I'm 42 years old and was let go from my job from my new manager who said it was based on performance.

70 Comments

1. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 2:11PM UTC

   Please get some counseling. You are going through a terrible experience, and it has affected you deeply. You have to be kind to yourself. If you have friends and/or supportive family, please seek them out. You have done nothing wrong. You will get another job, but first you need to take care of yourself. From your story, it looks like you were collateral damage in some weird politics at your office. I doubt that your dismissal was about you or your performance!

2. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 2:39PM UTC

   I understand the need for counseling. However, for many of us this is not a possible since we no longer have insurance and are surviving on such a limited income that there is absolutely no way we could pay out of pocket.

3. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 3:06PM UTC

   I'm thinking I need to find a way to afford it because I am divorced and lost my parents and most of my family years ago.
   Thanks for the support. In a weird way this feels like counseling reading that I'm not alone.

4. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 3:53PM UTC

   Hey there. Your state or county might have mental health resources available for free or low cost. Some private counselors offer sliding scales, paying based on what you can afford.

5. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 3:04PM UTC

   Thank you for this reminder as I do feel it was based on weird politics.

   I am looking for counseling as I can't keep going like this. I have a 9 year old son that deserves much better than he's getting from his mom.

6. Linda HeathJanuary 4,2024 at 4:15PM UTC

   I agree that counseling would be beneficial to regain your confidence and build a positive attitude regarding your future. I'd also suggest that you willfuly behave in ways that promote self-respect and self-kindness. Obligate yourself to dressing each work day as if you were going into work. Schedule and keep the time commitment to work on your career. This is your job during your transition period. Best of luck -- we're here for you!

7. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 4:04PM UTC

   I would definitely look into therapy asap.
   This has rocked you to your core and you will not be able to move forward on your own nor successfully obtain a great job while in this state.

   Trust me, the longer you stay stuck the more work it requires to heal and get back on track.

   Good luck.

8. AnonymousJanuary 4,2024 at 4:51PM UTC

   I agree with the counseling that others are suggesting, but in the meantime can you pick up something part-time? Possibly retail? I know that won't be ideal, but it will bring in some extra money.

9. Amanda LeeJanuary 4,2024 at 4:54PM UTC

   I am so sad to hear this happened to you. Please know that you are not alone in this situation. It happens more often than you think, people getting kicked to the curb through no fault of their own.

   If you have some resources for help to discuss your feelings, please take advantage of that. You need to grieve and there are people who are trained to help you through that process. Hopefully you have a friend or family group who can be a resource to listen as well. If people are offering advice, perhaps they can help you think of options to help you.

   The job market is crazy and the number of resumes you have sent is not surprising. Here are some tips to help you with applying.

   Tune up your resume to it stands out. Remember most resumes are running through some sort of AI and you need to use key words that will make it rise to the top. There are internet sources to help with that. Do not go back more than 10 years on your resume. Ten years is appropriate to show continuity in your job skill. Do not include dates of graduation from schools on your resume. If you are filling out online applications, you are not required to complete demographic information in the application process. Reach out to recruiters if you have not done so. They have insight into jobs. Also, if you can do so, get LinkedIn Premium to help you get a leg up and connect with recruiters for jobs you want.

   Best of luck to you as you seek to land your new role!

10. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJanuary 5,2024 at 12:36AM UTC

    REGARDING: "Remember most resumes are running through some sort of AI and you need to use key words that will make it rise to the top. "

    In my experience, this is not true.

    Just for your information, here's what happens when you apply:

    I have experience with 7 or 8 different ATS and with different configurations of those systems.

    Here's what happens (on all the systems I've ever used) when a new candidate applies to one of my open requisitions: I click on their name in the list of new applicants for that requisition.

    Their resume has not been ranked. It has not been sorted for keywords. It has not been "scored". It has not been filtered.

    There typically is no sorting involved with the application process - which is where keywords come in.

    I click "download resume". It downloads in whatever format - Word doc or PDF - the candidate uploaded it. I look at their resume. With my eyeballs. Every one.

    There's no need for me to search by keywords for new applicants because you're sitting right there in the list of new applicants.

11. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 1:35AM UTC

    The AI ATS - I've had this exact conversation many times over on LinkedIn with people.

12. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJanuary 5,2024 at 2:51AM UTC

    What is "The AI ATS"? Please be specific.

13. Melina MarieJanuary 4,2024 at 7:57PM UTC

    I say this without knowing much about HR laws, but if it were me I would reach out to some HR law firms to see if you have a viable case because that seems so unfair! I empathize so much with you as I've also struggled with severe and debilitating depression and also being treated unfairly in the workplace. I hope you are at least able to file for unemployment benefits! Hopefully you have a good support network, but if not, I recommend looking into mental health support groups or group therapy - it helped me tremendously in the past! Having external validation in a sense that I wasn't alone in how awful and messed up I felt and being able to share with a group of people that understood me, felt so relieving.

    I also recommend watching Amy Cuddy's Ted talk to help with ways to improve confidence for interviewing! https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_may_shape_who_you_are?language=en

    You got this!!

14. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 1:31AM UTC

    Thank you!

15. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 1:34PM UTC

    I am 59yo And I was fired before Christmas because client was not happy with my consulting outcomes. My pre Covid statistics was 100 applications 10 interviews and 1 secured job. Since changed after that but please believe in yourself. my advice - do not stay on the same job for more than 5 years, otherwise you’ll became an obsolete piece of thdd we furniture

16. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 1:38PM UTC

    It might be difficult to see it, but you were given the gift of not having to work for a bad manager. I agree with the other poster, it sounds like strange office politics and not a reflection on you. I have been let go from a job and ended up in a better place. There's something better for you out there! Wishing you the best of all things in 2024!

17. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 1:40PM UTC

    I've been laid off in my 30s, 40s and 50s. It sucks, no matter what. If you applied to 500 jobs with only 2 interviews, I would step back, review your resume.

    I was in a similar situation recently, and I redid my resume to show my accomplishments at my jobs. They don't care what your tasks were they want to know what you accomplished, I then wrote a cover letter to explain any work or skill gaps.

    I used this Udemy course, https://www.udemy.com/share/101Dxq3@Zfy03f0OCXVO8etC6ETecN1rea_I8wKwgMZtvuCsvN0ckXYVO07lz6nWrqjZCP9G/

    Good luck and hang in there.

18. Julia M GeorgeJanuary 5,2024 at 2:13PM UTC

    Same

19. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 2:14PM UTC

    Just to add to that, you can also get assistance for groceries.

20. GirlBossanova934974January 5,2024 at 2:18PM UTC

    To be candid, this sounds like a resume problem. As others have commented, you should consult someone proficient in writing a resume and go from there. You should also have 2-3 resumes depending on the job. A few good cover letters are required as well. LAST, be sure and apply to jobs on various job sites as such. DO NOT waste time with jobs that have 100 plus applicants. Be sure to work with a work related professional society if you can aka Marketing or IT or Accounting or whichever profession you are in. Those professional societies have a list of job postings. If you are a college grad, check out your alumni job site. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, go to Governmentjobs.com and apply for government jobs. That site has jobs for Federal, State, County, and City positions.

21. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 6:03PM UTC

    I agree with everything except ‘ don’t apply for jobs with more than 100 applicants’. I was interviewed for a job where there were 2200 applicants. A lot of these numbers reflect AI-generated resumes. I’ve seen job postings that are only a few hours old that state there are over 100 applicants. Right now the job market is extremely tight. So just look at it as though you are cutting in line and will be near the top of the list for qualified applicants.

22. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJanuary 5,2024 at 6:13PM UTC

    I have used two different configurations of iCIMS and we did not have either configured to do any of those things.

    Knock out questions have nothing to do with the resume - they have to do with how the applicant answers the question - for example, will you now or in the future need visa sponsorship?

    Any candidates that were eliminated by knockout questions were still available to be viewed by recruiters in every system I've ever used.

23. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 7:36PM UTC

    Not knowing what you did for a living perhaps try doing some contract work which might pay more of in the near term take a job if it is offered to you at a lower pay because something is better than nothing.
    You have to push yourself to get out of the house even if it is only to go to the library. Do one thing every day that gives you job even if it is not job related. If you think ageism is the reason you were let go pursue a claim against the company for this. Yes, I realize my response if a mixed bag of good and not so good. The job market is flooded with qualified people, it is taking 6-9 months in some situations to find a new role. Focus your search and Don't just apply and pray for a response reach out to your network and others in your field of expertise for help. Blog if you can, show your expertise openly and publicly and let people know you are available.
    You may have to go onsite if employment is needed so be prepared for that.

    If you are in fear of losing your home consider perhaps renting out a room if you can because that may help take the pressure off you for the job search.
    Sending good vibes your way...

24. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:52PM UTC

    Thank you. I have a little boy so I'm not sure I can rent a room, but the advice is useful and I'm grateful for it. I do believe they violated the ADA but I signed away my rights to sue or charge from the EEOC. I am in human resources.

25. AnonymousJanuary 5,2024 at 9:00PM UTC

    Im here to comment on forward momentum and restoring your confidence.

    They say performance because it’s a technique to manage someone out lawfully (and sometimes unlawfully). Don’t take it personally. ITS NOT YOU. I know it’s hard to avoid the “why me” and “what did I do wrong to deserve this” pattern of thinking but, this is something that happens in corporate life. You’ve got to focus on moving forward. Consider it a personal challenge to be totally unbothered by this corporate technique. You can self-evaluate later, if you wish.

    Meanwhile, to restore your confidence, please consider a short exercise to help locate your spirit in a place of accomplishment. I have found great success in noting my proudest accomplishments and noting the trends/themes across them. This has helped me frame my “value add” skills in my resume. Tell close folks that you’re doing this excercuse to take inventory. You can ask for the areas where you have strengths.

    I promise. It helps.

26. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 12:21AM UTC

    Have you tried posting your resume on the "usual suspects", Careerbuilder, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, etc.? Recruiters do visit these boards, and the openings are wide-ranging. Don't know what industry/profession you are in, but it should be covered by them. Also, you may try contingency agencies. Even if the jobs are "temporary", they could lead to "full-time" employment, and would provide a source of income, as well as keep your skills (and consequently, confidence) up for future interviews.

    Just a few extra thoughts. I do agree with listing out your accomplishments - time or money saved, processes streamlined, etc. Could help in the confidence area. Also, I have found Andy LaCivita's videos and materials helpful. Many are totally free.

27. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 2:48AM UTC

    Hi!

    This was me 4 years ago. I’d only had positive reviews for 11.5 years and then a new manager fired me bc they didn’t believe I could do my job. I also was depressed, anxious, crying. I picked up a PT job bartending to be out of the house and making money while I collected unemployment. I kept an excel sheet of all the jobs I applied to which equaled about 500 over my 13 mos of unemployment.
    I met with a career coach that I met on here which helped a LOT. It got me out of my negative head space and I landed the very next interview. I’ll hit my 3 year anniversary in a few weeks.
    My advice: get a career coach, get a PT job to get out of your house and make some money and meet people. Practice soft skills on LinkedIn Learning (pay for the upgraded membership that helps you get noticed).
    Best if luck! You got this!

28. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 5:17AM UTC

    What was your title? Try looking for remote jobs till the one u want comes along. I have been there and was introduced to gaslighting. No one supported me, etc. I was not invited to meetings. It was like a "gloified secretary "I hope all works out for you!

29. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 8:17PM UTC

    My title was Senior Talent Advisor, it was a welcome change from the HR Manager/ Business Partner/Generalist positions I've been in for most of my career. Thank you for your response. It makes total sense. I was a corporate employee and stopped being invited to meetings and had to rely solely on the new manager for information. She stated (during the termination) that I was not partnering with HR and when I tried to respond, she said this is not a negotiation. God forbid she mention this to me before termination.

    I'm trying so hard to move past this as it's been almost 6 months since I was fired, but it's so hard to let go when I see them posting party pics on LinkedIn of the team I used to be a part of.

    All of your responses have been incredibly helpful. Gaslighting is not a term I've ever associated with employers, but I can see it now that you mention it. Thank you again!

30. Marie-Pier JoubertJanuary 6,2024 at 1:47PM UTC

    I'm sorry this happened to you.

    Here are a few suggestions:
    1- reach a lawyer specialized in work rights. You might be surprised.
    2 - Rework on your CV. What are your realizations (be precise with numbers and %). From those realizations, breakdown the underlying skills. This will open up more opportunities (transferable skills)
    3 - take care of yourself. We are just a number to make money for companies, if they feel you are not top shape, they won't be interested in "your package"
    4 - Quality over quantity. Put work into those applications that are really interesting for you, forget the rest. Put your energy to the right place. Job research is not only applying for jobs, it's just the point of the iceberg. It's an opportunity to work on yourself, to rebrand and get to where you want.

    Don't forget, there are services that can help you do that. You can find a mentor as well. There's a better path coming, just take care of yourself and the situation will be clearer.

    Don't give up, love yourself. One minute at a time.

31. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 2:01PM UTC

    I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I left a job without another one because it was a really bad situation. My supervisor was an all round horrible person. Company hired a coach to help her improve. The coach worked with her for months then recommended she be terminated. I say all this to say, my mental health and confidence was horrible.

    My advice is to register with temporary staffing agency immediately. They will put you to work quickly and get you out of the house. My first temp assignment offered me the job within six months. Praying you get back in the workforce and regain confidence!

32. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 2:27PM UTC

    I know exactly how you feel this same thing happened to me right before Thanksgiving! I was devastated having to go through the holidays and now today is my 45th birthday with no full time income. I literally loath interviewing the process is ridiculous!!! There is no reason a candidate has to be interviewed on 4 different days by 12 people in total! It is a huge waste of time and is sickening!!!

33. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:30PM UTC

    Yes, that is total overkill. I used to ensure that a candidate only had a phone interview, 1:1 with hiring manager and an on-site with a panel of 6 or less. I believe anything more turns away good talent and they will provide that info on job review platforms.

34. Gerald CombeJanuary 6,2024 at 2:38PM UTC

    My guess is that this new manager wanted to bring on a member of their previous team.

    It is only day 3. I can understand the disappointment and panic but you need to be pro active not reactive. Get up, take walks, meditate on what values you bring to the table. Speak to your old bosses and ask for a recommendation and when needed, a reference letter. Bad energy begets bad results and good energy, good. I believe that. Your age isn't an issue. You are in your prime. Refresh your resume', shoot for the moon and when asked why you were let go just say that you and the new management weren't a good fit.
    Now, get out of bed, take a refreshing walk, gather yourself and go get that new job.

35. Mary BlakeJanuary 6,2024 at 3:01PM UTC

    Depression, anxiety and panic are very real and can cause decreased energy, lack of confidence and feeling helpless and hopeless. I would address that first with a counselor for counseling or Psychiatrist or Psych NP for medication. Sometimes we need meds to jumpstart the process.

    this new manager most likely saw you as a threat because of your experience, length of time at the company and high salary. These “ managers “ can be horrible. And no one checks them or says “ she’s a great loyal experienced employee- why are you doing this. This behavior goes unchecked. Horrible!

    yes- network, reach out to past and present colleagues. Know that you are capable and bring a lot to any position. Apply for all types of positions with various levels of experience at all companies- large and small/ possibly startups. Refine and reduce your resume to highlight your skills with action words. Most of all never give up. Consider consulting or staying your own business. You can do this!!!!!!

36. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:27PM UTC

    Hey Mary Blake!

    Thank you for your comment and advice. I've started a blog with consulting services. I still don't have any offers, but do finally have an interview next week.

37. Eugene LeonardJanuary 6,2024 at 2:55PM UTC

    hang in there baby...(the old poster with the kitten) despite the gloom, the roses always bloom...the dark clouds always pass, and the sun shines again...was out of work for months, starting something new soon...

38. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:24PM UTC

    Congrats!!! I'm happy to hear you're starting something new! I can't wait for the day I can say that I've finally been offered a position. It's so hard because I've worked in only HR my entire career that spans almost 20 years. I have been certified most of this time and recently passed the SPHR.

    I have gotten so many rejection emails, even for junior level HR jobs.

39. Irma CortezJanuary 6,2024 at 3:35PM UTC

    Hi, I'm in the same situation I've moved back to Dallas from Oklahoma City been out there for three years. Something bad happen to me that my X boss didn't give a damn about my life so my family decided to move me back to my hometown now I've been without a job over a month as well my anxiety my nerves you name it has hit me so hard I also lost my house out there but God is good keep your prayers highly praised and we'll make it through.

40. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 8:11PM UTC

    The anxiety is real. It can be crippling at times. I'm seeing a Dr and now taking an antidepressant. It seems to be helping. Bad managers have no idea the power they have in destroying a person's self esteem.

41. Mystery MysteryJanuary 6,2024 at 4:08PM UTC

    Your state or county may have a workforce center or employment center that can review your resume, speak with you about job searching, giving you hints and tips and mock interviews. Take advantage of any community programs to assist in your job search. I would also suggest seeking out assistance for your mental health concerns.

    Put the past job in the past and don't be too hard on yourself about your current situation of being between jobs.

    Reach out and talk to supportive friends and/or family and let your loved ones know how you are feeling. They may be able to help you.

    Be kind to yourself and perhaps in addition to seeking assistance for your depression, see a doctor and inform him/her about your depression.

    I wish you the best in your job search and in your life.

42. Elizabyth HarringtonJanuary 6,2024 at 4:13PM UTC

    Have you reached out to anyone you worked with for a LinkedIn recommendation? I was once let go from a job where I suffered under a toxic boss who destroyed my self esteem. I tried to find another job without success for a good year before I was let go, and my failures in interviews were really because I stopped believing in myself. Once I was unemployed, I reached out to people I worked with (including people I managed, coworkers and clients) and asked for a LinkedIn recommendation. The comments that came back were heartfelt, amazing and really lifted my spirits. I realized that I actually am really good at what I do and my failure in that role had nothing to do with me and everything to do with an insecure boss. Within three months I was back in the workforce, making a better salary and doing something even better.

43. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:15PM UTC

    OP here. I did receive one reference on my LinkedIn from my prior manager, VP of HR who was fired before me. When I texted who I considered "friends" at work, either no response at all, but one (HR Director) did respond stating they were afraid they are not allowed to give any personal references as it's against company policy. What baffles me is that I never once saw a policy book or even an employee handbook. And again, this is a large publicly traded company with government contracts.

44. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 4:14PM UTC

    I am so sorry this happened to you and know that sense of grief and loss you are feeling when you are doing well at a job and out of no where you are let go in a hurtful way or even for cause that isn’t true. It’s a trauma and if you can find some therapy it really is helpful, don’t isolate yourself. Do volunteer work or any type of short term even unrelated opportunity to help you get centered and remember who you are. I imagine that this has nothing to do with you and your manager with little experience did a poor job of executing that has left you mourning. For example, when I was 40, I was on my 4th manager in 18 months all had been pushed out by the new CEO and the 4th manager was like yours not an exec or experienced. I was then pushed out too with hurtful lies so they could backfill me with the 30 year old contractor (not qualified for the role and used to think it was odd CEO would seek her out for personal chit chat) I had been trying to convert to a junior role FTE. Well within the year, new married CEO was fired for inappropriate behavior including intimate relationship with my last manager and hitting on the younger replacement -that’s why they wanted her hired. So gross. I share this to say don’t let these folks who don’t value you, what feels so personal about your job loss that you doubt yourself. Good luck!

45. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 8:06PM UTC

    Wow! I really love this group. You all are so comforting and make me feel very much that I'm not alone. And guess what, I'm about to shower! Haha

46. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:09PM UTC

    I'm the OP in this group and would love to talk to you more about your situation. Is this common with a new CEO to just fire the staff that's been there so he can put in the "ladies" he wants to? This is a publicly traded company with government contracts. I signed a severance waiver, but it was nothing compared to all of the damages this termination has caused me in the long run.

47. SalmonicaJanuary 6,2024 at 6:20PM UTC

    Unfortunately, I had something similar happen to me. It's debilitating! I know it's tough, but don't stop applying.

48. Melissa KastenJanuary 6,2024 at 6:41PM UTC

    Omfg, I'm literally going g through this exact thing right now.

49. AnonymousJanuary 6,2024 at 8:24PM UTC

    Ditto

50. KathyJanuary 6,2024 at 6:49PM UTC

    Companies make up reasons to fire people all the time. It's happened to me and probably most of the women on this site.

    Perhaps the company was just pulling back on the remote positions. I've read that many want their staff onsite and are canceling remote positions.

    I Hope you saved some money.

    Good luck!

51. Jill UllmanJanuary 6,2024 at 8:21PM UTC

    First, take a breath: it is all going to be okay. This is one of the most stressful things anyone can go through. Next, focus on self care basics- if you can’t shower, brush your teeth and splash water on your face. You’ll feel better. Watch the sugar because it will make you even more tired. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Take a short walk as many days a week as you can. Even just to the end of the street and back. Moving your body and getting fresh air will help. And be kind to yourself. - treat yourself like your oldest and most trusted friend. Remember that you have valuable skills that will be a real asset to the right employer. You WILL find a job.

52. AaronJanuary 6,2024 at 9:18PM UTC

    I would like to encourage you through this transition to just simply keep on moving forward in good faith and confidence.

53. AnonymousJanuary 7,2024 at 12:00AM UTC

    Adding to a lot of the encouraging comments here. Get therapy help if you can. There are plenty of non profit organizations that offer free therapy sessions. In addition to that, I would recommend looking at starting a side hustle or even taking a job for lower pay to keep you active and engaged with others. Human contact has a way of helping us get different perspective on life. Another idea is to find ways to volunteer to help others who are struggling as well. Giving and serving has a way of opening us up and attracting goodness back - reciprocity in action. Don't give up. You have more to offer than you may be able to see in this dark season.

54. AnonymousJanuary 8,2024 at 7:47AM UTC

    I love & support this response.

55. AnonymousJanuary 7,2024 at 12:14AM UTC

    I understand the situation you are going through. I identify with the difficulty of finding a job after 40 years of age. But something that I have learned is that when faith lacks me, I ask my higher self, in my case Jesus Christ, who through his Holy Spirit sustains me, helps me move forward and to continue trusting that each day that comes is a new day. opportunity to try it. To look for other options such as creating a business based on my skills and knowledge. I hope that God lifts you up over your difficulties and you can sing about your achievements.

56. AnonymousJanuary 7,2024 at 6:00AM UTC

    Unfortunately, for those who don't share your beliefs, this offers no comfort & is often a place where people will easily lose any faith as to why a loving god might allow this to happen to them.
    I hope it helps you and holds you over till something changes.

57. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 8:00PM UTC

    Thank you. I've been on my knees praying. I know I have to be patient. All of us in this predicament have to just be patient I suppose.

58. AnonymousJanuary 7,2024 at 4:26PM UTC

    Put yourself first. Please keep looking for the job you deserve. I have been looking for awhile. It is not easy. You are not alone. Hang in there! You deserve a great new job!

59. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 7:58PM UTC

    Thank you. ❤️

60. KathyJanuary 7,2024 at 6:31PM UTC

    And you are anonymous.

    The difference between you and me is I've tried to relieve the person their guilt in feeling betrayed by employer. If the person is making so much money at this remote position, perhaps they just don't want to pay her salary anymore. While the business decision may be morally wrong, it happens every day. Read the comments on this site.

    People shouldn't spend every dime out of every paycheck. Even if you only save$5.00, it's still saving something.

61. KathyJanuary 7,2024 at 6:40PM UTC

    Apply for unemployment. If you get turned down, appeal immediately. Apply for food stamps (SNAP) program. Some utilities have programs for heating and electrical subsidies. Apply for those. Depending on your income you may qualify.

    If the state in which you live has an Affordable Care Act marketplace for health insurance, look for a affordable insurance on that site as opposed to paying for COBRA. Most times COBRA is unaffordable.

    Good luck!

62. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 10:00PM UTC

    Hey Kathy,

    Cobra is definitely not affordable. I am still trying to get assistance for food and Medicare, but because I had more than $2,000 in my savings, I can only receive partial medicaid and I would have to pay $611 each month out of pocket for Medicaid to cover anything else. I'm in FL and have never heard of such a thing because Cobra is actually cheaper than what this shared amount is. I guess I have to be penniless and homeless before I can get any kind of public assistance. I'm now going on 6 months of no work. I'm hopefully about to receive an offer for a job that is an hour drive one way and a 50% reduction in pay, but it's something. It's just so sad because I finally thought I was on my way. Being the sole provider to a 9 year old is so hard.

63. Carsinojenn2January 8,2024 at 5:39AM UTC

    I would go to a temp agency specializing in what you did before. Then you can be working while also looking for a permanent position. If you make less at least you will have some income. You could also get a second part time job while you look. Good luck!

64. LORI-ANN BURLINGAMEJanuary 8,2024 at 3:00PM UTC

    Did you receive a severance package? Did you apply for unemployment? If not, do so now. Let the company explain to them why you were let go.

    Have you registered with any contract/temporary employment services? This will help you until you secure a full-time position.

    Have you heard of Louise Hay? You may want to check out her 101 positive affirmations at (louisehay.com/101-best-louise-hay-positive-affirmations/).

    Repeating positive affirmations is good the soul!

65. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 7:57PM UTC

    I did negotiate a severance package and did get unemployment, which is about to expire. I never was given a reason for my termination.

    Thank you for your comment and suggestion. I truly needed to hear this and will check out Louise Hay.

66. Farah BajwaJanuary 11,2024 at 12:11AM UTC

    Firstly, I'm sorry you were taken so off guard; its not fair to you.

    Second, if you haven't, IMMEDIATELY file for unemployment benefits because there is a waiting period.

    Third, if you were on good terms with anyone there and are open to letting the past say in the past, you can always consider telling them to contact you back to your position if things change.

    Fourth, be patient - there was a holiday lull with companies and personnel on vacation, and hiring freezes due to end of year wrap ups and new year budgeting.

    Fifth, make sure you're on linkedin - select the features that show you're open for work, and make connections - referrals do wonders and applications from "people on the street" . Cover Letters are also very helpful in giving you an edge.

    Sixth and most important - as long as you are taking steps on your behalf, regardless of how small they are, know that God and the universe are working in set things in your favor. You got this!

67. AnonymousJanuary 11,2024 at 8:18PM UTC

    Believe in you. It may be easy to say, but once you know who you are as a person it will help you understand your worth. Don't give up! Try setting up a schedule as to when to put in applications and when to follow up.

68. AnonymousJanuary 12,2024 at 9:10PM UTC

    Everyone is saying apply for Unemployment. Jobs presently will say they fired you for misconduct and violation of rules. And you will automatically get disqualified for unemployment. Everything with private organizations these days is very strategic.

69. AnonymousFebruary 10,2024 at 9:52PM UTC

    I applied for and received unemployment, but it's already been used up.

70. AnonymousJanuary 26,2024 at 8:15PM UTC

    Thank you! It means so much.