What is Your Employment Situation?

[Scuba]

I was laid off 3 years ago after the company I worked for decided to outsource all of their IT staff. It's the second time in my life that has seen me in this position. Both times I decided to make big changes. The first time I switched careers. No regrets at all and I love what I do now. The second time I decided to relocated from the east coast to the west coast. I made it. I'm here. I love it!

During your time off do volunteer work. Employers LOVE this! It shows that you are filling your time constructively and not just sitting around waiting for something to fall in your lap. It also gets you out and networking with like minded folks who may be able to help you in finding a or securing a job. Study something new. Employers love, love, LOVE this too. There are ton of free online courses being offered by some pretty prestigious schools right now. MIT is offering a 600x series of IT classes that can earn you a certificate.

Being fearless is mandatory in times like these as is taking risks. Both times I jumped off that cliff I landed squarely on my feet. I know there are so many of you still unemployed. Hang in there and don't be afraid to set yourselves apart from all others. Go big or go home

Good luck!!

[not2shygrrl]

Well here it is almost 2 months after my initial post about being laid off and finally landed that job I was pursuing. So many delays due to both holidays and a vacation by the HR department!! I worked part time while waiting to get through the ropes but well worth it. My total independence is connected to this job, the fact that it pays good and has full benefits is a bonus! Accepting this position has me relocated back to Pennsylvania, near Harrisburg but it's all good. A beautiful part of Pa and very rural at times. This I can handle over the fast paced city attitudes. Feels wonderful to finally be settled! My cat agrees!

[imperfect_cupcake]

I am a full time massage student at college. So I have very little time for employment. I work at a clinic for free one day a week to apprentice along with my formal education and college table work. I do freelance massage for donation and I do other freelance in creative body work and sexual education/hostessing.
I also write erotic and fantasy adventure stories for individuals and glamour-fantasy modeling. These are very small bits and pieces. I can't work more than 8 hours a week, so my work has to have a high wage in order for me to survive and graduate. It is very intensive and exhausting work requiring a lot of skill, tolerance, creativity, education and empathy.

[Rolo]

I'm currently employed full time working with adults with developmental disabilities. I am a social service worker and never once thought about working in this sector but I love it. It is highly stressful with very few rewards. I've been doing this for 5 years now and could use a change. I would still like to work with the same population just maybe a different setting, but feel very stuck. I was very lucky to get this job straight out of school and scared to leave my security.

[MysticOceansFL]

I am retired but still get a check, I'm a full time student but at the moment this year taking a year long break.