Me-O, My-O, To Find a Job I Try-O

No Sick Days When You're Unemployed

2011-01-29T18:33:00.000-05:00

Yup, you guessed it. I'm sick. I have bronchitis and I feel miserable ... Coughing my fool head off, headache, and chills and sweats. BUT, there is no break from the unending job search cause you are sick. I've still got to check the job posting websites, submit my resume, and wait for the disappointment.

There are no sick days when you're looking for a job. If I'm not diligent about my search, then Unemployment doesn't have to pay me. Not that they are paying me anything now that I'm temping. But, I still have to file to keep my claim active, which means I still have to apply for jobs.

What a pain. I'd just like to sit home and veg for a change.

I had two telephone interviews this past week. Both positions were for Executive Assastant to senior level executives. Both jobs were over 30 minutes from my home and both commutes would be terrible...with traffic and stop and go on most days. The real problem, though, was the salary. They were paying what I was making 10 years ago.

Now, I'm a realist. I know that I may have to take a cut in pay from my previous salary. However, that big of a cut (over $10K) is bad enough alone. Then, when you add in the awful commute, it suddenly become not at all with it.

Not only am I physically sick today, but I am also emotionally sick and tired of looking for a job!!

It's been a while ...

2011-01-23T20:28:00.001-05:00

Yea, yea, yea ... I know it has been a while since I posted. Gimme a break. I had Christmas to get through then I spent a week in Vegas with my sister, cousin, friend, niece, and three other 21 year olds. We took my niece and three friends for my nieces 21st birthday. Then I had to spend a week regaining a bit of self esteem after spending a week in Las Vegas with four gorgeous 21 year old girls.

Hmm, my job search ... what's been happening lately. The engineering firm that I interviewed with twice decided they found a candidate who more closely matched their needs. Great two wasted 15 mile (each way) trips, plus the time involved in getting ready and going to the interviews.

The week before Christmas, I had an interview with a firm in our downtown area. I thought it went well. Actually, it went so well that the lady who interviewed me (I was going to replace her because she was leaving as of New Year's Eve, told me that I would receive a call during the first week of January to schedule a second interview. Yipee, a second interview, then I must have done very well.

Well, I didn't get a call -- what I got was an email. Yup, an email stating they the appreciate my interest in the position and that they would keep my resume on file for six months. As if I hadn't even come in for the interview. What's up with that? My guess, it was a family run company, so I'm thinking kiddie whined to Daddy that he/she wanted the job and was mad that it wasn't given to him/her. So, I'm out, kiddie in. OH HOW I DO HATE NEPOTISM.

I really can't stand when companies ignore you like you don't have feeling and if you do, they don't matter. Yes, local country club, I'm talking to you. You know who you are. I interviewed at a local country club. The interview went fairly well, I think. It wasn't a slam dunk, but I think I held my own. The guy told me that if I thought of any questions, that I should feel free to drop him a note. Well, I did think of two questions so I sent him an email. Then -- nothing. No response. It's been a week and Nada. I'm wondering where the courtesy is anymore. I mean, he didn't even have the decency to tell me that after the interview he didn't think it was a good fit. He simply ignored me. I guess I don't matter.

To be honest, I have been temping at a local community college. The money stinks though. It's less than half of what I was earning at my previous position and just slightly more than unemployment. After I factor in fuel costs, I think I'm earning exactly what unemployment pays. If I also factor in drive time, I'm probably earning less. So, I'm getting dressed, putting on make up, driving 12 miles each way, for nothing more than I could have earn staying home and collecting unemployment. Hmmm, does that make sense? I don't think so. So why am I doing it? Because I'm nuts. I say it is to keep my skills sharp, but in reality, it it because I'm crazy.

I don't think I mentioned that unemployment deducts my earning from the temp job from what I make on unemployment. So, now, I'm working 40 hours a week, plus spending several hours a day looking for a permanent job, and I'm earning the same amount as if I were sitting home just looking for a job.

I AM CRAZY.

One good thing, I got a iPad for Christmas. So now I can look for a job, write in my blog, surf the net, and play cards, all without leaving my bed. Laziness has found a new tool. I really do love this iPad. It's great. I wish I hadn't taken the temp job because then not only would I never had to get out of my pajamas, but now I'd never have to get out of bed.

Only four more weeks of temping and I'll be back to getting paid by unemployment to look for a job.

Take it from me, it doesn't pay to take temp work while on unemployment. Unemployment Insurance will punish you for trying to be productive while looking for a permanent position.

As I've said ... better me than you. And today, I've taught you a valuable lesson. Stay unemployed; it's easier. Oh and enjoy the iPad, it is the coolest, most expensive deck of cards you'll ever own!

Dec. 21st: 2nd Interview

2010-12-21T19:09:00.000-05:00

I had a second interview this morning and I think it went pretty well. They have another candidate they are seeing (for a second time) on Thursday afternoon, so I won't hear anything until next week. Bummer, I was really hoping to get a job for Christmas. Oh well, I guess I'll get another drop on my unemployment debit card for Christmas -- a job -- money on my card, I won't be greedy. I'll take what I can get.

If you didn't see yesterday's post, then you won't understand my frustration with this search process. I was so discouraged after learning that I won't know until next week whether I have a job or not, and especially after yesterday's search turned up a whole lotta nuttin, I just didn't search at all today. I wrapped gifts and watched Christmas movies all day.

Too bad that doesn't pay better. I've said, if searching for a job paid better, I do this for a living. Unfortunately, it doesn't so I can't.

I'll let you know tomorrow if there are any decent opportunities out there, although I doubt it. The closer to Christmas, the slimmer the pickins. Maybe after the 1st of the year. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, remember -- better me than you!!

Dec. 20th Another OMG Moment!

2010-12-20T19:17:00.000-05:00

Okay, okay! I haven't posted in a while. I do have a "second" interview tomorrow, so at least one company was impressed enough to call me back. Not my typical "thanks but no thanks" email response -- and that is even before they meet me. After the interview --- silence! I guess companies are afraid to contact a candidate because they might catch whatever disease the candidate has that have put them on unemployment.

HELLO FOLKS ... unemployment is not a contagious disease. Well, hmmm, maybe it is contagious. I mean, really, where there is one case you'll usually find five more ready to follow quickly.

Anyway, I digress. Even though I have a second interview scheduled, I still need to continue my active job search in order to keep my unemployment benefits flowing....well, they are more like a trickle, but I still want to get the payments. I can't even say check because you are paid on a "prepaid debit card" basis. As long as you file your continued claim, they drop a little money on your card and you can use it pay for things anywhere VISA is accepted. Cool, huh? Not so cool I want to keep on it for the long term, but for now, it's kinda nice. Actually, I had a nurse at my daughter's pediatricians office say how much she liked the picture on the card. So much better than the ugly card her bank had given her. I told her, "lose your job; it's the unemployment card." She quickly retracted the comment and said she liked it but not enough to get her own. Agreed!

So, while searching the job posting today, I came across this doosey. It is for a Director of Marketing. Director mind you. I believe that is a pretty high level position, usually above manager. So, I was intrigued and read the entire post.

Wow, this is great ... they want 10+ years experience, so the competition won't be so bad. Plus they want all kinds of marketing program knowledge, so I won't be up against all the college grads for this one. Cool.
So, here is the entire posting direct from Craigslist:

Due to tremendous and dynamic growth, EDGAR Online, Inc. is currently searching for a Director of Marketing/Communications. The ideal individual will possess a high level of energy, hands-on marketing and communications experience with at least 10 years of experience. This position is responsible for the execution of EDGAR Online marketing programs including online and traditional marketing campaigns, external presence including website, social media and sales collateral, and online and physical events. This position requires experience with both direct and partner marketing programs. The individual in this role will be responsible for the following:
* Develop and manage all external aspects of EDGAR Online brand - website, collateral, social media, campaigns and events
* Manage marketing activities with partners
* Develop and execute marketing programs and campaigns that drive awareness and revenue from conception through reporting and analysis
* Optimize campaign and program performance through continuous testing and monitoring
* Work closely with product groups to develop collateral and presentation materials
* Work closely with sales to define revenue-generating campaigns and programs
* Manage outside vendor relationships
* Work within defined budgets

Job Requirements:
The ideal candidate will possess the following background and skill-set: * 10+ years experience, preferably in one of the following areas: financial services; data products; or enterprise software
* Minimum Bachelor's degree or equivalent
* Experience in managing partner marketing programs
* Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
* Experience in online marketing including social media
* Experience working in collaborative sales processes and product development
* Experience managing a diverse set of vendors
* Collaborative nature, customer-service-oriented, can-do attitude, sense of both urgency and humor
* Comfort working across a diverse organization and on cross-disciplinary teams
* Ability to adapt to changing dynamics in the marketplace
* Proficiency in Microsoft suite, including Excel and Power Point
We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits including matching 401(k), medical, dental and life insurance, both short and long term disability, and many more.

AND NOW FOR THE OMG MOMENT YOU'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR ....

· Location: Baltimore

· Compensation: 12.50 hour

· Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.

· Please, no phone calls about this job!

· Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

THAT'S RIGHT $12.50 AN HOUR FOR 10+ YEARS EXPERIENCE! THAT'S A WHOPPING $1.25 AN HOUR FOR EACH YEAR OF EXPERIENCE -- IF YOU ONLY HAVE 10 YEARS. IF YOU HAVE 12-1/2 YEARS EXPERIENCE -- THAT'S $1 FOR EACH YEAR!!!!!

You'd be better of asking, "Do you want fries with that?" because it will be a lot less headaches and you won't be held responsible for sales fall.

Remember, as I always say, "better me that you" especially in this crazy job market. Yikes, $12.50- for 10 years experience, I can't hardly believe it. I actually read and reread the posting to make sure I wasn't seeing things. I looks like companies are using the economy as an excuse to rip off employees!

Alert!!! Company owners and hiring managers, just because the economy is bad doesn't mean that prospective employees don't need to make a decent living. PLEASE, PLEASE STOP TRYING TO GET SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. It is totally frustrating to those of us willing to put in an honest day's work. In exchange, we would like an honest day's pay. Not what you would pay the 14 year old down he street to babysit your dog while you go have an expensive dinner!!

Dec. 13: Another interview today

2010-12-13T09:57:00.000-05:00

It's terrible, I'm getting sick of interviewing. I think today is my 7th and I'm always "the first candidate." These companies need to screen the remaining prospective employees to determine who they want to bring back for a second interview. Unfortunately for me, that means I'm long forgotten once they complete round 1. I haven't had a since call back. Most, just seem to drop off the face of the earth. I either call or send a follow-up email and don't hear anything back. When I do, I'm just told, "we are still finishing our interviews and will need to decided who we are bringing back."

Yikes. Gas so so expensive now to trek all around town, only to be forgotten as soon as I walk out the door. Jeeze, I'm wearing my nice interview outfit, i.e. skirt, blouse, jacket, heels. Come on folks, I'm putting on hose and heels for goodness sake. Doesn't that count for something??? Plus, my sore arm as healed, so I don't have to wear my sandals anymore. I'm betting that made quite an impression. At least now I can move my right arm.

What does a prospective employee have to do to make a positive impression, cartwheels? Well, 20 years ago - maybe, but still never in a skirt and heels.

Oh well, I'm off to make myself presentable then out the door I go. Wish me luck and remember .. better me than you.

Fri., Dec. 10: Waiting is the hardest part ...

2010-12-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

I had an interview yesterday morning. The job is perfect for me ... mostly administrative work with some marketing communications and desktop publishing thrown in for fun! Perfect. Except we are worlds apart on the salary ... exactly $10 per hour apart. I don't know why companies think they can get years of experience and expertise for peanuts? I just don't get it. You want to pay little money, then you get little experience and skill. You want extensive experience and skills, you have to pony up the money.

They old saying, "nothing in life comes free," applies to employees as well. "HELLO" people. If you want skills and experience, you have to pay for it!!!! Wake up and smell the coffee ... it's the high test stuff, too. Not the wimpy decaf ... let's get real here.

I have another interview scheduled for Monday afternoon. I hope it goes well and I hope we are on the same page as far as money is concerned. I was always taught that as a candidate, you don't bring up the monetary issue; you let the company's hiring manager bring that up. Well, I'm not so sure that is the right decision. I'm running myself all over town only to find out that I am miles apart on the salary issue. Wouldn't it be better for all concerned if we discussed that subject first so neither party wastes it's time?

And actually, speaking of Monday's interview ... I need to be upfront an honest, this company responded to my application by email. It was later in the evening when, I guess, the recruiter was reviewing resumes and he sent me an email asking when I would be available to interview. No credit check required, no click on the following link. Just a message from a real person. Wow! I can hardly believe it myself. In many prior posts, I warned you that if you receive an email in response to your application, it's probably a scam. Well, this time, I was wrong; and I'm glad to be wrong in this case. Now I have another interview.

But, please be wary of email responses to your application. I received at least 20 scam responses and only one legit. So, the odds aren't in your favor.

Anyway, have a great weekend and remember ... better me than you!

Dec. 8: Imagine that ...

2010-12-08T20:59:00.000-05:00

Last week, I responded to an employment ad and received an email message about being qualified, but I had to bring my driver's license and a current credit score with me to any interview that was scheduled. As usual, I could simply "click on the link" to get a current credit score. Instead, I responded by email stating that I had a current credit score through my bank so I was all prepared for my interview. I received a second email inquiring whether I was certain that I had all required information. I assured the "potential employer" that I did have everything required and I was anxious to schedule the interview.

Well, imagine that ... no response to my second message. I guess there is no real job available. Only the opportunity to get suckered into giving out your personal information. As I've stated before, if someone responds to your application by email -- LOOK OUT! It is probably a scam.

As for my current job prospects, um, nothing. Last week I received two rejects. One to a telephone interview and the second was to an application I submitted to a local hospital. Both said I had excellent experience, but they found a candidate with a better fit. I've also been applying for civilian jobs with the military. I checked the status of those as well. I put in four applications, three were not even submitted to the recruiter because my experience didn't match those needed for the positions, the fourth was under review.

It is so hard to determine whether I qualify for a military/civilian job. They call everything by different names and they have a particular grade/pay structure that I can't seem to get a good grasp of. I thought I was only applying for things that met my qualifications and experience. Jeeze, what a pain! I'm no rocket scientist but I darn near have to be just to weed through all the military positions.

I have an interview tomorrow. Wish me luck!!! And remember, better me than you!

Dec. 2: Ready for a interview

2010-12-03T08:09:00.000-05:00

Today I had a telephone interview and it seemed to go pretty well. I won't get my hopes up though, because I thought the two (2) prior face-to-face interviews went well, but I never head back from either. My one (1) other telephone interview went great, but again I never heard back from the organization.

I'm hoping this is typical and not exclusive to me. It is sort of disheartening to feel that you have put your best foot foward and then all you get is your foot crushed under the wheels of a dump truck.

I'm beginning to wonder what is wrong with me. It may be my appearance, but that doesn't account for the telephone interviewers dismissing me. Maybe its my voice? I don't know, but I certainly can't change my voice, at least not for the long term.

Yesterday, I received another email response to a resume I submitted. They were, of course asking me to get certain information ready before I could be interviewed:

1) Driver's license
2) Credit report (click link)
3) A printed resume (if I have it available)

Now, I submitted my resume to this supposed "company" via email, so he should not that I have a copy. The opportunity looked legit; it was or an Administrative Assistant and it spelled out certain duties and responsibilities for which I am qualified.

This time, instead of hitting the delete button, I responded to the guy telling him that I have all the information he requested. I mentioned that I have monthly credit monitoring through my bank, so I already have a copy of my credit report.

His response to me ... are you sure you have all the information required? I am about to respond back assuring him that I have all the information necessary to be invited for an interview. We'll see what the "next step" is? I was actually surprised that he responded at all.

I'll let you know what comes of it (like I expect anything to come of it.)

Dec. 1: Have I got an opportunity 4 U ...

2010-12-01T10:58:00.004-05:00

Yes folks, this is a great opportunity for an experienced Marketing Specialist. Remember, this is a "specialist" not an entry level position. This organization wants the moon and the stars from their candidates. Below are the highlights of the posting from Craigslist.

Marketing Specialist (Baltimore, MD 21220)

Date: 2010-11-30, 1:29PM EST

Marketing Specialist Position (30 hours a week)
Responsibilities:
Providing strategic marketing support to the Marketing and Sales Teams
Expanding lead generation, branding and awareness
Search engine optimizations
Event management, promoting and planning for trade shows and events
Designing and implementing classical marketing projects
Managing layout and design of communications according to branding guidelines such as presentations, newsletters, event support materials, research papers and brochures
Assisting with market and policy research
Assisting marketing management with advertising materials and communication

Qualifications:
Experience with or are eager to learn about event management, project management, integrated campaign management, marketing operations, database management, and collateral library management
Comfortable with social media outlets and related content and messaging creation
Excellent analytical and presentation skills including demonstrated ability to handle many assignments and tasks simultaneously
Exhibit creativity and resourcefulness
Exceptional communication skills
A bonus, Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) · Location: Baltimore, MD

AND NOW FOR THE REAL KICKER ...

Compensation: $10 per Hour

· Yes, you read that right ... 10 bucks an hour for an educated, experienced marketing specialist with proven experience and tons of software knowledge. Please tell me ... have I gone into the time machine and wound up in 1960???

Can you believe this?? They want someone who can design marketing programs, plan and execute events, and perform market research and analysis for $10 an hour.

As I've said repeatedly ... gimme a break people - get a clue. This is 2010 we are talking about. An education alone costs $200,000. At $10 an hour, the employee will be dead before he/she has earned enough to recoup their investment in education.

Okay, let's get real here. That much experience and expertise should pay no less than $20 per hour and probably more because of the extensive knowledge base the organization is requiring.

For all you marketing majors out there ... good luck. If this is what I'm finding, you've got a long road ahead of you.

Oh well, better me than you!!

Nov. 29: Wow, I got a response

2010-11-29T22:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, I must have put in a dozen resumes and I received only one response. Guess who it was from? Hmmm, an identify thief is my guess. My qualifications sound more than ample for the position. However, in order to schedule an interview, they must have a current (no more than 14 days old) credit score. All I had to do was "click here" and submit my information and I will be forwarded my current credit score. They even included an long explanation of what paperwork I would receive with my credit score and which pages I needed to return. You see, they don't need all of the pages, only the one with the credit score on it.

Now, doesn't that sound just peachy? I mean, what could go wrong. Putting all my personal information online for identity thieves isn't enough, now they want me to scan and return certain pages. I guess to ensure that they have all the pertinent information to steal my identity. We certainly don't want to leave any stone unturned in our quest to open credit card is someone else's name now do we?

Really, couldn't a legit business respond? Hint to all you job seekers out there ... if a future employer responds to you via email, my guess -- hoax? Don't even bother responding. They are just out to get your personal information.

As for legit responses, they are few and far between. I haven't heard back from the two (2) places I interviewed three (3) weeks ago. Guess, even though I thought it went well, it didn't go good enough.

Wish me luck and keep following my ventures ... remember ... better me than you!

Nov. 24th: Yippe!!!

2010-11-24T18:28:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is Turkey Day!! Yippee, I love turkey, and stuffing, and mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie, and everything about have the family get together to celebrate Thanksgiving!

Plus, I just got a call for an informal interview next week. This is a preliminary interview to tell me more about the company and the position. An actual brick and mortar business with an office and not just a phony website. Another big yippee for me!!

So, as I'm thanking the good Lord for all I have in my life (sans the no job thing), I'll also be thanking him for getting an interview lined up for me. It's been 2 weeks since the first two interviews and I haven't heard from either place. I was just beginning to lose hope, again!

Of course, I did get the obligatory phone call from one college and one "company" who wanted me to pay $300 for their online make money scheme. This was a little different from PPD in that they set up a web site for you and got you hooked up with search engines. Then, all you have to do it wait for folks to search, find your site, and you direct them to Amazon.com or Ebay. Once they purchase, I make money. What could go wrong here? Hmmm ... I'm outta work and you want me to pay how much to set up a website?? I know plenty of computer geeks who can do that for me for a whole lot less money.

I'm also thankful that I have enough sense (and family with good sense) that I didn't fall for it. It really did sound real, easy, and profitable. But, the more I think about it, the less "real" it began to sound. Shew, that was a close one.

I did, however, open a shop on Etsy.com where I feature handmade jewelry items. Please, I'm out of work, so please visit my sight and make a purchase. All items are less than $20 + shipping. These are great, inexpensive holiday gifts. Thanks! http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadandbaublejewlery?ref=pr_profile

Wish me luck and please help me out with an order or two. I'll be posting more items and these sell. Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving!

Nov. 23: Almost Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T11:53:00.000-05:00

Yippee! It's almost Thanksgiving. It gives me something to think about besides being out of work. I've hardly put in any applications the past few days because there is nothing new on the job boards. The email from scammers have slowed down also.

The big thing this week, all the job boards who want me to join their "exclusive" clubs. These are "pay" services and say they offer all sorts of job you won't find on other job boards. The problem, is the pay part. Jeeze folks, I'm out of work. What part of unemployed/no income are you not getting. If I had the money to join your job board, then I probably wouldn't be desperately looking for a job.

Some people/companies just don't get it. Out of work means, "I don't have a job to pay for your stupid service!" Gimme a break. "Kick 'em when they're down!" must be the motto of these organizations.

Of course, I can get the 7 days "free trial" but I have to give a credit card and remember to cancel before the seventh day. I've thought about this, but what if something happens and I forget to cancel, then I'm stuck with a $25 (or up) card on my credit card. Like I can afford that.

I guess I just have to stick with the freebie boards and hope something comes along.

Scam offers, college offers, continuing ed offers, pay for job listing offers ... All sorts of offer in my email, but no real job offers -- not even a request for an interview.

Looks like I got a long road ahead of me. Wish me luck and remember, better me than you!

2010-11-21T19:39:00.001-05:00

Why Work?

2010-11-21T02:05:00.000-05:00

Finding a job is a full-time job. I'm wondering why I want to go back to work at all. I mean, really. It's great for the old ego to submit applications and resumes all over town only to either hear nothing or to find out the the place you were applying was a complete scam!!

I've sent in at least 3 dozen applications/resumes and received 3 calls and had 2 interview. Then. complete silence. You've all heard, I'm sure, of the song "Silent Night." Well for me, baby, it's "Silent Life." Silence may be golden, but it is also painful.

Actually, for me it is literally painful. I have tinnitus (ringing in the ears) so when I'm sitting here at the desk searching for jobs, if I'm not plunking away at the keyboard, I hear this high pitched ringing in my ears. So yeah, it is kinda painful.

Oh well, you know my motto, better me than you!!

I've ranted quite a bit about all the scam job stuff out there on the net. Well, I'm changing today's topic a bit. It's not quite the job scams, today's topic is how fast the on line colleges get your email address and even phone number. I must get at least 4 messages in my in box and countless numbers in my spam box of colleges asking me if I've thought about furthering my education to increase my marketability. These college are even so bold as to call me. Wow, you give your email address and phone number to one job search sight hoping it will make you more accessible for legit employers to get a hold of you and all the colleges get a hold of it and whamo, you're on their hit list.

Don't they realize that if I had enough money to increase my education, I wouldn't be looking for a job. Working full time and going to school is rough. I should know, I did it for five years. Yep, 5 years!

These people are nuts if they think that at 45 years old, I have the energy to work full time, take care of my family, and go to school. These college recruiters need to have their collective heads examined.

Besides that, I'm out of work. How in the heck do you expect me to pay for it??? Hey on line colleges, if you're giving away full scholarships to middle-aged, unemployed women, count me in. However, if I don't get a free ride, then forget it. I need to work to earn money for my family, not spend $30K while working myself half to death at a paying job and then having the other half killed off by school work.

Gimme a break. All you Internet recruiters ... get a clue. We work for a living because we need the income, not because we love waking up at 6:00 AM, going to work, and being under appreciated on a daily basis.

Another OMG Moment!!!

2010-11-18T21:06:00.000-05:00

Now that I've scoped out Project PayDay (PPD) for you (and saved you an hours worth of aggravation), my inbox is flooded with PPD emails. They want to know why I haven't logged in lately, how I like the program, etc. etc. LEAVE ME ALONE. OMG!!! I think, could they be, yes I do believe they are worse than AFLAC. I almost can't believe it myself. Before yesterday, I thought AFLAC was the biggest pain with their emails. Nope, PPD has them beat!!

Do yourself a favor, stay away from PPD (or any other of these types of programs). You'll get nowhere but buried in email junk!

I've gotta get out of this chair. Searching the net for a job is getting to be a literal pain in the butt. I've been sitting for so long, I think my tushey is numb. Oh Lord, how long do I have to do this before my penance is paid?

C U L8R - Gotta go restore the circulation!

I'm sick of job hunting ....

2010-11-17T21:23:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. It's only been 3 weeks. but jeeze, I'm so tired of looking for a job, only to either find no decent opportunities -- or to find a great opportunity, submit my application and wait, and wait, and wait, and never get a response.

Let's rethink this. I have actually gotten several responses. The Internet phishing schemes are getting pretty sophisticated these days. I have responded to several Executive Assistant and Administrative Assistant type positions over the past 3 weeks. I have received at least 5 email responses to my applications. Each states that I seem to be more than qualified for the position. However, before an interview can be arranged, the organization must have my credit score. I can simply "click here" and I can get instant access to my credit score and thus an interview. Hmmmm, no problem, I'll give you all my personal information before you even meet me. Naaa, I don't see anything wrong with that, do you?

I guess these schemers think I'm stupid. Of course I'm not going to "click here" and turn over all my personal information to you. YES, I do want a job, but no so bad that I've completely lost my mind.

The ads seem so real; they listed realistic qualifications. I guess I may not be totally stupid, but I'm dumb enough to fall for the phony ads. So, BEWARE ... if a company responds to your application via email (instead of a direct phone call) it is probably a phishing expedition. Don't fall for it. Have steak that night instead.

Between the "work at home" scams, and the phony job responses, I can't even sort through my email in box. I wish I had set up a separate email box for my job search so all the junk would go into one place where I could successfully ignore it until I have the patience to sort through it all.

I hate having to weed through all the garbage to get to the email from my friend/s and family. Of course, when I finally do get to those real messages, they are usually "forwards." As if I don't have enough to worry about, now I have to forward the urgent email to 10 people within 10 minutes or my life will be ruined. Sure, everything were so great now, what with being unemployed and all, that I can't let an email could ruin it. Oh no, maybe if I fail to forward the message I will lose my job! Oh wait, my company already took care of that for me.

Actually, I shouldn't complain about being unemployed. Last week I baked cookies and muffins (like a real Martha Stewart)! Today, I took some of the Christmas Club money and started shopping. Problem, is, when I don't have money, I always find all stuff I want for me. Today was no exception. Why do the stores wait until I'm broke to put all the good stuff on sale. And how do they know when I'm broke? Are the tapped into my bank account?? Hey, BofA, dont' let the department stores see my account balance! A little privacy, please????

And now to JC Penney & Macy's: if and when my bank balance increases, please put more stuff on sales, okay? You keep the good stuff (in my size) on sale and I'll spend some $$$. Deal?

Nov. 16: I've saved you an hour

2010-11-16T22:48:00.000-05:00

Today I decided to follow one of those email leads to work at home and make extra money. I knew it was going to be a scam, but I thought I'd save you the trouble of having to check it for yourself.

Today's scam was Project Payday. I got an email link, which I followed. You either could pay $40 for the training kit, or take one of their partner's offers and get the training kit for free. I took an offer to get a $50 restaurant gift card for $20 and then get the training kit for free. Let's hope I can actually use the restaurant gift card and that it is bogus. I'll let you know once I try to use it.

Basically, you are linked to your "mentors" account. The mentor directs you to other partner's links. You need to collect 100 points at a time by participating in the appropriate offers until you get to 100 points. Each offer is worth a different point level. Some of the offers are "free" offers, like applying for and being accepted for a credit card, getting a free online credit report (which refuse to do because you have to give up your SSN online -- and to me, that spells trouble), etc. There are other offers like joining book or video clubs, shopping and purchasing (minimum purchase required) from partners, online trial memberships, etc.

Once you have accumulated your 100 points, you get $50.00. Now, to be honest, some of the offers are for trail memberships, which you can cancel anytime before the trail is over and not be charged. However, it is considered fraud if you sign up for the trail and cancel right away, as you must "try" the service. Here again, I'm not thrilled with putting my credit card number all over the Internet with all these "partner" companies. Maybe if I get a new credit card for this purpose only - with a very low limit, I'd be more inclined to participate.

This can be done over and over, all day long, so that you can accumulate a lot of payments from your mentor. That being said, I don't have a job, therefore, I certainly don't want to ask for any new credit cards, I'm certainly not getting a credit report online and exposing my personal information to all the Internet thieves, and I'm out of work, so why would I commit to minimum purchases anywhere from $25 - $100 with partners? Just to make $50??

HELLO! I don't have income, that is why I'm looking to make extra money. I would ask Project Payday if I look like a fool, or if I look like I was born yesterday, however that is the magic of the Internet, they can't see me (nor can I see them).

So, I guess I'm not getting rich by clicking on online offers. This could be legit, however, I'm much to skeptical to expose myself to this type of fraud waiting to happen.

Lesson for today: Project Payday -- Project No Way!

Nov. 15: Unemployment Top 10

2010-11-15T15:30:00.001-05:00

Okay, you all know what I've been doing for the past three (3) weeks. I don't need to go over it again...Craigslist, Indeed, Monster, Careerbuilder, etc. etc. I thought I would take today's post in a different direction.

The TOP 10 REASONS BEING UNEMPLOYED IS BETTER THAN WORKING FOR A LIVING:

10. No alarm clock necessary. Job postings are on the Internet 24/7 (so you never get a day off)

9. You are home all day to tell the annoying telemarketers you don't have any money to spend on their product.

8. You get to watch OPRAH!

7. Daytime dramas are even juicer than you remember.

6. You never have to get out of your pajamas.

7. Because of number 6, your laundry is much lighter.

5. If it snows, you don't have to worry about how you are getting to, or home from, work.

4. Did I mention Oprah!

3. Your house is finally quiet and you get to be home to enjoy it.

2. You family and friends take pity on you and buy you lunch now and then.

And the number 1 reason by being unemployed is better than working for a living ....

1. Your purse (or wallet) isn't weighed down by all that pesky money!!!

Sunday, Nov. 14th: Bad to Worse!!!

2010-11-14T17:27:00.000-05:00

You know, if it's not bad enough that I lost my job, I just found out that my former employer will NOT write a reference letter for me. Apparently the corp. lawyer, said that all personnel issues must go through HR, therefore, they aren't allowed to write letters of reference. Oh great, as if it's not hard enough to get a job these days, not I have to tell prospective employers that my coworkers and supervisors won't vouch for my work ethic. Great! That'll go over like a lead balloon. There is so much competition out there that you need whatever advantage you can get. Now, the company that laid me off is putting me at a serious disadvantage. What? Do they want me stay unemployed forever? Apparently so. If unemployment (or job searching) paid better, maybe I would. I mean, it is there unemployment insurance rates that will suffer, not mine. What a pain in the "you know what!"

Well, I keep getting email messages from The Amazing Kreskin. Maybe he can use him mind power to influence my former employer and I'll get the reference letter after all. Or, better yet, maybe he can use his mind in influence the lottery number and I'll become a millionaire. Yeah, I like option #2 better. I'm going for that one, just as soon as I calm down.

Well, just discovered that not allowing employees to write reference letters, or even give verbal reference, is not uncommon today. Too bad for me and other employees trying to find work. How is a future employer supposed to know your work ethic? Oh, of course, I'm supposed to tell him/her and I'm sure they'll believe me because I'm such an honest person. I mean, when applying for a new job, who would ever admit to being a bad employee? Everyone is always honest and 100% above board with prospective employers, and themselves for that matter.

Oh brother -- things have certainly changed in the past five (5) years since I found my last job. I'm beginning to realize I'm more of a dinosaur than I thought. 45 and so out of touch. Jeeze, my daughter way right, I AM OLD!!! Help me -- I am my mother -- old, out dated, and out of touch. Oh no, what should I do????

Nov. 13: It's Saturday and Take a Wild Guess at What I've Been Doing?

2010-11-13T16:55:00.000-05:00

Yup, searching the net. Got a great offer in my "spam" box this morning from a company who saw my resume on Careerbuilder. $85,000 - $95,000 a year, no sales, no cold calls, etc. Funny thing though, they didn't name the company, nor did leave a way to contact them. So, even if I was interested, I had no way to respond and tell them to sign me up. Too bad, I sure could use $85K right about now. As for legit messages from employers ... zip, none, nada. I wish I had set up a new email box for the job search. Its been 5 years since I was looking and I didn't realize how much junk a resume on the net would produce. Well ... if I ever find a job (and subsequently decide to leave it, which is highly unlikely after this experience), I know better.

Well, I actually found an opening I was interested in applying for. It was legit, a real company with a real location. "Go for it!" I told myself. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. It took over an hour to fill out all the "pages" of information they required. It was incredible. My sister was here working on the other computer and she couldn't believe how long it took me to get through this application process. We decided it was designed to weed out the "casual" lookers and that only "serious" candidates would take that much time to complete the process. My fingertips are numb from all the typing and clicking necessary to complete the application process. And, to top it off ... as I told my sister, I probably won't even receive an acknowledgement of my application, let alone an interview or job offer.

Too bad I can't get paid by the hour to search for work. It's a beautiful Saturday afternoon and I've been stuck on the computer since 7:30 this morning. I'm going to start to prune up soon if I don't get away from this desk. I'm just so afraid if I walk away from the computer, I'll miss the opportunity of a lifetime. At this point, sleep is the opportunity of a lifetime.

I'm getting obsessed with this blogging stuff. I keep checking my "stats" to see if I'm getting more viewers. Naaaa, not really. What do I have to do get get more readers?? Probably the same thing I have to do to get a job. Pray for a miracle.

I've now spent 9 hours looking for a job on the Internet and all I have to show for it are some tired fingers and crossed eyes. I didn't even get the laundry done today. Oh well Scarlet, "tomorrow is another day."

Nov. 12: Day 15 ....

2010-11-12T16:57:00.000-05:00

Day 15 - 37 Applications - 2 Interviews - No further contact -- and a partridge in a pear tree ....

It is very uncomfortable to type today. Why, you ask? Its a long story and doesn't directly relate to my job search. Okay, okay. I'll tell you. Jeeze, if you really want to know so badly, sit back and enjoy my pain.

You know that I've been unemployed for 2+ weeks now. I'm starting to feel a little blue and I'm doubting myself and my worth as an employee. So, while visiting the local drug store, I was looking at all the beautiful nail polish wondering if I'll ever have the need for getting my nails all painted up "perty" again. So, in a moment of weakness I was drawn to a pretty, pink, flower shaped pumice. It said it contained special cleansers, botanicals, tea tree oil, etc. to give you "smooth, soft, sexy feet." Okay, okay; I know that I for one have never looked at a man's feet and thought, "Wow, those are some awesome feet; I've gotta go meet that guy." and I'm fairly certain that no one has ever looked and my feet and thought, "Oh baby, those are some sexy peds." But anyway, I purchased the buffer.

As I was bringing out the sexy in my feet, the thought never crossed my mind that cleansers become slippery when wet. So, as I was sliding around the tub, I tried to grab hold of something. Hmmm, the shower wall should do. Nope, it is even more slippery than my feet. Ouch!!! So now, I have beautiful, sexy feet - but my right arm hurts like crazy.

If I get called for any interviews in the coming days, I'll have to wear my strappy little summer sandals to show off my gorgeous feet, even if it is only 50 degrees (or less) outside. I'll need something to draw attention away from the fact that I can hardly move my right arm. A sling is out of the question on an interview, so I figure showing off my beautiful, soft, smooth, sexy feet should do the trick! Right?

Now back to the subject at hand -- my job search ... I'm LinkedIn, I tweet, I'm on Facebook, now I blog. I'm a 21st century girl -- all high-tech and everything. Maybe?? While I was breaking my neck in the shower, I got to thinking about the 4 or 5 job boards I visit on a daily basis, you know ... Careerbuilder, Indeed, Monster, Craigslist, and Fins. If my computer were a telephone, these sites would be on speed dial. Now I'm showing my age. Speed dial ... can you believe that speed dial is outdated. Now it's all voice activated calling, Bluetooth enabled, txt compatible with Qwerty keyboard. You know, when I got my cell phone a year ago (with text capability for the first time), I had to ask the sales guy what in the heck a Qwerty keyboard was. He looked at me in amazement and said you know, " 'Q - W - E - R - T - Y' like the top line of a keyboard." Holy Cow, I was an Executive Assistant and had been typing since Jr. High School and I never knew the typewriter keypad (or computer keyboard) was a Qwerty keyboard.

I hate being old. And I hate it even more when adults look at me like I'm some kind of archaeological find that was just dug up from the dinosaur age. I'm only 45. I can't retire yet. Just because I didn't know what a Qwerty keyboard was doesn't mean I should go back under the rock I just crawled out from, does it?

So, am I actually going to look for a job today. It's Friday - TGIF and all that. You know, when you're employed Friday means the end of the work week. Yipee!! When you're unemployed, Friday just means another day to check all the websites...again!

I can't believe I don't have a job already. Everyday I get emails promising me Government Jobs, Work at Home jobs, flexible local jobs, etc. I've actually opened up one or two of these messages. You have click on a whole bunch of ads, give them all your personal information, and I think promise your first born or several pints of blood, or maybe your bank account number, something crazy like that. After all that, you still don't get to the site promising those great government or work at home jobs. Maybe one day next week, I'll actually follow one of those links and see how long it takes and how many pages I have to sift through before I get to the actual job postings. As of today, I just haven't had the patience for that.

Guess I'm too picky ... I want the jobs to come too easily. I don't want to have to sort though all the college ads, nor the face cream, or enhancements, or whatever it is they're peddling. I must be too lazy. Mom was right. I expect everything to come to me too easily. "Okay, Mom. This is for you. 'You were right.' " Ouch, that pains me to say that out loud almost as much as my right arm.

Nov. 11: OMG

2010-11-11T11:18:00.000-05:00

I sit here staring at the computer screen. I've been staring so long that the letters and images begin to run together and swirl before my eyes. I think I'm slipping into unemployment madness (or at least despair). I try to walk away from the computer and lay down for a few minutes ... but it beacons me back. "Come back," I hear it calling to me, "Come back. What if a potential employer is posting a new job right now? What if she/he has sent you an email and is anxiously waiting for a response?" I try to ignore the voice, but it keeps calling me, "Get your lazy self out of bed and get in here and get back to the work at hand! Finding a job!"

So, I listen to the voice. I don't know why; I just obey ... just in case. But alas, no potential employer is seeking me at this very moment. Well that's not quite true. I received breaking news in my email box ... see for yourself.

Breaking News: Single Mom Makes-$1457 in a week!!

I better get off the blog and look into this, I might be missing the perfect opportunity to ditch the corporate life and work from home .....

Here's another one I just received today ... Nigerian counsel wants me to help her get money into the US. She will pay me handsomely to assist. Jeeze, another great opportunity. Better go check it out B4 someone else takes my place and I lose the millions she is willing to pay me.

And lets not forget about AFLAC ... on Monday, I must have gotten a dozen emails from various local AFLAC offices stating they found my resume on Careerbuilder and that I was perfectly suited to their business needs. Now, in my prior function, I was tasked with screening telephone calls to be sure that pesky sales people didn't get through to the execs. AFLAC was one of those calls that we always made sure NEVER got through. I don't honestly know how it works, but sometimes, we would get 3 or 4 calls a day from various individuals with AFALC. There must be dozens of local sales people all sharing the same list of leads. I often found myself stating, "I'm so glad I don't have to make cold calls like that for a living." Now look at me ... no job, AFLAC inundating my email box to get me to become a sales person.

Please, oh please, Lord, don't let it come to that. I'd be humiliated to have to eat my words with such a large spoon. Take pity on me...

C U L8R

Nov. 11th: Holy Cow!

2010-11-11T10:20:00.000-05:00

I just searched the web again and found an opening for a "Marketing Specialist." Specialist, mind you, with a pay rate of $10/hour. What kind of "specialist" works for that? Would that be a "specialist" with no experience? If you have no experience than can you really call yourself a "specialist?"

Yikes... I might as well go be a greeter at the Ugly-W (my nickname for Wal-Mart) if I'm going to have to work as a "specialist" for 10 bucks an hour. At least at the Ug, I'd probably get a discount on purchases.

What a crock!

Nov. 11: 2 weeks since lay-off

2010-11-11T09:01:00.000-05:00

I just spent the past 90 minutes searching various job boards and found a whopping 2 opportunities to apply for. If only I was willing to make $350 a day completing surveys. These opportunities fill my inbox since I posted my resume at Careerbuilder. I actually do a search for many of these inbox opportunities and find that none of them are legit. I think I need a traffic cop for my email to help move the junk aside and leave the 1 or 2 real messages in place. I spend as much time weeding through the junk as I do searching the job boards.

I guess I should be glad I have plenty of time for this search. Searching for a job is a full-time in and of itself. Only problem with this new full-time job, the pay stinks!

I have gotten pretty savvy an google/bing search engines, though. I just wish that the real opportunities found there way to me instead of me having to search hours each day for them.

Why can't it be that easy? I am a good/nice person ... why do the schemers always try to sucker us into there little schemes? At least I'm no gullible enough to fall for them ... yet. Lord give me the insight not to get pulled into any crazy schemes. Thank you.

November 10th: Still looking ...

2010-11-10T18:47:00.000-05:00

I had 2 interviews yesterday. One company I submitted my resume to on Monday and the second actually found my resume on Careerbuilder. That is the first time I've ever been approached about taking a job. It really felt good.

Both interviews seemed to go well, but I'm waiting to hear if I'll be called for second interviews. Waiting stinks! I'm trying to be optimistic, but it is hard. Every morning I scour the employment sites and become discouraged when I see that most of the companies out there want senior level experience but only want to pay entry level salaries.

Are they serious? $10 - $12 per hour for someone with extensive MS Office experience, multi-tasker, able to handle confidential information, 4 year degree a must, higher degree desirable. Who are these people and what planet are they from? $10-$12/hr doesn't get any degree let alone a degree plus experience. There are so many scams out there on the internet and the legit companies are also tryng to scam the labor force. It's awful to try to weed through all the junk to find the one gem.

I HATE JOB HUNTING!!