Downsized - Again

[mtbdarby]

I got fired today. Via a phone call no less...

I was downsized last August and started this job Jan. 1. I am a single mom and although everyone tells you to enjoy it it's kinda hard when you're the sole bread winner and you've just moved to a new city and bought a new home. And now 5 months later I'm in the same boat - twice in 10 months is quite the crock of crud!

I guess I'm just venting. My boss, myself and 2 others were let go stating economic issues (because she was greedy enough to build a mult-million dollar buiding during these tough times and now can't afford it but it's her company).

My son is having some anxiety issues since the move last year so I'm hesitant to tell him at this time (he's 7). On the bright side, I don't have to pay full time day care for the summer!

It burns me that one month ago I asked them point blank if I needed to be looking for a new job (I haven't stopped looking in reality) and they looked me in the eye and said they would not eliminate my position. Which is the EXACT same way it happened at my last job.

I'm fluctuating between feeling like a loser and the why me scenario and the humilation of telling family and friends again (not to mention the ex), and the whole I had no control over it line.

So I just need some virtual hugs and motivation to start the job search again. And yes, I will now have time to ride my bike more during our best time of year. Aw heck, I have a home office all set up so shoot me some ideas of a home business! My background is purchasing and supply chain/operations and I have a business degree. I like dogs, biking and traveling.

Thanks for listening and have a great weekend everyone:p

[crazycanuck]

(((Dar)))

You're not a loser!! There's something out there for you, don't give up :)

[redrhodie]

That sucks! Big hugs. I hope you get some stability soon.

[Irulan]

Oh, OW.

Home business? List your skills. I've been working from home for 20+ years, DH runs an engineering company from home.

[mtbdarby]

Irulan, here's my skills to do with as you please:
purchasing agent
love finding deals on the internet
ebay selling
project manager
great at problem-solving
articulate
big picture thinker
capable of handling multi-million dollar projects/purchases
management experience in manufacturing, purchasing and operations
have worked in the packaging, construction, real estate, stainless steel and tradeshow industries
I despise accounting and record keeping but can do them
good at negotiating contracts
resourceful
out of the box thinker
customer service


I really don't want to get into manufacturing unless it's as a consultant. I used to be really good at the details and have somehow morphed into more of a big thinker, decision maker type of personality who prefers to hand the details off to a trusted coworker. If you'd like to see my resume send me a pm - I'd appreciate any ideas.

[tulip]

(((Dar)))
You are NOT a loser! Your post actually ended up pretty positive--I can tell you have a positive outlook and attitude, even in the face of challenges. That's worth more than any resume can reflect.

I work from home, too, and I can tell you, it is really terrific. Challenging, yes, but I won't trade it for a cubicle job unless I absolutely have to. So far, so good. I am a consultant to non-profit organizations. I do alot of grant writing and project management. It's possible to do from home with minimal equipment.

The challenges include no admin help (not that I had any at my old position anyways, so it's not really an issue), no IT help--I AM the IT department, and I'm no IT person but I figure it out, being disciplined and sticking to a schedule. That's the only way I can do it, although some people don't need schedules.

I don't know anything about your field, but if you have questions about working from home, feel free to send me a PM.

This could be a GOOD thing, but I know it's so hard when it happens! Keep smiling and looking forward.

[mtbdarby]

Thanks Tulip!
I am a planner which showed up because my first reaction was to move up all my dr. appts. Once I told them the situation, they got me in for my thyroid labs, thyroid u/s and mammogram today. For dessert I met my gf for a couple margauritas:p

I was working from home for this job which was a first for me. I've kinda gotten used to it so I'd like to keep doing it if I can. I'll give it my best shot!

[arielmoon]

(((Dar)))

[Blueberry]

Ugh - I'm so sorry Dar. It's definitely NOT you - what the others have said is great advice - you have a great attitude, and I'm sure that will come through as you start looking for a new job. Sometimes employers just suck.

[Mr. Bloom]

There's a lot of this going around...this is the second phase...but this too will pass.

I'm really sorry you're confronted by this.

[Pax]

((((Dar)))) That well and truly sucks! So sorry to hear you're having to deal with this again.

[Lise]

So sorry to hear it, Dar. My dear fiancee is in the same boat. He's been unemployed for 4 months, with no prospects on the horizon. We decided to get engaged anyway and plan a small wedding, because we were feeling held hostage to the economy. It's cold comfort to know that many others are in the same boat, but it is *some* comfort (to me, at least). When I feel anxious or angry about it, I remind myself that many people all over the world are feeling the same way, through no "fault" of their own.

I'm sure you're great at what you do. So is John. You weren't fired for incompetence, just for lack of $$ to keep paying you. There will be up and down days. But hang in there and enjoy the up days. One thing that's guaranteed is change. (((Dar)))

[Tuckervill]

Dar, I live near the hub of commerce here, with what has to be the highest concentration of buyers in the world--Wal-Mart Headquarters. I know you probably don't want to relocate, but maybe they have something you can do from where you are. http://walmartstores.com/Careers/7683.aspx

Karen


Irulan, here's my skills to do with as you please:
purchasing agent
love finding deals on the internet
ebay selling
project manager
great at problem-solving
articulate
big picture thinker
capable of handling multi-million dollar projects/purchases
management experience in manufacturing, purchasing and operations
have worked in the packaging, construction, real estate, stainless steel and tradeshow industries
I despise accounting and record keeping but can do them
good at negotiating contracts
resourceful
out of the box thinker
customer service


I really don't want to get into manufacturing unless it's as a consultant. I used to be really good at the details and have somehow morphed into more of a big thinker, decision maker type of personality who prefers to hand the details off to a trusted coworker. If you'd like to see my resume send me a pm - I'd appreciate any ideas.

[Tri Girl]

Dar- I'm so sorry. :) Don't have any words, but I'm sending all the happiness and good luck finding a new job vibes your way. That really bites. (((((hugs)))))

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Dar- I'm so sorry! What a bummer for you.
But I sense your energy and creative thinking will help you turn this into a good change.

[Running Mommy]

BIG HUGE HUGS!!
So sorry to hear this Dar, I've been looking on and off, but here in the Phoenix area we have been hit hard. It's just ugly out there right now. BUT you have some skills there ma'am, so there is something out there for you.

Lise- Give John my best! So glad to hear that you are going on with the wedding. I knew you would end up getting married. I'm SO happy for you!!!

Keep your heads up all, it WILL get better!!

Denise

[ilima]

Sending lots of virtual hugs

((((((DAR))))))

Don't take this personally. This is not your fault and it's nothing to be ashamed of. It is really scary out there now.

[OakLeaf]

((((((Dar))))))

What a raw deal.

You'll get through it - I can sense your determination and creativity. Imagination is 90% of what it takes to weather any crisis, and it's plain you have that in abundance.

[Aggie_Ama]

((Dar)) That sucks and a crappy way for them to handle it but your attitude is admirable. On the bright side you will be home and can maybe provide some positive comforting to your son to help him get a little more adjusted? I don't have any advice on your job search but try to keep upbeat. A positive attitude can only help!

[SJCzar]

Oh Dar, that really stinks. I know how happy you were to be able to work out of your home. Selling your house and moving to a new city was a huge decision for you. At least now you're in a bigger town that may provide a few more opportunities for you.

This may call for a meet-up for margarita therapy and a nice long ride.

[Red Rock]

Dar- I am sorry to hear of your terrible news. Whith your skill set something has to be there for you.

Congrats Lisa on getting married! There is never a bad time for that.

I have been out of work now for almost a year. My husband and I have started our own Landscaping business. We have two clients and have been doing the word of mouth advertizing method. My husband was able to go back to work for the City on a part time basis, so that will help. I keep looking for work but no bites yet.

Red Rock

[nancielle]

So sorry to hear this. How frustrating to have this happen again in such a short period of time. You appear to have a ton of marketable skills and hopefully you'll find something worthy of your time/talents soon.

[tctrek]

You will land on you feet! Reading your skills, you are well-rounded and could do a lot of things. Remember that the confident people get the jobs, so don't even THINK about being a loser.

Check this out: http://www.ehow.com/how_4546826_become-paid-undercover-shopper.html

I have a girlfriend who did this while she looked for work and it helped her to stretch her money longer. Your own hours. She gets paid for going to the movies, purchasing/returning merchandise, etc.

Beware - do not look at any offers where they ask you for money. The jobs my friend takes do not require her to put out any of her own money.

Just a thought.....

[short cut sally]

Dar so sorry to hear about your recent stretch of bad luck...things will be looking up soon..keep up the spirits. Best of luck

[runningteach]

I'm sorry. My fingers will be crossed that you find something soon. The economy is horrible.

[wildhawk]

Sorry to hear about your job loss - but as others have stated it is your positive attitude that will get you through this. I have many friends in the same boat, but they have changed careers and actually came out in a better, although no as well paid position. They are happier since the company we work for is a very high-stress demanding co. We had a layoff back in December and the writing is on the wall that they want young, fresh out of college, graphic designers who already know all the latest software, etc. I was told that I have six months to learn the new equipment and software or its bye-bye with no severance package. I have worked at this company for 19 years and been in the graphics industry for 30+ years, and kept up with the latest software too. The real reason is that I am now a liability as an older, overpaid worker. So while I am “training” to try and hold onto my job, I am also putting in some serious time with my lifelong dream to do fine art full time - I would suggest that you look at your skillsets and put your time and talents to work at home. I have two friends that turned ebay selling into a full time job - from their home. They go yard-sale hopping, picking up inexpensive items that they know the real value of, and turn around and sell them on ebay. So far they are doing great. Another friend is giving private piano lessons from his home. Best wishes to you - I know that you will be o.k.!

[papaver]

I hope you'll find a better job soon!;)

[mtbdarby]

Thanks you guys! I got a nice ride in yesterday to clear my head and spent today in the yard and flower bed. This week is all about me and riding/working out ending with a trip to door county with a group of friends and my son for the weekend (already planned and paid for).

The next week I will hit the ground running and I'll keep you posted. I really appreciate your words of encouragement and hugs - I really needed them! You ladies ROCK!:D

[jesvetmed]

Go get em! Hugs to all of you going through these hard times and looking for work. I have positive hopes for everyone!
Jes