Jobbing: Update on Routine and Job

The new job has been going well for the most part. Here's a quick update on how life has been on the new schedule.

Dealing with Difficult People

I've dealt with difficult people before, but there's one lady in particular at my new job that is straight up mean! Like obviously mean and rude. It got so bad that I actually spoke to her manager about it. I approached it in the following way, "I'm new here and I'm still getting used to everyone's personalities. I feel there's some hostility with XX and wasn't sure what to think about it."

Well, it turns out it's good I spoke to her manager (who is my peer and the one training me) about it. Turns out that this lady is mean to everyone, but she's especially mean to me because she's upset that I was hired in at a level above her. Like, really? Ugh. Petty work drama is not my thing. But honestly, my entire professional life I have never been treated so rudely by someone.

I try to keep my distance (as much as I can on a small team) and don't go to her for help now. It seems to be working ok lately.

The Routine

My routine has gotten a little better. I'm still not sleeping well, which really puts a hinder on things. But I think I've gotten the waking up 4am thing down. I've adjusted my bedtime, so I'm actually in bed by 8pm on most days. I'm just so tired, I'm useless and can't get anything done.

Dinner time has been working out OK. We mostly do a fruit cocktail-type dinner now-a-days. My son doesn't seem to want to eat anything else.

Meal planning has been going extremely well. I've been making just enough meals to make it through the week.

Laundry has been going OK. I've pretty much moved all my laundry to the weekends now, which works better for the new schedule and seems to be the only way that I can keep up with it.

House Chores have not been as easy to maintain. I do well with it when we don't have weekend activities. But, when we have weekend activities -- it's extremely difficult for me to get the house chores done. It's frustrating because I want my house to be maintained better. I'm learning to let go of my perfection and just doing what I can. House chores have been at the bottom of my priority list after laundry, dinner time, and meal planning.

Quality Time with my Son

Believe it or not, even though we have a shorter period together during the week - I feel like the time we spend together is better quality. I've been really focusing on connecting with him and making sure we do quality activities together at night time. That's been in the form of short games (he only has a 10-15 minute attention span) and story time before bed. I've also been having him help me with preparing dinner. He helps wash the fruit off :)

It's sometimes hard at the end of the day to stay engaged when I'm so tired, but I make it a priority. I'm doing all I'm doing for him. The least I can do is spend some QT with him and make sure the long hours don't impact my connection with him.

Sleep and Working Out 

As I've mentioned, my sleep is horrible. I toss and turn all night. I wear my Fitbit Charge HR to bed and I can see how horrible my sleep patterns are. So, even though I'm going to sleep at a decent hour and I'm exhausted-- I'm not getting quality sleep. I've tried a few different things: 1) going to sleep earlier, 2) buying a new pillow, 3) setting the AC temp lower. Nothing seems to be working.

I was hoping to start adding in a workout in the morning, but it's so hard when I'm so groggy from lack of sleep. Now, I'm starting my IVF Cycle #3 - so I can't really start right now anyways (they don't want you doing vigorous exercise while stimming). But I have to do SOMETHING!

I've been trying to get up at work every hour and walk around. I also have added some desk stretches. But even with that, my # of steps aren't much. I'm just not moving enough. I really want to make this a priority because I love how I feel when I workout. BUT, the time crunch is a real thing. There really aren't enough hours in the day.

I know theoretically if I work out, I'll probably sleep better. But crawling out of bed groggy at 4am right now, not sure I have it in me to crawl out of bed at 3/3:30am and actually workout!

I know I have to make it a priority. I'm trying my best. After I'm finished with IVF#3, I'll try to make a better effort and see if I can make progress with this.

So, overall things are going well at the new job. The schedule/routine is working out pretty solid. I'm getting more flexibility where I can work from home a few days a week. Which will hopefully help with the time crunch.

Jobbing: The New Job - the first 2 weeks

I've been at my new job for 2 weeks now! It's interesting how quickly I've adapted to the new routine. As you know, in my previous job, I worked from home. With the new job, I have an hour commute! So - big change. It's impacted: daycare hours, cleaning routine, laundry routine, wake-up times, etc.  I've had to make MAJOR tweaks to everything. 

The Routine 

The routine was probably the thing that I've had to tweak the most. I actually had to write it down so I wouldn't forget anything and to make sure the timing worked. I've had to move things to the weekend, because it was just too much to take care of during the work week. Here's my work-week schedule: 

3:30 AM	Work-Out: 30 mins?
4:00 AM	Mom's Morning Routine
4:30 AM
5:00 AM
5:15 AM	Son's Morning Routine
5:30 AM
5:45 AM	Out the Door: Son to Daycare (6am drop off)
6:00 AM	Drive to Work (Carpool)
6:30 AM
7:00 AM	Mom: Work
7:30 AM
8:00 AM
8:30 AM
9:00 AM
9:30 AM
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
11:00 AM
11:30 AM
12:00 PM
12:30 PM
1:00 PM
1:30 PM
2:00 PM
2:30 PM
3:00 PM
3:30 PM
4:00 PM	Drive to Daycare (Carpool)
4:30 PM
5:00 PM	Pick up Son
5:30 PM	Dinner Routine
6:00 PM	Play with Son
6:30 PM
7:00 PM	Load Laundry (as needed) / Bath for son (as needed)
7:30 PM	Son Good Night Routine
8:00 PM
8:30 PM	Good Night Routine
9:00 PM	Mom Sleep

I'm "trying" to eventually get a workout in the morning... I'm not there yet! I'm not sleeping well and I keep snoozing for too long. I have started wearing my Fitbit HR again, so I can track: water intake and steps. I've been trying to make sure I get up every hour and walk around at work. Not successful at being consistent, but it's a work in progress. At least I'm realizing how much I'm NOT getting up and moving. Hoping to make incremental improvements as I go along. 

Meal Planning

Meal planning has NOT been easy for me. When I worked from home, I would just cook my lunches and cook dinner - without feeling too rushed. I am still trying to tweak the meal planning to work for me. I keep making too much food. I thought I would make food for the week for: snacks, lunch, and dinner. But it turns out, that when I get home - I'm not really in the mood to eat a "real meal." I also end up feeding my son a fruit-based meal vs what I made. He refuses to eat chicken or veggies at times... but he will always eat fruit. So, meal planning on Sunday for dinners -- doesn't really work and has led to food waste. 

Since that's not working, I'm making tweaks to only make enough for lunches and plan for an easy to put together dinner. 

Here's an example of a week of food, which includes lunch and dinners: 

Although the meal planning hasn't worked for dinners, it definitely works for work snacks and lunch. Here's an example of one day: 

Here's it all packed up in my cool new "lunchbox": 

Here's it closed: 

I'm absolutely LOVING the rubbermaid lunch blox sets for food storage and the Fitmark Box for a lunchbox.  The blue ice that comes with the rubbermaid lunch blox's keep the food cold all day, that I don't even have to use the refrigerator at work (which is nice because it's on the other side of the floor). I also love how the rubbermaid lunch blox fits perfectly in the Fitmark bag. This has been working perfectly, which is so very nice. 

Cleaning and Laundry Routine

This, I have to admit, was the hardest adjustment for me. I love doing one load of laundry a day. I've been doing that for years and love it. I also was cleaning a little each day, so it wasn't too much in one sitting. With the commute and new work schedule, this had to change.

Instead of cleaning a little every day, I now clean 1x a week on the weekend. I also rotate, so I clean downstairs one week - then upstairs the second week. So, each area of the house gets touched once every 2 weeks (instead of once a week). I was worried about this... because I like cleaning each area at least 1x a week, but it was just too much to maintain with the new schedule. The house is still "picked up" every night, but just not cleaned. Since we are at the house less, it actually hasn't made a huge difference switching to every 2 weeks vs 1x a week. This is a work in progress... I might tweak again as I get used to things.

The laundry has been tough. I'm trying to do one load a day still... I've just switched the days I do them. The only day that I have a lot of laundry is when I do my clothes, since now I have a lot of work clothes and have multiple loads. I don't have time to fold during the week, so I try to save the big folding items for closer to the weekend. Here's the new laundry routine:

• M: Whites
• T: Cleaning Rags 
• W: Rotating Items (Throw blankets, bath mats, pet items) 
• Th: Towels 
• F: My Son's Clothes
• Sa: Sheets
• Su: My clothes (2-3 loads) + iron/steam work clothes for the week 

This may get tweaked again, but it seems to be working out OK thus far.

The Job

The new job is interesting. I'm still getting used to the work culture and the people. Supposedly I was hired as a "change agent" to help implement some changes to the department. However, the team I'm working with is HIGHLY resistant to change! Whenever I ask questions about the process, they are very defensive. If I suggest anything or throw an idea out, they push back on it before they even understand what I'm suggesting. <sigh> It's not "BAD" or anything! But it's going to be interesting as I get more comfortable and trained in their processes/procedures. Or when I actually start making concrete suggestions for improvement. The team has been doing it this way for years and all of them have been in the job for a long time, so they are very comfortable with how they do it - even if there's a more efficient way to manage it.

I do like the job and I know I can contribute a bunch. They are expecting me to take over the team in a few years, when the current manager retires. I'm basically shadowing her to learn everything she knows. The truth of it is, the industry/products are so complicated - so it'll probably take me 3 years or so before I really get all the ins and outs. But it'll only take me a few months to get down the procedures/processes.  She is planning to retire in 5 years and is hoping I'm up-to-speed by 3 years and then I'll be taking over the last 2 years, while she's there as a resource. It's a good plan on paper and makes sense. Will see how it all goes.

I am totally grateful for this job and for this opportunity. I know I will eventually be happy there. I left work on Friday feeling very satisfied with my work for the day and with everything I've learned thus far.

Well, that's my update on the new job and all the changes to my routine :) More to come, I'm sure.

Jobbing: 7 weeks unemployed + a Job Offer!!!

If you've been following my unemployment story and my job hunt, it hasn't been an easy road. On my update last week (week 6), I gave a breakdown down of the companies I've interviewed for. Here's an update:

Company #3: (the job I really want!) has given me a job offer!!!

Company #5: I have a scheduled interview with Company #5 for next week - I actually passed their Hirevue screening process (I was shocked!).

Back to the offer. I could say that I felt "confident" that I would get an offer... but I wasn't. It *looked* like they were leaning that way, as you don't go through 3 rounds of interviews if they're not interested in you! But when Monday came and I hadn't hear back... I began to worry.

Then Tuesday came around and still no call... until I received a late call from the HR Recruiter. She wanted to make sure that I haven't accepted any offers and what my salary requirements were.

OK.... so this whole job-hunting thing, I haven't even THOUGHT about getting to the point of salary negotiations. I've never had to salary negotiate before and I haven't researched it. I guess I should have... So, I was like "I'd be happy just to get an offer." Ugh. Totally cut my negotiating power right there! But what was interesting about the Recruiter is that me being a foster parent just slipped out during our conversation. Apparently she's interested in being a foster parent and asked me a bunch of questions about it. Totally side-tracking from the job offer / information. She told me that she would get back to me today after she negotiated my salary with the hiring manager. She also emailed me all the benefits information for medical/insurance/vacation/leave, etc.

I heard back from her earlier today and the salary being offered is pretty generous... I was shocked at how much they were offering me. It was more than I was making at my previous position (significantly) and more than any of the other jobs I interviewed for have offered me (most of the jobs have been a major pay cut). Right now my tentative start date is: 5/23!!! EEEK!!

I'm still going through paperwork and finalizing everything... but it's pretty much a done deal!

I have to tell you... when I was laid off, I cried a little - but I didn't let myself get consumed in depression/sadness over it. Instead I focused on finding a job. After I hung up with the recruiter and she gave me the info on the salary & start date ---- I was jumping up and down with major tears running down my face!!! I couldn't stop crying and thanking God. It's such a blessing to be given a job offer and a GOOD job offer at that. It's just amazing... all I could think about was "Now I can continue to provide for my family" and "we'll be ok."

I know I've only been laid off for 7 weeks... and there are people that take longer to find jobs. I was terrified that I would be one of those people not able to find a job in 6 months... or a year...  of more... I have absolutely no one I could rely on to help me out if something like that were to happen. Once my severance package ended, I would have been screwed. If I took unemployment, it wouldn't even cover half my bills. There was the potential to lose my house, my car, maybe even file for bankruptcy. It would've been that bad for me... This was "worse case scenario" thinking, but it was a total reality of where things would have led me if I couldn't find a job. I seriously have no family that could or would help me out. It's all on me. Which I never minded before... I'm pretty independent and comfortable with that. But now I have a son. A son I need to provide for, who relies on me and me alone.

That burden, that fear -- was sitting on my shoulders since I was laid off. That's why I was so determined and really hit the ground running the day of my layoff. I couldn't risk that worse case scenario from happening.... I just couldn't. I didn't want to put my son through that or not be able to provide for him. I didn't want to fail him. We just became a Forever Family... I had to do all I could do to make sure I could provide for him.

Now, having an actual job offer is such a relief... I will have financial security again. I will be able to provide for my family. The worse case scenario won't happen.

I am actually not even going to let myself feel too comfortable until all the new employee paperwork is competed. I just won't feel like it's a "for sure" thing until then. You know?

I have an interview scheduled next week with Company #5... I'm not going to cancel it until I complete all the pre-employment paperwork. It's my contingency. plan... It's a good job as well - so don't want to lose this opportunity if something were to happen with Company #3 during pre-employment paperwork. I don't see that happening... but you never know! Better safe than sorry until it's all finalized.

But man... things are looking up for sure! Praying that all goes well with paperwork and I can start to truly feel comfortable. Maybe I'll start sleeping better? Since the layoff I haven't slept very well.

Fingers crossed that this truly is IT!

Jobbing Updates: by the numbers 

• Submitted Applications: 34
• Call Backs: 3
• Email Confirmations (meet qualifications): 1
• Video Screening Request: 1
• Interviews: 4 (1 scheduled)
• Denial/Role Filled/Cancelled - Emails: 14
• OFFERS!!!! 1 

Jobbing: 6 weeks unemployed

Quick update on my job hunt. Week 5 of job hunting was disappointing. I received so many rejection emails in the one week and not ONE call back. I also am having a harder time finding positions that I meet the qualifications for. Then, I received a request for additional interviews from the "Big interview" I mentioned in my last update. Total, I've heard back from 5 companies on moving forward:

Company #1: received email that I qualify for the position (3/16), but still have not heard back on next steps. PENDING

Company #2: Interviewed (3/21) but was not offered the position. They asked that they could keep my resume on file. NO OFFER

Company #3: The job I really want! Had Round 1 interviews (4/5). Then had Round 2 interviews (4/14) with 3 senior executives. Then had a Round 3 phone interview (4/18) with the HEAD GUY! Heard back from the hiring manager saying they'll have a decision next week. Really hoping for this one! PENDING

Company #4: Had interview (4/6). Haven't heard back. PENDING

Company #5: Received email to do a Hirevue interview (4/17). Completed interview (4/19). I think I totally bombed this! It's such a strange format. They ask you 3 questions, you have 30 seconds to read the questions, then 3 minutes to answer it. The questions that were asked were odd and not really directly related to the position - so I didn't anticipate them. Not sure I'll make it past the impersonal video interview. PENDING

That's about it. More rejections vs moving forward. I really want the job with Company #3 and am hoping to get an offer next week. If I don't get an offer, I'm going to start reaching out to temp agencies/head hunters. There's not many jobs left I can apply for that my qualifications meet... I need to also start thinking outside the box on where I have transferable skills. Maybe temping will get me a foot in the door at a good company?

Guess will wait and see. Still waiting to hear back from a few more companies on my outstanding applications. Can't believe companies take so long to screen candidate resumes.

Feeling a little down on the job hunting front. I really would like to receive an offer or get more interviews than what I'm getting. It's frustrating. I'm doing my best not to let myself feel too down on the situation and keep moving forward.  Let's see...

Jobbing Updates: by the numbers 

• Submitted Applications: 29
• Call Backs: 3
• Email Confirmations (meet qualifications): 1
• Video Screening Request: 1
• Interviews: 3 
• Denial/Role Filled/Cancelled - Emails: 14

Jobbing: 4 Weeks Unemployed

Here's an  update on my Job Hunt. There has been fewer new job postings that meet my qualifications. There hasn't been much movement as far as NEW applications go. I also heard back from the first job that I interviewed for. Unfortunately, I didn't get offered the position. They said that they want to keep my resume on file though. I still need to call back the recruiter and ask her for feedback on the interview process. Planning to do that later this week.

I did have 2 interviews this week, this is how they went.

Interview #1

This was the "BIG" interview for the position that I really want! I wish I could say that everything went exactly as planned, but nope! Here's what actually happened.

I somehow hurt my left knee over the weekend. At first it was just a dull pain, nothing serious. Then Monday rolled around and I was in serious pain by the end of the day. I couldn't sleep because it hurt so bad and if I moved wrong, it caused more pain. I was so freaked over the pain and the thought of limping to my interview in heels, that I cried the night before the interview. Like why of all the days do I have to get some freak injury right before the BIG interview? A little sob fest never hurt anyone and I was in so much pain.

Nevertheless, I had to soldier on. I got my interview outfit out and steamed the wrinkles out, took out the jewelry I planned to wear to the interview, got my portfolio ready, purse ready, shoes ready. Then made plans to go to the pharmacy in the morning to get a knee brace and some pain meds.

The morning of the interview, I get the kids to daycare early so I could hit the pharmacy for my knee supplies. Crazy enough, the knee brace worked WONDERS! Putting it on made walking so much easier. I had plans to leave early so I could get there early, so I could relax in the general vicinity of my interview. It was a bit of a hike - 45-60 minute drive.

Well, while I was doing my hair (not dressed and no makeup) I received a phone call from the hiring manager that I was interviewing with. She called about 8:15am (my interview email said the interview started at 11am) to give me some parking instructions, then she said, "See you at 10!" I then asked her to clarify the interview time and told her the email said 11. She said, "Oh no, it's at 10. I need to talk to the recruiter. Can you get here by 10?"

At this point, my hair is only HALF-WAY straightened, still no make-up, still not dressed... and I had to drive 45-60 minutes just to get there. I'm a bit freaked out I'm not going to make it on time. I told her that it was a pretty far drive and didn't expect to get there that early. She was understanding and just said, "Ok, get here as soon as you can." I couldn't really tell that I wasn't dressed yet and was doing my hair/makeup! Ugh.

Well, I rush-straightened the rest of my hair - put on my makeup really fast - got dressed really fast - grabbed everything and ran out the door by 8:45... I did mention that I busted my knee, right? So it was like my body was moving in s-l-o-w motion while my brain was freaking out.  I ended up getting there at 9:30-ish and arriving on the floor of the interview at 9:40-ish. ON TIME! Woot!

Then, guess what? My interviewer was late coming to get me. LOL. Oh well, at least I was "on time" even though the HR recruiter totally screwed up on the email communication to me.

The interview was supposed to be 1.5 hours and I was to be interviewed by 3 people. The interviews ended up lasting about 2 hours. I thought they went really well! I was happy that I stayed in the same room the entire time, as it helped with my knee issue (you could hardly see the brace under my slacks).

Overall, I was really impressed with this company and with the position. Trying not to get my hopes up but I REALLY want this job! I sent Thank You emails the same night to each of the interviewers. I have to say, writing 3 different Thank You emails was pretty difficult! I didn't want them all to the say the same thing, as I was sending them individually, in case they compared. So I wrote 3 completely different emails.

Guess what, a few hours later - I received an email from the hiring manager asking me to write a one-page synopsis of my impression of the position and how my skills would fit. I was like, WHAT? I have never heard of a job asking to do that before. None of my friends have either... So, I spend the entire next day creating this one-page document. I didn't do a typical report-style one-pager. I tried to be creative, adding color and making it visually appealing by breaking up the text. Ugh. I hope it was what they were looking for. There was no direction at all on format, so I'm hoping I stand out from other candidates.

Next steps for this position: 2nd round interviews with senior management, if I passed this first round, which I hope I do!!

Interview #2 

This interview was by phone with the hiring manager. He's located in a different state, which is why it wasn't in-person. He was very talkative and very informative! He seems like a wonderful manager. This is also a position and company that I would love to work for.  Interestingly enough, he had no clue what the next steps were for the position. But sounds like there are internal candidates for the position. So, I'm not really sure what my chances are in getting an offer. This was one of my "stretch applications," which turns out I totally qualify. It's just that I lack direct industry knowledge. Guess will see how this one turns out.

It's been a busy week with interviewing! I am getting far less things done around the house due to my bad knee and because of all the prep work that goes into interviewing. I have to admit, I'm exhausted...!!!! I'm also starting to worry a bit about time ticking away on my severance package. I know I have time, but I would love to start working in May... June at the very latest! I haven't heard back from a lot of companies and it sounds like getting through interviews there will be maybe a 2 week wait to even know if I get an offer. Ugh. It's so crazy.

Unemployment sucks.

At least things seem to be moving along... I would love to get a few more callbacks for other applications I submitted to. But really, I would absolutely love an offer for the position where everything went absolutely wrong to get to the interview! I guess only time will tell how this will all play out.

For now, I wait. I apply. I pray. I hope. I imagine 100 different scenarios of my future. LOL. I can't help it, I'm such a planner! Every job I've thought about how life will change and what that'll look like for my family.

I can't wait to plan some concrete plans... and for my darn knee to get better. :(

Jobbing Updates: by the numbers 

• Submitted Applications: 27
• Call Backs: 3
• Email Confirmations (meet qualifications): 1
• Interviews: 3 
• Denial/Role Filled/Cancelled - Emails: 8

Jobbing: 3 Weeks Unemployed

I can't believe it's been 3 weeks since I was given notice that I would be laid off. Technically, my last "official day" was 3/25. Here's an  update on my Job Hunt.

I was on a good role on applying, then Munchkin got sick last week (Hand/Mouth/Foot disease), so the last week I've been pretty much on "Mommy-Duty" having both kids home with me for a week now. It was a bit of a nice relief on job-focus, to be honest. But it was also stressful because I felt like I should be applying, vetting job requirements, getting out there, etc.

The good news is: I received 2 more call backs last week!

1. I had a phone interview with the HR recruiter for one. I was only the second candidate that she spoke with. The job is FAR, but I really want it. It's the only position that I have received a call back for that exceeds my salary at my previous job. I'm waiting to hear back if I can get an interview with the hiring manager. 
2. I had a phone interview with the HR recruiter and she scheduled a phone interview for next week with the hiring manager. The hiring manage is out of state, that's why it's a phone interview vs in-person. The only issue with this job is that they said I was above their salary range for the position. However, the recruiter told me that they're having a really hard time filling the position... So, I may have a good shot at it. 

I'm still waiting for the results of the other interview I had. 

So, I'm making progress - moving forward. Vetting applications, I feel like I've exhausted almost ALL the positions that are within my niche of qualifications. I've started applying for some "stretch" positions - jobs that I have transferrable skills and I know I would be good at - but not sure Ill get call backs for those. 

I'm trying not to entertain the idea of NOT getting a job offer... or not finding a job within my qualifications. But the fear lingers with me in my "worst case scenario" thoughts. 

Unemployment is no joke... It's a scary place to be. I'm trying my hardest to be proactive and positive. I'm also trying not to be too "desperate" to find a new job. But it's hard, so very hard not to panic. 

Moving on and moving forward. Trying my hardest to trust in God that all will be ok. 

Jobbing Updates: by the numbers 

• Submitted Applications: 27
• Call Backs: 3
• Email Confirmations (meet qualifications): 1
• Interviews: 3 
• Denial/Role Filled/Cancelled - Emails: 6

Jobbing: My First Interview + Job Search Status

It's been 2 weeks since I lost my job. Tracking my Job Hunting adventures on my blog wasn't expected. I really wanted my blog to be about trying to have a baby and about building my family. Which in a way relates to having a family, since financial stability plays a huge role for a single parent household trying to add to my family. 

Blogging about being laid off is difficult for me, but it's keeping me motivated so I can keep moving forward and trudging along. Here's an update as I finish the 2nd week of unemployment. 

I had my first job interview yesterday! Questions that ran through my mind:

What do I wear? 

How should I style my hair? 

What kind of makeup should I wear? 

Should I wear any jewelry? 

Should I have prepared some typical interview questions?

Will I be able to answer questions on the fly?  

Try not to fidget. 

Try not to look nervous. 

Don't mess with your hair during the interview! 

Don't forget to smile - make sure no lipstick is on your teeth! 

Nervous...? Oh yeah. 

I think the interview went extremely well. I was pretty on top of answering the questions. I did prepare a few questions for them about the position/company ahead of time, which I strategically positioned throughout the interview. I was interviewed by two managers that if offered the position, I would be working directly with. One was very talkative and friendly, liked her from the start. The other one was nice, but not as open - although when he liked what I said, it was very noticeable. 

I did something that I have never done before and that's asking for the job at the end. I basically told them that I would love to work for their company and would be excited for an offer (in so many words). I don't know WHY I did that or what came over me, I'm not normally this aggressive with things. Or maybe I am now, being in fun-employment mode? Who knows. 

I should hear back in a few weeks about the position. I sent my "Thank You" email today to the managers. 

What's great about interviewing is that it gave me some of my confidence back. Being laid off really puts a hit on your confidence level. I now feel much better about my potential to interview and about finding the right fit for me. I don't feel "as" panicked. Although it's still there... that lingering "OMG, WTF am I going to do?!" feeling. It was easy to focus on other things recently with preparing for the interview, my son's baptism, starting my FET cycle, finding jobs to apply for, updating my resume, updating LinkedIn, etc etc etc. 

But NOW, things are starting to slow down and the reality of it all is slowly creeping into the crevices of my mind.  I am freakin unemployed for the first time in forever! I've been working since I was 16 years old. Besides a few months break here and there for transitions in moving (going to college, relocating to a new state) I have been employed for most of that time. It just feels so strange and surreal, in a not good way. Did I ever think I would be here? Maybe. But I don't think I was prepared for the reality of it or expected it to happen right after I adopted my son and when I am trying to have a baby. The timing truly sucks. 

I'm not eating very well. I'm not sleeping very well. I'm trying, but it's just hard to concentrate on those things when all these things feel like they're caving in on me. 

I'm dealing with it the best that I can and going in the right direction to try and find new employment. 

Dear Economy,  

Please do not hit a recession until I find a new job! I would truly appreciate it.  

Thank you!  

Me - Who was recently sent into fun-employment 

Jobbing Updates: by the numbers 

• Submitted Applications: 15
• Call Backs: 1
• Email Confirmations (meet qualifications): 1
• Interviews: 1
• Denial Emails: 3

Most of the job applications I've submitted for are really good fits for my qualifications. Some are a bit of a stretch, I have the transferable skills - but not sure I'll make it past the resume screening. Really hoping to hear back from a few more applications this week. Fingers/Toes crossed...!

I thought receiving Denial Emails would sting. They actually don't... I was surprised at one denial email that came back within an hour of submitting my application to a job that I totally qualify for. So either: they have enough candidates to interview, they've already filled the role, they have an internal candidate, or I really just wasn't what they were looking for. That was my only "surprise," but it didn't sting.

Just to add to things, it doesn't look like I'll get my severance package changed. They had packaged me for 11 years of service. I was 2 months from 12 years of service, but HR is saying that they will not change it. I'm contesting it, but it's not looking likely. Bummed and a little PO'd about that. But just have to let it go. I am truly grateful for having a severance package at all... but after the years I've given that company - I guess I expected a little better from them. 

Jobbing To Do's: 

• I have a bunch of other job positions that I need to vet through. 
• Still need to look into volunteering. 
• Look into getting temp work (which might be difficult with my FET cycle)
• Check into going through a head hunter.  

I truly believe that the right job will come along and that I have a lot to offer a company. I've been praying a lot on this and trying to trust this path will lead me where I am meant to be. I'm trying to Carpe Diem and all that. Trust in God. 

Jobbing: I have my first interview!

It's been one week since being laid off and I feel like I haven't had a moment's rest.

Creating a Jobbing Schedule 

To keep myself organized, I have created a spreadsheet of "opportunities" and submitted applications. I'm also creating a schedule to keep me on track, but also allowing me to do other things - to avoid over-obsessing or getting caught up on the computer for 12 hours at a time. I haven't really been able to implement this schedule due to having a visitor stay with us for my son's baptism and then Munchkin getting sick. But it's in the works when things "calm down." Strange how it's so chaotic all of a sudden.

Job Hunting 

I've been trying to do "target" job hunting, where I'm focused on specific jobs that I know I qualify for or have transferrable skills. Originally I was going to aim more towards "Changing my Career" and totally change directions. But I don't really have the time to do that, with having to support my family. So sticking to what I know and can do is the direction that I'm going.

• Applications Submitted: 7 
• Call Backs: 1 
• Email Confirmation: 1 
• Interviews: 1 scheduled 

I was so excited when I received my first call back! It was for one of the positions that is a "perfect fit." Plus, it was a "cold application" meaning I didn't have an "in" at the company. I wasn't sure I would hear back at all. I received a call from the recruiter, she went over the position, the salary, then said she would contact the manager and see if she wanted to move forward with an interview. Then a few hours later, they set-up the interview for next week! Seems to be moving fast, but I'm happy about that. I need to really focus on preparing for this interview. It's a great company, a great position, there are growth opportunities. I'm very hopeful, I just need to nail this interview.

Then I received an email confirmation for another job saying that I passed their first screening and qualify for the position. That I may or may not be contacted for an interview. So, we'll see about that one.

There are two positions that I applied for that I had been referred by a friend. I'm really hoping to get call backs on those two positions, as they are also good fits at good companies.

I'm relieved that I have forward movement. I was afraid that I wouldn't get any call backs.

How I'm feeling? 

It's a strange thing being laid off. I feel all this pressure and can easily find myself getting upset vs. being proactive and moving forward. I have a lot of worries of "what if" that I'm trying not to let myself entertain. I'm trying extremely hard to stay optimistic and trying to convince myself that everything will turn out OK.

But it's harder said than done.

I have moments of complete panic, moments of anger, moments of not knowing what to do next, moments where I imagine the worst possible scenario playing out. It's hard to prevent the concern from creeping in every now and then. I could quite possibly worry myself into the ground if i don't stop myself at times. I've been praying a lot. Trying to focus on my blessings. Trying to keep moving forward.

I try to "live in the moment," but there's this "unemployment cloud" following me everywhere making it hard to forget about it, even just for a moment. My friend said to think of it as a "Fun-employment." LOL. I had to give that one a laugh, I wish it could be a "fun" time...

I got laid off yesterday

Yesterday started off like any other Tuesday. Then, at 7:30am I received a ping from my manager asking if I was available for a phone call. I responded with "yes" and she called me shortly after that. I knew something was up because my manager and HER manager were on the phone. I greeted them with morning cheer and was received with not so happy tones. 

My first reaction was thinking I was in trouble for something, which I quickly assessed that I didn't technically do anything wrong in my position - so had a feeling I knew what was coming. 

They quickly got into the conversation that there were workforce reductions all across the company and that our team was impacted. Then they said that my position was impacted and that I was being let go. 

It was a strange feeling, initially I think I was angry. I had questions on my severance package and they didn't have answers for me. So, I was being laid off and had no clue what my severance package looked like. That was irritating. 

They told me that I had about an hour before my access to the computer would be revoked and that I should email myself any personal documents I had on my laptop. That I would receive a call later by the admin with instructions on how to return my company equipment. 

My gut reaction was to sympathize for the managers on having to give this "news" to their employees. I even said, "This must be difficult for you." 

The call ended and I started emailing myself my resume, along with benefits contact information. My access didn't get revoked after the hour, so I just logged off. 

I received a call later from the admin, who was in tears!, because she had to deal with all the people that were laid off. I also have a good relationship with her, so she was compassionate. I immediately went into "comfort-mode" to make sure she was ok. 

Then today, I shipped back all my company equipment, along with my corporate card, and ID. I received my severance package as well. My package was for 11 years... which I'm 2 months away from 12 years. My manager had said that I should get the 12 years. I need to contest this with the company. 

That was that. Almost 12 years with this company and I was finally impacted by a mass layoff. 

I have to admit, today I woke up in semi-panic mode. What was I going to do? 

Moving Forward and Making Plans

I didn't sit idle all day yesterday or let myself get into a funk and feel sorry for myself. Instead, I started updating my resume. I had some really nice friends that said they could review my resume for me. So here's what I did: 

1. Updated my resume, having friends review it, so it'll be getting updated a bunch I'm sure. 
2. Updated my LinkedIn profile with my revised resume info. Added a picture as well. 
3. Prepared for a Career Fair (which was TODAY!) 
4. Searched for jobs online to see what was out there. 
5. Researched how to approach Career Fairs (been awhile since I attended) and techniques on interviewing.
6. Looked up how Unemployment Benefits work in my state (didn't get much info) 
7. Searched for upcoming career fairs. Can you believe that there are about 5 this month?! Good timing.  

Today: 

1. I attended the Career Fair. Some notes from that... I was overqualified for most of the positions. There are a few potential "lead" companies that may have positions that I would be interested in. 
2. Searched more companies online. 

To-Do: 

1. Send Thank-You emails to all the recruiters I spoke to today at the career fair. 
2. Update my resume some more/then make the changes on LinkedIn. 
3. Add my volunteer leadership roles to LinkedIn. 
4. Check out the company job listings from the career fair that seemed possible. 
5. Call HR and contest my severance package. 
6. Research companies that will be at the career fair tomorrow and check out which jobs they have open.  
7. Post my resume online at Indeed.com and Monster (others?) 
8. Make a list of companies that I am interested to work for and look up their job openings. 

This whole situation feels odd to me. For one, I can totally change my career and find something that I love to do. Which in a way is exciting and thrilling. I wasn't really happy at my job... But at the same time, I worry about maintaining a comparable salary. So, do I switch career paths and take a major pay cut? Or do I find a similar type of company and apply for a similar type job? 

Believe it or not, these are tough choices to think about. If this truly is an OPPORTUNITY and a way to have a FRESH START. Shouldn't I find something that I would be proud doing and love doing? Like, I would really love to work for a company that services Adoptions or Foster Care. I have a passion there (being a foster parent and being an adoptive parent). However, the positions are extremely low on the salary level. <sigh> So much to think about and consider. 

I'm jumping right in so I can get my feet wet. I haven't interviewed externally or internally for years! I don't even know what's out there or if something else will spark my interest. It's all uncharted territory. 

Not to mention, I've been trying to have this baby for over a year... what do I do now? I'll save that for another post... 

I'll be tracking my Job Hunt on this blog. Mostly to keep my focused and determined to get a new job before my severance period ends.