As the minutes ticked down to the New Year, I couldn’t wait to hop online and start searching for new jobs. I fought the urge to start sooner, waiting for January 2 to finally peruse the listings.
Now, I’m not stupid.
I realize the kind of economic climate we’re in. Many people I know are currently looking for jobs with no luck in finding anything suitable or hearing back for the jobs they do apply for. I was in this same position two years ago when I was let go from my previous job and it took me four months to get hired at my current position.
I didn’t expect to find anything right away and I tried to keep my optimism at a realistic level. But wow, does job hunting really take the happy-go-lucky out of you.
The problem isn’t lack of jobs. There are plenty of positions available. None of which I qualify for. In 10 years I could be hired as a manager or director, but right now I’m in that awkward spot between entry level and just above entry level. Apparently all the positions for the low man on the totem pole are filled.
Another obstacle is the inability to move prior to having a job. For some reason this makes me an undesirable for employers. I could see employers wanting me to be familiar with a community, but as I tell most people from Long Beach “I didn’t know Long Beach existed until I started working here.” In the end, I know more about Long Beach than I do about my own hometown.
I won’t ask for relocation and I would start just as soon as anyone else who had to give his or her current employer notice. Would I hop on a plane for a 15-minute interview? Hell yeah.
Sure, we would love to pack our bags but considering our savings, or lack thereof, it’s just not financially possible. We’re trying to do this responsibly in hopes that once we leave we won’t be forced to move back.
On the bright side, the state education department confirmed our information that Chuck could apply for a job and start working without certification. Hopefully someone will scoop up his science skills and pay him enough to support my butt until I find something.
I’m trying to say positive, especially since it’s only January 6 and we’ve only been at it for four days. Maybe I need to cut myself a little slack.
Ariella
