I've been looking for work since July when I got laid off a job and before then I'd been looking for work after caretaking for terminally Ill parent for 6 months.

14 Comments

1. AnonymousDecember 17,2024 at 2:53PM UTC

   Have you tried temporary agencies as a last resort? They can place you at jobs if your skills and qualifications match.

2. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 4:46PM UTC

   Yes but they so far it's been like sending a resume to a Black hole

3. AnonymousDecember 19,2024 at 3:25AM UTC

   networking, family friends, any real human connection in person or remote is worth the investment daily ! How is this working for you ?

4. AnonymousDecember 17,2024 at 3:10PM UTC

   First, please don't jump out of a window! In the interim, consider teaching. That's what I did when I found myself in your exact same situation.

   Communications makes you an amazing hire for so many different industries. After being a caregiver for my mother, I went from communications - a news producer at international media companies - to education and then transitioned to corporate training.

   Same skill set - strong interpersonal skills, comfort speaking in front of large crowds, research, and stacking. Would love to chat if you'd like to.

5. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 4:45PM UTC

   I thought so too. I have sooo many transferable skills. But I'm looking into selling some writing and templates and yes Sub teaching and ESL. Thank you ALL I appreciate your help . I don't feel so alone anymore today

6. Anne KrookDecember 17,2024 at 5:07PM UTC

   Find any job to get some money coming in and boost your confidence -- retail at Home Depot. The suggestion for teaching is a good one; if you can sign up as a substitute you can work selected says when you don't have interviews and see which schools you like better (also, larger school districts have a PR person; maybe you can ask to shadow that person for a day and see if that might be good work for you?)

7. AnonymousDecember 17,2024 at 9:39PM UTC

   I'm in the same boat, looking since August. Nothing from retail even though they're desperate. Nothing from the temp agencies. Nothing from the school district. Basically if I don't get a job by Christmas there won't be a next year.

8. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 8:33PM UTC

   Take a look at the Occupational Outlook handbook. It is a great resource to figure out your next journey. I just sent this link out but start here and work your way backwards in it. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/home.htm

9. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 5:46AM UTC

   Not just anyone can be a substitute teacher. You need to be a teacher even though my teacher friends who substitute say they are little more than babysitters

10. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 1:26PM UTC

    I started a new career as a DSP ( "Direct Support Professional") working at a small group home for people with developmental disabilities. I work for a non-profit, and they paid for my background check (including fingerprints), first-aid training, state-mandated training, state food handler's card, and on-the-job training. I was a legal professional for decades, then taught English online for 8 years, but this work is truly my most rewarding. I'm not making the amount of money I was 20 years ago during my legal career, but I started out at $20 hourly last year, and now make $22, without the stress that came with my former career.

11. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 1:40PM UTC

    First of all, don’t jump out the window. I feel you and I am with you. Everyday is a struggle for me as well.

    You are not alone in this fight for jobs. I wasn’t picked for a job because I was overqualified. Damn if you do damn if you don’t. You are not alone.

12. AnonymousDecember 18,2024 at 8:30PM UTC

    I'm so sorry for the hardship you endured taking care of an ill family member. Been there too. Maybe you could turn that wonderful empathy you have into helping others, like at an assisted living facility. A relative is an activity director and loves it. Sometimes turning personal experience into a rewarding career is a thoughtful approach. Your experience sounds broad so I'm not sure how that translates into different careers. First, don't jump anywhere, stay grounded, keep talking with others, and consider looking at the Occupational Outlook handbook. This tool can help you plug in your skills, or sectors that may trigger or initiate an idea for a different career. Start here and then work your way backwards. There is also an assessment tool in there. I recommend it a lot to people here. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/home.htm

    https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/home.htm

13. AnonymousDecember 19,2024 at 3:19AM UTC

    I see you and yes same experience 2024 has not been easy and November- Feb is the best season don' t drop the ball - get support - keep faith - a job is waiting for you - I found you tube free job coaching very valuable .

14. AnonymousDecember 19,2024 at 8:46PM UTC

    I'm so sorry to hear this. I hope despite all this stress, you're still taking care of yourself physically and mentally. The job market right now in general is tough, and it's happening to a lot of people. It took me months after being laid off to find a job, and for some people I know is longer. Nevertheless, having alternate source of income definitely helps. So if there's anything you can find in the area that would be best. Don't give up, it will be better. But if you feel like it is really tough, I hope you get to talk to someone, a therapist, a friend or this community here! We fully support you.