The "No Retaliation" policy

Anonymous

November 19,2023 at 1:42PM UTC

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The "No Retaliation" policy

My third new boss in 16 months, started in May of 2023. Right off the bat, we just did not mix well and it never got better.

In July, I went out on a medical FMLA. On 9/18, I returned to work. Within the first 15 min of my arrival, I was called into my bosses office and was put on a PIP. He included things that "I didn't take care of" that clearly came in while I was on leave!

On 9/19, as I was going through 1600 emails I had waiting for me when I returned to work, I saw a mtg request but it did not appear on his calendar. I added it. A few emails later, I see where that mtg had been moved to another day, so I made the revision.

Later that afternoon, I was called into his office again. I received my second write-up because I "couldn't keep his calendar straight." I tried to explain that I was going through 1600 emails but he interrupted me and said that I never take responsibility for anything. I told him I take responsibility if I truly made a mistake. So I receive my 2nd write-up in two days. At this point, I felt like he was retaliating against me because I had to take a leave and he was coming at me full throttle.

Fast forward to 9/29. At 2:00pm that afternoon, I was called into his office and was told that he felt it was best if we parted ways. Yeah, about that "no retaliation" policy...

I am over 50 and agree that ageism is real as the previous poster said. I have completed applications for seasonal, part-time work up to Executive Assistant to CEOs. I have had one zoom call. I received a follow-up email stating that I really impressed them and they would be getting back with me on the next step. A week later, I get the "Dear John" letter saying they were going with another candidate. WTH?

Between my age, the salary I was making and not being sure how to answer the question why I was no longer at my previous employer, I feel defeated. It's coming up on two months and have gotten just one nibble. I have many friends that are TAs in a variety of fields keeping their ears open for me.

I apologize if this forum isn't intended for complaints. I'm new on here. I would like to ask if anyone has a suggestion as to what I should do to increase the odds that my resume is seen?

Thanking you in advance.

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maria roseNovember 19,2023 at 2:29PM UTC
Understandably, the first part of your post was about how you lost your last job, but your main concern is how to move forward with getting a new job. In this goal of getting a new position, you need to present yourself in the best possible way, starting with revamping your resume to highlight your skills and remove anything that causes age discrimination, because you will face ageism blocks in your searches unless you can overcome the AI glitch element in the application process. When you do get to undergo actual interviews, today’s hiring process is a bit confusing because it is more a series of meetings to weed out contenders than what was called hiring interviews. Hopefully someone else can explain the process better so you can create the best possible outcome. As far as what you should say about this last job, you should only highlight what job skills you used and not reference in any way what occurred negatively that caused your termination. Put that negativity aside so you can move forward towards a new job. Good luck
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 3:56PM UTC
This whole AI thing is a mystery to me. I grasp the concept but how do you know exactly how to word a skill like, attention to detail or detail oriented. How do you know which one the system will catch? I've wondered about that.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 4:14PM UTC
One of the things that helped my resume start to gain traction was to quantify each bullet point. Rather than say "supervised staff in the ABC department," say "Supervised a staff of x-y employees in an ABC department that completed n [descriptive] projects in [timeframe] and provided revenue of $----." You may want to reach out to a career coach through your alumni association (if you have a degree) or one of several who reach out here on FGB frequently.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 11:03PM UTC
Love the bullet - You might take the words beginning "Completed n [descriptive projects in [timeframe] and provided revenue of.. (then put) while supervising staff of ....". In other words, it may be more effective to start the bullet with the benefit to the company... Just an idea.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 2:58PM UTC
I think things will pickup after the holidays. With vacations, holidays and end of the year budget efforts, many positions will become energized end of January.
Hang in there. Things will get better.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 2:24PM UTC
This is the issue right now. While there are many openings at multitudes of companies, the hiring process is far slower and they are receiving 100s and 1000s of applications within a day. They can afford to be selective at the most difficult time of year to get a job. It means you also have to find a way to edge out competition.
I’m currently trying to learn some novice analytics and tinker with some AI programs just to familiarize myself and add it to my resume. These are things to do when this time of year rolls around while job hunting. As someone who is also 50+, I’m worried that I won’t be seen as valuable (ageism), even though my resume has the kind of experience my role requires. So, while I’m having some “down time,” I’m adding some new learning experiences that can be applied (I’d look at certificate classes you can use to improve your skill set with sites like coursera). I’m at a point I may simply take a job at a local retail store just to have a little income flowing in since unemployment still hasn’t made its way to me yet. And it will offer me the time I need to get a few new tools added.
I clearly see how administrative roles are changing and I’m trying to be more open to my career choice changes. But if roles others are currently in/looking for find challenges to getting “seen” for their worth, it might be useful to look at getting a simple $25/month grouping of certificate classes in (as many as you’re able) to fully update and integrate new tools to your resume. Also, resumes are changing AGAIN from just a year ago (I’m always updating every 6 months) and it seems keeping tabs on these changes is a whole part time job in itself. So, get help with that.
There seems to be a lot of advice from hiring managers and professional resume writers who give tips. I can’t afford to pay for the help, so I am always checking their tips and advice posts. Plus, different industries have different requests. My former industry requested full history and documentation of experiences due to very detailed background checks they did. Other industries are specific and only want your last 10 years (or maybe 3 positions), and a very simplified “introduction” without too many words on a single front-facing page. I wish us all luck in the job hunting process we’re being challenged with. Keep at it, don’t give up, and find ways to improve or hone new skills.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 3:06PM UTC
I'm sorry that you're going through this experience. It is clear to me that your current boss doesn't know how to properly communicate with team members and the people that report to them.
In reading your timeline of events, you haven't done anything wrong. From what you stated, it is unclear if you had to sign the PIP but if I were you, I wouldn't sign anything. I would suggest to gather ALL of your email communications related to filing the FMLA request and every email communication with your manager and putting that into a folder that you can access outside of work and also PRINT everything so you have a clear documented paper trail of the entire situation. I am saying this because employers are very careful to only show their illegal behavior verbally or in person (hardly ever do they address anything fully in writing so the negligence and illegal acts never appear in writing).
Additionally, if you have this available, I would suggest seeking out the help of other departments at your job (DEI, Ombuds) if HR won't do anything on your behalf because your manager's behavior very much seems discriminatory and retaliatory. It is evident to me that there has been absolutely NO CONSIDERATION for you and your well being and the fact that you are adjusting from coming back from a granted FMLA medical leave. There is absolutely no respect for you in this situation and I am sorry that you're experiencing this. It is a true shame and your manager should be completely ashamed.
I am aware that situations like this do not fair well for the employee trying to advocate for themselves but overall my message to you is don't give up or give in to their intimidation tactics because do not forget your rights as an employee. If you end up getting terminated from this situation, you will be able to make a case and I also recommend seeking legal advice immediately (don't wait for the situation to fully play out).
Good luck :)
I would also recommend, connecting with other TAs in your area and also possibly working with recruiters to start the job search because it doesn't seem like this situation will improve especially if your current manager stays at the company.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 3:51PM UTC
He let me go within 10 days after I returned from my leave. My last day was 9/29.
I just never thought I would be in this place especially at this age.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 12:12AM UTC
I am right there with you.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 3:41PM UTC
Ughhh sounds like a sorry ass leader.
its so unfortunate we as adults have to deal with these types of b***s***
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 4:25PM UTC
Regarding your last job: you were fired unfairly. I am sorry. You were fired due to this person’s angry reaction to your using FMLA. It is illegal to fire someone for using FMLA. Putting someone on PIP the day they return from FMLA is petty and shameless but maybe within the letter of the company policy. Since you’re no longer with that company, I don’t know what you can do other than contact a free advice attorney.
Regarding your current job search: get some space from the sting of rejection. Maybe no longer being there is a blessing in disguise. Reconnect with the times when you felt some pride or mastery in your work, and use those experiences to update your resume. Good luck.
Lauri MyersNovember 20,2023 at 2:01PM UTC
Exactly! I agree that you should seek out legal advice on what your compensation would be for the loss of this position. Not the loss of pay, stress it in this direction, throw it this way that the position is worth the time, effort, and energy that you lost. Journal every time you reach out to a potential employer, what you do matters. This comes down to the time it takes you through your day of the job you lost that this 3rd boss cost you. He's the one who should compensate you for your time in looking for the replacement position as well as the legal fees. This is only a suggestion, I myself am over 50yrs, actually will be 57 in December and looking for a job.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 2:15PM UTC
It has crossed my mind about his responsibility.
I wish you nothing but luck in your search as well.
AyianNovember 19,2023 at 4:25PM UTC
Why I left: I took leave for a medical issue that is now resolved and when I returned to work, I was quickly dismissed.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 5:28PM UTC
I was on leave- FMLA - for a month. The DAY I returned- was let go.
Your manager is the huge problem in many ways
Julie MMNovember 20,2023 at 1:50PM UTC
Unfortunately, I seemed to be the only one to see this. If he makes it to one year, I would be surprised.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 5:30PM UTC
I would go through an agency that does direct hire and see where that lands you.
AnonymousNovember 19,2023 at 9:07PM UTC
Did HR ever give you a reason as to why you were let go instead of transferred to a different department?
Don't give up! I was part of a company-wide layoff in October, and it has been a struggle, but once I adjusted my salary requirements.
As for your age, unless you list every job you ever had and the date you graduated, they have no way of knowing. List only the last 7-10 years of work history, list where you graduated but not when.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 1:38PM UTC
I was at my previous job 19 years. Do I just show this past job and the 19-yr one?
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 12:39PM UTC
I can see you're going to get a LOT of pov's responses, I'm confident there's more to this than what's shared. I don't see any proof of ageism, on what's presented as well. Now, where you're at now. Your TA friends should be honest and be telling you it may be a hot second before your next role. It is not a fast paced hiring climate right now for most industries. Buckle Up, please have someone look at your resume and add metrics, measurable successes that you can speak on. Your verbiage needs to represent the needs of anyone you're applying for. Also, HR isn't involved in every situation like this unless invited / requested. The comments on did HR give you a reason, etc., this is the stereotype that you may think they're the decisions on separations. They ADVISE and when there's people issues brought to them they recommend or need to lean into risks it may bring the company legally if separated. They don't drive the separations, mostly, egregious acts really are the employee firing themselves. Managing people and managing people out aren't the same. Be patient during this time.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 1:29PM UTC
I was referring to ageism in interviewing for new positions.
:-)
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 4:14PM UTC
There isn't any proof provided in the posting, cautious on assumptions.
Julie MMJanuary 1,2024 at 11:58AM UTC
I meant during the interview process.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 1:29PM UTC
I decided to diversify my income because of emotional stress in my role 10 years ago , like you unwarranted. Don’t stay in a toxic place , move on and expand your search.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 1:57PM UTC
l really relate to you and empathize with you. My boss behaved similarly towards me after torturing me for 8 months. Before he joined, I had a distinguished performance record in the same team within 6 months of joining while he continued to struggle even 8 months later. He accidentally let out that I was half his age and I was also the only person of color on the team who then brought in many diverse people. Ageism and bias are all very real.
Just as people discriminate and abuse in the workplace, there are also those who love diversity and treat people well. I hope you get to work with someone like that soon. My best wishes.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 2:08PM UTC
Your story reminds me of a situation my dad went through. He worked in the IT area of a very posh retail chain. His new boss was much younger than he was, made a remark to my dad about "can't teach an old dog new tricks" and terminated my dad.
My dad sued the company and won!
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 12:27AM UTC
I’m so glad your dad saw Justice!! Very courageous of him to take action.
GirlBossanova934974November 20,2023 at 1:58PM UTC
1) I would put your resume on a few jobsites. 2) All you have to say about your previous employer is that the position was eliminated. Make it into a 3rd person type of description. 3) Ageism is very real. MAKE SURE you do not list anything on your resume that goes back beyond 2005-2010. NOTHING! Never fill in any job description that divulges your age. DO a Google Search on yourself and make sure that some 3rd party company is not advertising your age for the whole world to see. I use a service called DeleteMe.com for $100/year to have them take down all these citations. There are a bunch of 3rd party PRIVACY INVASION companies that do this. 4) Hopefully, you did not sign any separation paperwork from this company aka sign away your right to sue them. You may have a decent case to go after them for violating the FMLA and age discrimination laws. I would contact an employment lawyer.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 2:00PM UTC
What a horrible situation! Unfortunately I don’t see any proof of ageism, Also, unfortunately he followed the correct firing procedure so legally there is nothing you can do. I wouldn’t suggest trying. The job market is ridiculously tight right now for anything but entry level jobs or jobs for people with only a high school diploma. Talk to a temp agency while looking for full time work. Also, remove college graduation dates from resume and don’t bother putting any job down that happened more that 10 years ago. As for listing why you left your last job - don’t say you were fired. HR can’t say that you were and just use someone else other than your boss for a reference - like a coworker. If asked why you left maybe say something like “the job was no longer a good fit”. If you get an interview don’t mention the FMLA - they can’t ask about health and you don’t need to say that. They also can’t ask about age or religion. Don’t bad mouth the company in anyway. I hope this helps!
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 3:01PM UTC
The government really should hold these companies accountable for their "correct" procedures. Universal basic income or universal unemployment insurance no questions asked!!!!
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 4:10PM UTC
Good advice here. Good luck with your new endeavor!
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 4:25PM UTC
I appreciate this response, avoiding or lying why one leaves a position does concern.
Employee loss statistically is understood .
Now or later the experience will be shared as a lesson, but only now it shows your character , your critical thinking skills, your problem solving adversities with lessons learned.
We acknowledge, learn and overcome to be better , only by that can Trust be earned. Whereas in later Trust now is lost and never fully regained.
That hurts .
Sincerely,
S
StephanieNovember 22,2023 at 1:16AM UTC
Whaaaaat?
Julie MMJanuary 1,2024 at 11:55AM UTC
The items he had in the original PIP were things he dated in August. I was on leave until 9/18, when I was put on the PIP. The very next day, I was written up again because I had put something on his calendar then had to move it to another day. Anyone who manages a busy executive's calendar knows changes are made on a daily basis. They have no clue what all is involved behind the scenes. I have typed out a "diary" of dates/times with copies of back-up emails. Luckily when I returned to work, I started keeping a journal on things I worked on, conversations held, etc. I kept copies of notes of thanks I received from other executives in the company, one of which was from a senior executive (from our corporate office) above my ex-bosses level.
HR can say I would not be eligible for rehire. That's just as bad.
I just want them to go away. They want to appeal unemployment? How the heck am I even supposed to live? They are not good people.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 2:00PM UTC
Thank you Diane. I will contact you on Linkedin if that's okay?
Karen PatwaNovember 20,2023 at 3:13PM UTC
Did you consult an actual lawyer about this? While your post contains a lot of info it's not enough to gauge anything definitive. You're in more than one protected class and their reasons for terminating you after your leave are shaky at best. it's best to get a professional opinion from someone (who is referred) whose job it would be to advocate for you. Good luck with the job search.
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:35PM UTC
Thank you.
Julie MMJanuary 1,2024 at 11:41AM UTC
When I found out they are appealing my unemployment claim, I started a search for an attorney. U found out that my ex-boss had written and published a book about how to manage people. I had to laugh when reading it. I printed out pages that said the total opposite. Thank you for the advice.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 3:31PM UTC
I just want to encourage you to persevere. The process is long and looking for a job is a job on its own. Have you tried to network with groups like Launch Pad or Job Seekers Network? These groups understand what you are going through and they get results.
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:34PM UTC
I have not heard of these groups. I have written them down. Thank you.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 3:39PM UTC
These situations are all to familiar, so sorry to hear.
This next comment is a downer but I promise to end with opportunities and hope.
90% of the time there is no evidence to support an intentional removal of an employee, for whatever the reason (Financial or employee morale are most common) it usually is a slow 3 month process .
Yet being older and returning from medical does throw up a flag.
If it may help, research your local Attorney General for employee rights per state.
Regardless , it's probably not worth your time and effort.
I do not know your financial situation yet highly recommend.
*Volunteering with a highly reputable organization or None Profit
* Connect to your pashion while volunteering/learning & teaching.
"Mental Health is neer and dear to my heart".
* Your wisdom is needed in Leadership/Teamanship positions
* 1 to 3 hrs a week as volunteer, and the job will most likely find you.
*As to how to respond to your interviewers question ,
-Be you
-Be honest
- Be direct
-Be rehearsed
- Be Resilient
- Be not a Victom
☆ Be an inspiration with wisdom that serves you best.
Heart- Felt -Wisdom
Sincerely,
S
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 3:53PM UTC
Based on the information you provided, there appears to be a nexus between the close proximity in time between your return from FMLA and your discharge, proximity in time between your return from leave and the PIP reason stated, the proximity of time between your return from leave and the written write-up reason stated, your actions, and the volume of emails you had to address upon your return. When your company discharged you, it can affect your ability to be rehired and your earning potential. You can directly file a complaint with the US Department of Labor if you believe you were discharged in connection to your FMLA. Instructions are available online at the Department of Labor website - or just search for instructions on Google. Depending on your state you also have the following options: obtain a copy of your personnel file (check on Google to see what is required in your state) and filing for unemployment. Some states will approve unemployment unless you were discharged for misconduct - which is different than performance.
I will let others give advise on your best options for finding employment.
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 3:55PM UTC
And just because your employer put things in writing (“documented it”) is not necessarily proof they followed FMLA law.
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 1:53PM UTC
This is the best reply to this nonsense. I'm in the same boat. Get your employee file from HR, file with Dept of Labor and Civil rights for discrimination. AWAIT THIER DECISION BEFORE obtaining a lawyer. I'm awaiting a decision as well, as many have told me. It apparently help the attorneys make a case for you, and it makes their job easy. It seems as if Attorneys don't want to do real work for the clients, but having D.O.L, and ERD in their pockets makes the job easy.
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:32PM UTC
Thank you.
Deb BeuryNovember 20,2023 at 4:47PM UTC
You should definitely receive unemployment. You did nothing willfily to cause termination. When applying be sure to answer question of why you were terminated to "unsatisfactory performance"
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 5:32PM UTC
I have been in the exact position however in a different field. Being terminated within such a short time of returning from FMLA is seen as retaliation, especially when you are put on a PIP. If you were not written up prior to FMLA it's even better because its as clear as day. You're over 50 which is a protected class as well. If you ex boss clearly lacks empathy as your example shows and as mine did my suggestion is to immediately file unemployment and contact an employment attorney in your area and well get your self esteem back from being punished aa an adult. You did nothing wrong, you used a benefit the company offers for either your health or your families and they cause you further damaged along with your inability to find a new job. I'm sure you're thinking I don't want to do that, my question is why? They did not care about you, why show them an ounce. There are plenty of attorneys that will do things like this with a percentage of settlement or even pro bono. When you collect your monies and you will you can use that to supliment your income while you find a new job. Thos will also provide you with a gag order to them. It's ok to feel defeated because you have been treated the worst way by an employer for using benefits they offer. What is not ok is to live there..I'm sorry I this seems harsh but you need to stand up for you! You got this and I truly hope you're feeling better !!
Be your best advocate!!!
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:29PM UTC
Thank you!
AnonymousNovember 20,2023 at 11:14PM UTC
While you are looking for a "permanent" position, it may make sense to post your resume the usual places (Indeed, Careerbuilder, Zip Recruiter, etc.) and also with some of the agencies.
I have found that recruiters often look at resumes posted there and reach out with administrative needs..
Do be careful to check out the recruiters to see that they really represent the company they list. Check to see that they have a presence on Linked In and on the company website to see if similar postings are there, as there are scammers responding to some of these posted resumes. However, all you need is one viable option from the recruiters to obtain a position that may at least fill in until you obtain a "permanent" position (if such a thing exists!). Also, often contract roles obtained this way do turn into so-called "permanent" positions.
The reason I suggest this is that the contract roles are usually ones that the companies are urgently looking to fill, so the need is there, and, especially if the positions are remote, they don't care so much about ages. I recently did as I am recommending and landed a WFH role paying a quite acceptable amount and I'm 73, so it should be a good recommendation for anyone with the skills needed.
Also, just to add my two cents on the reason for termination, you could put "position eliminated" or "laid off".
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:28PM UTC
Thank you for the pep talk. Happy Thanksgiving!
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 1:37PM UTC
It amazes me how common this situation is
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 2:36PM UTC
I can help you rewrite your resume where it will stand out and offer interview coaching tips as well.
If you are interested, message me on here and I will give you my contact information so we can connect. I will help you get the job you want and deserve.
Jen B MaysNovember 21,2023 at 3:30PM UTC
First, I can hear in your sharing that you really cared to do a great job and that makes an unfair situation even more unfair.
Second, I'm very sorry you had to go through that with FMLA leave, no less. That's an already stressful situation made 1000x worse. ?
Third, as a fellow GenXer, I can confirm ageism is alive and real. I'm also on the job hunt, but I know postions I am legitimately interested in could easily turn this way in the future, which is why I am also working on a revenue stream that a twerpy manager can't impact, and where age doesn't matter.
I am pulling hard for you to land where you are supposed to and get back to the work of creating something worth your wisdom and caring!
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 11:27PM UTC
I'm pulling for you as well. We still have some kick in us don't we? LOL!
Terra WolfeNovember 21,2023 at 3:44PM UTC
This is not just unfair but illegal. I hope you promptly contacted the Workforce Commission followed by the Department of Labor to file a complaint against him and the company. This appears to be a retaliation from your FMLA leave and they cannot use that leave to penalize citing performance issues when while you were out. Federal Law is very clear on this.
sheryl johnsonNovember 21,2023 at 5:15PM UTC
Yes, I believe ageism does effect employment for us older people. I believe that's why I was terminated from my last job. I also think some recruiters or hiring managers are intiminated by our experiences/knowledge.
AnonymousNovember 26,2023 at 3:22AM UTC
That's interesting you say that. I'm almost 40, but people think I look 27. I had a virtual interview and the interviewer kept talking about how young he was and being very excited. It was hard to chime in because I know that I'm not that young. Then I said I hadn't had leadership experience and he said well this is an entry level position, but I did have 4 yrs experience in that field. Even though he was very friendly, I didn't get the job. There was a reason that was okay being passed over though. Thank you for your input!
AnonymousNovember 21,2023 at 5:16PM UTC
Please contact an attorney. I do think you have a valid case of both ageism and retaliation. Take with you any and all documentation that you have and be sure to use the words hostile workplace. Good luck.
Dawn PerkinsNovember 21,2023 at 7:12PM UTC
Same, I feel all of this.
AnonymousNovember 22,2023 at 2:28PM UTC
You need to talk to an employment lawyer. Your boss's actions definitely seem like illegal retaliation.
AnonymousNovember 22,2023 at 8:43PM UTC
Can confirm - had this happen when I got sick with Covid. I also reported them to the state for having no system in place for those who had Covid/Covid protocols etc. They got in a whole lotta trouble. The letter I got from the state when they tried to deny my unemployment was the most satisfying thing I've ever read.
AnonymousNovember 22,2023 at 11:10PM UTC
Two months is like 30 seconds for someone over 40 with oodles of experience. There are many more jobs for inexperienced people than for us.
Be sure that you use words from the job description in your resume. Also be sure that you have up to date skills mentioned. Take a training course (even if non-credit) to demonstrate your willingness to learn new things.
I was let go at 50, at 63, and again at 65. RIF, a situation like yours, and another RIF. I'm very discouraged 1 month into the latest layoff, as I can't afford to retire. Waiting until 70 to start taking Social Security would mean $700/month more. That's significant!
jennifer geciNovember 23,2023 at 4:12PM UTC
Look for contract work to get an "in". Same thing happened to me.
Julie MMJune 19,2024 at 5:19PM UTC
Well it has been 9 months since I was terminated and thought I would post an update.
Despite sending out what seems like a ton of resumes, I have gotten a couple of nibbles but absolutely nothing as far as an offer goes. I received unemployment. Once my former employer found out I was receiving it, they filed an appeal with TWC. It shouldn't surprise me that they did that but I thought what do they want from me, my carcass? I have had to file for bankruptcy. My unemployment was $200 too much for being eligible for food stamps. After my unemployment ran out, I ended up taking a job at a well known retail store. It represented $27/hr less than I was making at my job. I dont get enough hours to pay bills. I just told them last night that I made more on employment than I was making there.
Oh, and in January, I had one of my siblings move in with me. She had been evicted from her apartment, her car was repossessed and she has pre-dementia. I am not qualified to care for her nor can I afford to. I sold my sofa last week in order to have enough money to pay bills. My bedroom furniture is next. I live in a small, one bedroom apartment. She sleeps in my room. I sleep in the living room in a chair. I know the stress of having her here has absolutely pushed me to my limits.
I need a FT job with benefits so badly it makes me hurt. I'm trying to not lose my car and my apartment. I continue to send out resumes and I never hear back from anyone. My self esteem is at a zero.
The one bright light in this entire saga is that I found out my former employer's hearing with the Unemployment Office was held on 6/13 and their request was DENIED! I haven't felt this happy in a very long time.
I continue to take it a day at a time and continue to look at job postings several times a day. You would think having 15+ years experience working for C-level executives would mean something. I have found that isn't the case when you are of a certain age.
I hope if anyone else is out there is struggling, don't give up. We can't give up. We have been through many "wars" AND made it out the other side to talk about it. I'm a firm believer that you get what you pay for, even when hiring employees. They need to look at those of us who have so much experience and give us a chance.
Thanks to all!
Julie MMOctober 9,2024 at 12:19PM UTC
One year later...still working a retail job part-time. Have continually been sending out resumes. Have had interviews. I interviewed four times with the last interview, in person, with the CEO. Less than a week later, I see that they posted the position again! After spending all of that time over a six week period to find out that way that they decided they wanted to keep looking was a slap in the face. They had even told me during my third out of fourth interview that my resume rose to the top of the list. He was the one that wanted me to interview with the CEO. So once again, I fly through the video interviews but the minute I get in front of employers, I'm done.
I've interviewed with a Town Manager's office, fire department, a large soft drink company, and many more.
I did file for bankruptcy which was a very sobering experience but necessary due to financial situation. I still am not sure from one month to the next month if I will have rent. My sister still lives with me which is an entirely different stressor. Get no help from other siblings. They don't even call to check on her or how I'm handling things.
If anyone knows of an EA or AA position open in the Dallas, Plano, Frisco, McKinney areas, I would appreciate it.
I know I'm not the only one going through this and my heart goes out to all of you that are experiencing this as well. I am mentally exhausted, feel defeated, and am putting on stress weight (which is an entirely different problem :-) )
Thank you to all for "listening". You are the best.