! I found my next job through an ad in the newspaper and began working Dec 10 part time until after Jan 1. It is with an advertising firm in town that has been in business for 52 years....I am loving it! I think I have found my niche after making the mistake of leaving academics almost two years ago.

Anyway, good luck to all who are looking...the right job is out there!

[whitesatin]

Thanks PeaceLilly and Ms. Tennessee,

Best wishes to both of you.  Glad to see you back Ms. Tennessee, I wondered how you were doing since we hadn't heard from you in a long time.  I hope your new job continues to work out well for you and I'm happy to see that you are feeling better.

Don't worry PeaceLilly, that special job is out there just waiting for you.  When you least expect it, that is when it will happen.

My interview went very well.  It was last Thursday and they said they would make a decision sometime this week.  I interviewed with the office manager and the general manager.  I was really impressed with this company and really hope they pick me.

Thanks for all your support everyone.  I'll let you know if I hear anything.  I'll keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers as well.

WhiteSatin

[akara]

I've been laid off three times in the last three years, and the writing appears to be on the wall in my current job, so I am looking to go before it happens again.

December is a very bad time to be job-hunting.  However, January tends to pick up, as people return to work after Christmas, think it's time for a new start and hand in their notice.  So I am hoping it will pick up.

There is no shortage of papers with job ads in London; I find it a useful place to go.  It's worth spending time on your CV, as a good CV will get you an interview.  The hard part, I find, is selling yourself at the interview.

Good luck to everyone on this Board who's looking for a new job - I know exactly how you feel!