Tis The Season.....To Get A Job

Well.....the JOG is happy to report that I got a job. A real, honest to goodness job. AND....I didn't even have to go in to interview for it (I worked with the Hiring Manager at a previous company). How do you like them apples?

Now....I know you're saying, "What the Hell? Why were you stressing so much? It seems that you always find jobs." Well, I must say that I am pleased that I got the freelance gig at the advertising firm and now a full-time open-ended freelance (Work from home - eat it!) position at an experiential marketing firm but let me tell you....I worked damn hard to find these and I honestly didn't know I'd find anything because everything I was interviewing for was suddenly taken away from me. I was making too much money. Interviews kept being rescheduled. No one wanted to give me any sort of flexibility but rather work harder for less money. That's what I was finding. When I was lucky enough to hear about this job I was really excited. Mind you, concessions have been made. I am not making video game company money but I'm making FINE money and more importantly, I get the work/life balance that I crave. Not having to take the dog into daycare every day....not paying to make a commute every day....not worrying that I won't be able to go to the gym when I want to go....these are all Nots that I won't have to worry about with this new position.

So, January 4th I officially start but I don't have to go into the office until Tuesday the 5th. I'm excited. I'll still do some part-time stuff from home to try and make even more money. And 2010 is also the year that I said I'd do another show. How great to not have to worry about rushing to pick up William before rehearsals. I'm just......geeked. So excited. I networked the crap out of everyone and I'm happy to report that this is how I landed my job. Networking.

I will still be checking in with the JOG every now and then to update everyone as the time goes. This has been a wonderful, therapeutic, often bitch session way for me to get my frustrations out. Finding a job ain't easy....especially in the the world we live in today. But I've found that by broadcasting to everyone that I am looking, being nice to everyone who sends me their resume and just never giving up means you too can be employed.

hire me

I'm Expensive

Not having a lot of luck LANDING a job. I'm having luck being contacted about jobs and interviewing but as soon as they know my current rate and past salary they seem to run for the hills.....and I don't even make that much. I mean, I make a decent living....probably better than a lot of people. But for what I do and the sense of urgency in which I work AND how I save companies a lot of money not having to use a lot of staffing firms and/or job postings, I think I'm paid fairly.

But I guess the recruiting market has dropped...quite a bit. I'm overqualified and I'm not even that old. I'm old...but not THAT old.

I had a great phone interview yesterday. It was with a former co-worker of mine. I REALLY want this job. He said he REALLY thinks I'd be great BUT he's having a hard time trying to justify the numbers. Ugh. I'm going to lose out because I make too much money. Now....flex, you say? Well...I would....but I can't flex too much because I won't be getting benefits and I still have a mortgage and a car lease and many other bills....and a lot of people in my industry make more money than me with less experience. How much does one decrease their value to work? I don't know the answer to that.

I've seen the job market pick up quite a bit. But I think for what I do it's picking up and reverting back to 1999/2000.

I have another phone interview today. I am praying that it goes well. Pray for me that it goes well. I'm good at what I do and really shouldn't be unemployed. I don't mind working. I don't mind it at all. I like adding value to a company. But I'm worried...worried because my last day is Tuesday and I truly don't have anything lined up and it's the holidays. So.....2010 had better be MY year. I need it.

Tonight I will sing along to Barry because I can't smile without you.....you or a job!

HIRE ME!

Single White Female Looking For.....Work!

How come my last post didn't.....post? Huh.

Last week was a busy interview week. Talked to 2 companies (one in person and one over the phone) and set up a second interview with another company. Out of the three opportunities, I really want one of them. I'm 50/50 on another and I really don't think I want the third but I want to see what they have to say. These are a mix: contract...contract to hire and direct-hire.

I feel like I had a lot going on last week but the realistic Me is worried that I still may not land anywhere anytime soon. I've decided to let myself ENJOY a little time off. It's the holidays and I can't get too worked up (no pun intended) until Jan 1. Then I can let the crazy worried Dori out. But until then: Work my last week and 2 days at the ad agency and know I did a great job and continue to interview and look for new opportunities. See some movies, be with family and hang out with my friends. 2010 is going to be a good year. Start of a new decade. I'm ready for it.....with or without a job. Bring it!

The Bears suck. **This is just a side note and has nothing to do with the integrity of the JOG.**

HIRE ME (It's time to bring out the big guns)

Dissapointing The Dissapointment

Last week seemed like a very promising week in the old job hunt. This week....not so much. Granted, it's only Monday but I have heard from none of my things that I was presented with last week and this always gets me frustrated. I guess I can't hear back from a "thing" but the people who presented me these "things"....nada!

I do know that one company asked for my references so I thought that was promising but who knows.

I did get a chance to speak with my former KPMG Partner about his biz venture and that seems promising. I just don't know how much I'll get paid to assist him. I don't want to do a lot of work for nothing, but I feel like this could lead to other opportunities.

I'm also getting a little antsy about payment. I haven't been paid by my at home contract job and this is frustrating....and scary. I don't want to have to chase money. For this reason, I'm leaning more and more the ways of getting a FT job...or at least a FT contract job at a larger company instead of taking on many PT contract gigs. Ugh....I'm totally starting to feel the pressure. Also, do I stop my work for the at home job or continue? Ack! Lots to think about.

Hire Me!

Moving And Grooving

My dog is going to be on TV. I will be on as well (at least we filmed a segment...not sure if either of us will make it). Sunday night at 10:30pm. 190 North. Check it out.

I have a phone interview on Wednesday for a different ad agency. I'm looking forward to it. I've been called a couple times about other positions but for one reason or another they weren't a fit for me. This is the first job that I'm actually excited about. I'm wishing myself luck. Good luck, Dori.

It's really busy at my freelance job. A part of me is really going to miss it and another part is excited (and of course nervous) about the future. Today was a rough day so I'm more excited about leaving than I probably will be 12/22.

In the meantime, my part-time work from home contract continues. Things may be picking up a bit there as well. I don't think it'll last past December of this year but I'm trying as hard as I can to bill a lot of hours and hopefully fill the positions they have open so maybe they'll use me again in the future.

Also, continuing my part to help out friends and strangers pay it forward. My business is Linkedin. Linkedin is my business.

Deep.

Hire Me

In Motion

My last day at the ad agency is definite. 12/22. I wish it weren't so but all signs point to yes.

I asked my boss if I could use her as a reference and she kind of hesitated. I was a little shocked but then found out why: She's not allowed to give references. It's a policy of the agency. BUT, she told me to give them (any company I need a reference) her number and she'd talk to them. I hope this is the case, because....

I have an hour long phone interview with another ad agency next Tuesday. I think this could be a really good thing for me. It's a full-time position (so no freelancing) but from the job description I think I'd be a really good fit for it. As long as I can stay in a creative environment (or work from home for a non-creative or do short term for a non-creative) I'll be OK.

I also had a conversation over email with the former Partner I supported at the public accounting firm. He could have a need for me next year. as well Again....a lot of this is all up in the air but it seems that things are picking up a bit.

I'm still doing work for the video IP company and just set up a phone interview for tomorrow for them. And there's still the possibility that I could get work with the sales/marketing firm (work from home PT) so I guess as of today, it's all good.

I'm just going to continue talking to everyone and networking up a storm. It's the name of my game.

Gobble Gobble

Hire Me

Am I Jealous Of The Rogue?

As I'm typing this I'm watching the Palin/Oprah interview. I am not a fan of either so the interview is rather painful for me but I felt like I needed to watch it. My synopsis? BORING. No big revelations just 2 annoying dames shooting the sh*t.

As I watch I wonder how Sarah Palin could run for the VP office and write a book where I'm sure she was paid a hefty price for and I will again be unemployed in Dec? I don't want to whine as I'm sure Ms. Palin has worked very hard for where she is.....at least I hope she has but I'm a little dumb founded as to how she's where she is and I'm where I am. Life is a struggle and it seems for some (who I see as less deserving) maybe it's not so much. Though I do wish her well with her son who has down syndrome and is cute as a button. Dealing with that must be tough.

Anyway....onto the JOG: I got a couple calls this week about new contracts but nothing to write home about. One (a referral from a HS friend) is trying to find a Biz Development Manager (hope to get more info this week). It'd be like 5-10 hrs a week working from home and I am more than happy to assist. I hope that one pans out. The other I couldn't do as they need someone to start 12/1 and I'm committed to the ad agency until 12/22. I just hope the market opens up for next year. I think it will. I just need to stay positive.

I've been receiving a lot of referral resumes of people looking for jobs. I'm trying to forward those onto people I know in the biz but I just can't help everyone....and that's tough for me. I saw a guy filling out an application at a coffee shop today. He looked a little disheveled and I have to say my heart went out to him. People are doing their best to survive in this economy and we all have to take stock in what we have and be thankful. So my life isn't about making a cool mill for a book that I probably didn't even write. I have a job that I adore (for now), a roof over my head, food, a wonderful traveling companion, a doggie that is the best! and friends and family that are so unbelievably supportive. What else do I need/want?

Hire Me

What Do you Mean I Sound Like A Loon?

I just made my case to my boss as to why I should stay at the ad agency. I don't know how it went over as I was nervous! When I started out (it was literally a spur of the moment decision) I was like "yeah....this is the right thing to do. I know exactly what I want to say." Then as I opened my mouth I heard my voice trembling. I was a Nervous Nelly. I hate that. In any case, I made my argument and she seemed open to hearing me out and was smiling a lot (while inside probably saying, "What the Hell is she talking about? Look at how nervous she is. She's nuts if she thinks we're extending her). If I don't get extended, she did confirm that my last day will be 12/22. Huh. Why is this all not a reality to me yet? The thought of going somewhere else is a little unappealing and not all fathomable.

In any case, I have a phone interview today for a full-time position with an online university. Yes. Another one. I really don't want to go this route but feel I need to hear what they have to say because it could be some amazing opportunity.

I also got a lead on a short term contract from a girl I went to HS with. Not sure if that's an option, but again, it's nice to know people are thinking about me and that there are a couple of things of note.

Why when I really like my life and things are good at work does it have to change? Life. She's a crazy dame.

Hire Me

Jig Jag JOG

What the huh? So, I'm actively passively looking. That's what I'll call it. I don't have a ton of time to go through Monster posts or anything like that (as it's usually a huge waste of time anyway) but will take time to network with folks and apply to jobs that are emailed to me that seem to say "Dori Goldman" all over them. None of these are options....meaning, I haven't heard squat from any of them. One was a referral from a former co-worker and she (Hiring Manager) was nice enough to email when I sent her my resume and tell me that I possessed most of the qualities they were looking for "in spades" and I would hear from her "soon". That was October 30th. Now, I don't like to bug people and totally understand the "He/She is just not that into you" philosophy when it comes to job hunting so I politely sent an email just checking in to remind her that she at one time gushed over my qualifications but that I hadn't heard from her in a week and a half.

And we're off......

I can't get too nervous because I still have time but I know how hard it is to get something lined up in this economy so the harder I work now the better I'll be come January 2010. Plus, without any pay for the holidays, my sense of urgency rises even more. Freelancing is great: except for the no coin on holidays and a little thing called no health insurance.

I did sign up for pet insurance today. Not for me, mind you (I'm sure you all were thinking that!) but for my wondrous pup. No matter what, he's covered for a year. Now, if I can just get myself taken care of.....

Hire Me

How Does My Garden Grow?

After applying to a job I thought I was perfect for and getting another referral for a job that I may not be perfect for but could certainly be considered for and hearing NOTHING I'm already ready to give up. Not the best attitude to have, huh? The second job I mention looked a little more promising as the Hiring Manager emailed to tell me she thought my experience looked great and that she'd "call me early next week". That was Friday and today is Wednesday NIGHT and no word. I should be used to this by now but it does get frustrating. I know I still have about a month and a half at the ad agency but I am proactive. I'm no fool. I know it takes a while to find a job and that's why I start early....but I wish I didn't stress as much as I do.

I really like the ad agency. I'm trying to plant little seeds in people's minds to maybe retain me but I know once their regular recruiter is back there really won't be a need for me....unless I can pitch an all around Project Manager to them. Not sure it'll fly but I'll try. (rhyme unintended) Not only am I good at sourcing and hiring, but I'm great at keeping things and everyone organized and on track. I am trying to leverage these skills to show my worth. I wouldn't even mind working there on a reduced work schedule (even less than I am now) until February. February is when the Recruiter from the gaming company I'd like to work for goes on maternity leave. It would be awesome if I could get that gig but as with everything else, I can't bank on it. I contacted her yesterday and she told me to follow up with her after the first of the year (which I'll do) but it's scary. It's scary to feel so safe and comfortable now but in a couple months to feel panic at the thought that I will not have any income....except for Unemployment. Rawr.

Until then....I will keep plugging away. This is what I do. Plug.

On a brighter note, the guy that I found on Linkedin who was hired today by the Video IP company told me he owes everything to me. He had been out of work for about 5 months. Scenarios like this make me happy that I do what I do. I don't get tons of these moments but when I do I draw great pleasure. I'm happy for him. Now....share the wealth.

Hire Me

And The Search Begins.....Again

Hello November.

This is the month I said I would start looking for new work. Basically, all of October I didn't really think about it. A couple people sent me leads but I didn't do too much with them.

Today was the first time I did a search to see what was out there and there was.....nothing. Nothing nothing. Not like a little something but Nada. I knew that this may be the case and that's why I'm trying to bank a lot of hours but let me tell you....all those hours I thought I was working? They don't add up to a lot of dough and I make a fairly good hourly rate. I have to pay for Cobra and any time off I get I don't get paid for it. I can't deny that I'm getting a little concerned. Luckily, I will be able to go on Unemployment in January but that's not really a consolation since it's so little. I also reached out to the gaming company I wanted to work for a couple months ago, "Hi....it's me, Dori. Just writing to check in. DO YOU NEED ME???"

So....I'm being proactive and will apply to things that come my way and continue to network. I'm trying to stay in some form of a creative realm. I'm also trying to freelance but if a great FT job came my way I will not turn my nose at it. I'm here until December (not sure of my exact end date) but today has been pretty slow. If they start cutting my hours, that could be a concern.

So....I'm raising the "threat level" of my search to High.

Hire Me

My Reality

Here I sit writing my JOG, working my at-home gig and watching The City. Those faux career NY girls. Great clothes. "Working" in high fashion. Being all glamorous. Huh. Who are these dames??? This is so not "reality" but I do enjoy watching. My reality is getting up at 6:30am, maybe washing my hair and maybe not, throwing on jeans and commuting to work (about 1 hr with dropping the dog off, parking my car and hopping on the el), working until 5pm (sometimes 3pm on my gym days), going home, feeding the dog and working again. While at my day job I'm certainly fabulous but I'm definitely not glamorous. In a way, I wish I was on The Hills or The City but then I reality check myself and say F that noise. I'm a true worker. I don't need Jimmy Choo to get me through the day. All I need is an Amy's frozen meal. I'm in the biz of helping people make a living. I find people jobs. Some have been out of work for awhile and really need the money. Those I can't help who are in dire situations I feel awful for. I have always been a pretty envious person but I often step back and give myself props. When someone contacts me thanking me for forwarding a resume and getting them a job it gives me a lot of joy. This is my reality. This is my City.

OK....this may be a dumb post. Drivel. But it's hard for me to think while I watch Whitney blather on about boys from Connecticut. You try and multi-task. I dare you.

hire me

When The Money Started Trickling In

I got my paycheck from the Video IP company so now I've received 2 checks (not very much mind you) for my work as a freelancer and I really like the feeling. It makes me want to try harder and harder to make this freelance thing work.

Am I naive since I'm not overly worried right now about finding my next gig? Should I be hustling? I feel so....complete with these 2 jobs and again (like Midway) I don't want it to end but I know it will. I love the Ad agency and I really enjoy the Video IP co. Right now it's not a reality that I will not be doing this in a couple months. But there's a big part of me that's excited to go out there and find a new gig. I feel like it's what I'm born to do. How odd, huh? But with finding so many other people jobs, why not do this for myself as a career? And the thought that I'd also maybe get to take some time off would be so cool. The downside is I won't get paid for the time off....but maybe I can work really hard when I'm employed and bank that money away for when I'm not (like a month here and a month there). I'm just going to keep thinking that this will work. It will work.

TGIF (tomorrow) doesn't really have the same effect on me but I still really appreciate it.

hire me

You Search. I Find. I Place.

Oh JOG....I have not forgotten about you. It's just tougher to update now that I have not one but TWO freelance gigs.

I'm hanging in there but it's rough. I'm tired....like exhausted....a LOT. I'm still keeping up with my workouts to coincide with my work schedule but there are days like....Wednesdays that I may need to give up so I can go home earlier and relax.

It's not like I'm working a ton of hours (I think it works out to about 45 or so a week) but with commuting to and from work and then the gym schedule, I feel like my TV/relaxing time is very limited. Sometimes I just want to take a nap.

People are contacting me right and left thru Linkedin. I changed my status to someone who loves to find people jobs. A Networking fool. Due to that I'm getting requests from all over the world in terms of helping them find jobs. I'm trying to respond to everyone but sometimes it's tough if I don't have any connections in their field. I'm hoping to parlay this into a consulting/freelance career for myself. If I'm the one that everyone goes to to find work, wouldn't I be worth your company bringing on for the short term to get your staff hired and then move onto the next assignment? We shall see.

I'm enjoying be a networking "guru" of sorts. I like having a ton of connections and if I can help to find you a job then it only looks good for me.

OH....and at the Ad agency, I'm filling a lot of their jobs with folks from Linkedin. Linkedin is a resource I was told that they use but just not a ton. Well....I'm bringing it back, baby.

That last statement was a little obnoxious, but what can I say? It's one of those days.

hire me

Rainy Days and Thursdays Always Get Me Down

I just spit out my lunch because it was so unbelievably hot. But the crazy thing is as soon as I spit it out (just popped it in but didn't start chewing or anything like that) I went to put it back in my mouth. What the heck is going on with me?!

Having a weird day. Today's the first day since I've been at the ad agency that I don't LOVE it. Maybe it's the weather? Not sure. I'm not as busy so that may have something to do with it. I know I still like it here so I'll chalk it up to a bad day.

Oh, I did get my first paycheck since being laid off from Midway so that's a bonus. Well....no bonus was in the check but getting a paycheck is always a bonus in my book. It's only for 16 hrs of work so it's not a lot but it's something and I know there will be more where this one came from.

I've been thinking about when I'll need to start "working it" for my next freelance gig? November? Beginning of or late? Hmm....still thinking it over. I do have the one video game lead but not sure if it's still on the table. I don't want to check in with her too soon but also don't want to miss out on the opportunity.

Tonight I get to go to the gym and "Group Groove". Watch out peeps cuz I am ready to cut up the "dance floor".

hire me

Long Time No Jog

Wow...it's been almost a week since I've Jogged. Huh. I miss you JOG.

Got back from a fun vacay to NYC and now it's full steam ahead with the work.

Still haven't received any unemployment money. Since today was a holiday I need to call tomorrow to see What Is Up? My boss got his $$. Where's mine?

I haven't been paid from any of my jobs as of yet. I think I get money from the ad agency this week and it is really needed. I think it's been 4 weeks since I've received any money. Could this be right??? And the Video IP company may not pay me until the end of Oct. Rough.

Got my former Midway coworker an interview tomorrow at the ad agency. Also, I've been getting emails and calls from random people wanting me to give them career advice and to help them find jobs. Is there a career out there for this? Can I charge people for my advice? Usually one charges the company. I'm thinking about this but don't have any answers yet. All I know is that I'm getting the word out that I am looking for contract work. Only contract work. Spread the word.

hire me

The Work Haze

Let me tell you.....work is draining. I'm pooped. Exhausted. I love the ad agency. I feel like I'm really helping them and am doing a great job. I think they're pretty happy with me. But I'm so tired. The other contract is harder. I have no face time and I'm dealing with people in Canada and the states. I don't have access to anyone's calendars and it's tough to schedule interviews. But, I have found a few candidates for them to interview so I'm pleased. I just will be happy when I don't have two jobs. With the commute I feel like I don't have time for much else. I'm still finding time to work out but I'm exhausted when I'm at the gym. Also, you know what's suffering with my two jobs? TV. I can barely keep up with all the TV I DVR. Now I'm sure most people would scoff at this but let me tell you....I adore my TV.

Also, I need to sign up for Cobra. Must do this before I leave for NY....on Thursday. OY! Too much to do. Too tired. I need to go to sleep.

Did any of this make sense?

hire me

Take This Moment In

Sometimes I feel like I just....go through life.....not really noticing things around me or taking time to appreciate...anything. I wake up every morning and it's a lot like Ground Hog's Day. I remember being in Paris and taking a moment every now and then and "taking it in". I would remind myself to be present in this moment because I don't want to forget it. I wanted to "feel it". I don't do that nearly enough in my every day life. Most of the time I'm just tired. Weary. I know I'm not alone in this feeling.

The Ad agency is going well. I really feel like I'm helping them and making a difference. The other contract is a little less rewarding as I feel like I'm a one woman show and I'm not getting any feedback. I emailed my contact today asking him for some follow up and feedback. If I don't get either it's really not worth my time to do the work. Don't get me wrong, I'm not looking for accolades but rather information on candidates I submit. Thus far I've received nuthin'. Hello.

I've started to get into a work schedule and it's comforting (wake up, drop the dog off at daycare, take the train downtown, work, take the train back up North, get my car, go to the gym, pick up the dog and go home). I do wake up earlier than I did when I went to Midway but strangely I don't feel as tired.

I'm talking to my former boss tomorrow. I like staying in touch with him. I really hope our paths cross again.

That's the update for now.

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Marcia Brady Had Nothing On Me

This morning my dog went to jump on the bed as I was leaning down to tie my shoes. We banged together as we both were rising and for a moment I thought my nose was broken. It's not. But I heard a crack and got nervous. Tears started to form in my eyes as I'm sure would happen if most people were cracked in the nose. Now it hurts but I don't see a lot of bruising....yet. This has nothing to do with my job/job search but I thought I'd throw it in for some "JOG effect".

I'm really trying to balance both contracts. I know over the next 3 months I'll be working much harder than I have over the past year or so. What's tough is waiting for others to give me the information I need to do my at home contract. I could have easily put in 3-4 hours today (probably more if I really wanted to) but because I'm waiting on information from my contact I won't be able to do much today. This is tough because tomorrow I work a full day at the Ad agency. With commute and picking up the dog and such it'll be rather late before I arrive home. I'm finding that I'm not going to have a lot of relaxing TV time and that worries me. I need my relaxation time as I'm sure most do.

But I am thankful to have both of these jobs and hope to make a lot of money so come January if I don't have anything lined up I'll still be OK.

I call in for my first unemployment numbers on Tuesday. I believe I'll be eligible for at least 1 if not 1 1/2 weeks of UI. Bring on those dollars. I could use em!

hire me

Calgon Take Me Away

So, today was one of the longest, most intense work days of my life and I have a feeling that it's going to continue for a least a couple more weeks. The girl who I'm covering a maternity leave for was told that she has to be on bed rest. This means I got 50 mins with her today. 50 mins to go over ALL of what's happening in terms of the Ad agency recruiting. I knew something like this would happen. Luckily, the HR Manager is awesome and is helping me decipher who's who and what processes I need to follow.

I have no time for Facebook or personal email, which is good. I wouldn't charge them for that time anyway but I seriously didn't have time to breathe.

I'm running the whole recruiting dept for multiple companies and have no clue who most of the people are (Hiring Managers) and very little knowledge of who's currently interviewing and who I still need to source for them. This is kind of like the Actor's Nightmare for me but maybe more Worker's Nightmare to be more accurate. OY!

Tomorrow I'm only supposed to work until 1pm but I have a feeling I'll be there a lot longer.

I also did 1.15 hours for the Video IP co.

Work. I wanted this, right? I do like making money. I just hope doing both of these contracts won't be the death of me.

hire me

Working From Home

Did almost 3 1/2 hours for the Video IP co. today. I hope to do at least 10 hrs this week (getting started mid week may make this tough).

I can tell that I'm going to be working kind of late due to my work out and social schedules but it's all for the cushion of next year. If I can't find something right in January, I'm going to need as much moola as possible. I'm gonna work it work it over the next 3 months.

Looking forward to going to the Ad agency tomorrow and job shadowing the current recruiter. I need to know the whole process and who everyone is. It'll be a lot of cramming over the next day and a half.

I'm really digging this contract schedule. I know this is what I want to do moving forward. I just hope I can sustain it.

hire me

Checking In

Want to get started on my at home contract but the guy is so busy that he couldn't call me yesterday so I missed a whole day....a whole day of getting paid! He said he'd call me this afternoon. I'm itching to get started especially since I'm home today and have the time to really focus.

I go into the Ad agency tomorrow all day and Friday for 1/2 a day. I really think I'm going to like it there.

Not much else to report except my back is aching. Ugh. Like wrenched. I know it's from that darned Zumba but I do love it so. It won't keep me from my Group Groove class this morning. It just won't.

Trying to help my former bro-in-law find a job. He's a corp communication manager. Excellent writer. If he finds a better job/job that he likes, it only benefits my sis and my niece. You know....doing this for "the team".

Got a new printer that I love. If anyone wants an HP Laser Jet from last year let me know. It does need to be fixed. For some reason it prints but without words (ink cartridges are new) so it needs to be looked at but if you want it, it's yours. It's an all in one color printer thingie.

hire me

Hello Night Time JOG

I definitely want to keep up with the JOG since my search is far from over but I'm finding the time to write it slim to none. I'll definitely have a little more time tomorrow to write.

Started my first day at the Ad agency. Just worked a few hours and got to know some peeps. Really fun. I'm definitely going to enjoy myself. It'll be tough filling their recruiter's shoes because they love her, but I think I'll do a decent job.

I also accepted the other PT contract gig. 10-15 hrs a week working from home helping out a video IP company. I'll be finding a lot of programmers and/or technical project managers for them.

AND I heard back from the spirits company after I sent him an email yesterday and cc'd his boss. He wrote me back in 25 mins. That was the key...get the boss involved. He told me things were changing week to week and he couldn't get it together to bring me on. Um...an email or call TELLING me this would have been nice. I truly think he's in way over his head. I told him if he needed my help next year to contact me. We shall see....

I'm so tired. I need some rest. Tomorrow and Weds I'm home and I hope to do some work for the video IP co. I really think that contracting is the way to go for me. I need to market myself this way and hopefully get more gigs next year. The Recruiting Contract Queen. Holla.

hire me

Biz-zay

Sorry I missed a posting yesterday but I was BUSY. I think it's the first one I've missed since I started writing the JOG. I seriously had so much going on yesterday that my heart was beating very, very fast and I thought it would catapult out of my chest and into my dog's face. Gross. Sorry.

So.....in addition to the Euro gig, I'm also waiting to hear on another contract gig that will give me an additional 10-15 hrs a week (that I can work from home!) of recruiting work. I should know more about this today or tomorrow. The CFO is working on the details but if the money's right then I'll do it.

I don't want to be inundated with work but I do want to set myself up over the next 3 months that if/when I need to go back on Unemployment early next year that at least I'll have a bit of a financial cushion.

No JOG post tomorrow as I'll be flyin to VT for a wedding. There's talk that one of the planes (we fly into Boston and then New Hampshire) is a Cesna. Um......what??!! Mother, if you're reading this try and not panic. Everything is going to be A-OK but if not, remember that William is at Earth Pups and needs to be treated the way he has become accustomed in my able hands.

If anyone is in Schaumburg this evening....as I know EVERYONE is....come and see Montgomery & Cooke at the Laugh Out Loud Theater - 8pm. I'll be doing a "bit".

hire me (little letters and no ! as I'm good for a few months)

The Eagle Has Landed....At Least Until The End Of The Year

I got offered and ACCEPTED a contract job with the Ad agency...woo hoo! Eurorscg will be my new home for the next 3 or so months. I couldn't be more excited. Not only is it pretty flexible (will be working about 30-32 hrs a week) but I got a great hourly and get to work with some of my former co-workers from Draft. So...it's back to the Ad world I go.

I'm still not out of the woods. I'll have to start networking for next year soon but at least I know that I have a few months of reprieve (reprieval? - no...I spell checked and it's not a word. Huh.).

I also had a decent interview with my former Midway employee's company. That would be about 20 hrs a week and I could work from home. If they offer me something I'll have to figure out if I can take it.

So....it's good news. I'm happy. I only have to work 2 1/2 days next week and then the week after I start my reg schedule. At least I can relax for a bit. Tomorrow my Group Groove class will be so much groovier thanks to the good news of today.

Sigh of relief.

Hire me! (For next year!)

Taking Unemployment By The Horns

Changed the title of my JOG to The JOG. "This Job Market Blows" may be a little too blunt. I want to appeal to the masses.

Day 1 of UI. Got up early. Walked the dog. Took a shower (I needed one). On my way to Yoga...then a visit with a friend...then to the pet store for a couple essentials. I'll go home....walk William....eat....and head out for a mani/pedi. Now, how is a girl on unemployment getting a mani/pedi? I've earned a free pedi and have been saving it for a rainy day. Hello thunderstorms. I'm heading to a wedding on Friday and need to look like an employed lady.

Got an email from one of my "Plan C" companies and he said he's in town tomorrow and Wednesday and would be in touch to schedule a meeting. I'm keeping every appendage on my body crossed that this could materialize into something. If not, Plan D may have to be put into effect and I don't even know what that plan is yet.

So...I'm OK. Enjoying the weather. Doesn't even feel like I should be working. That's kind of scary.

I'm hoping for a good week.

HIRE ME!

The Last Day

Today has been tough but nice. Our Controller bought us pizza for lunch and a lot of us gathered in the lunch room and ate and chatted. I definitely get misty eyed thinking about Midway and how much I've enjoyed my time.

My boss wrote me a really nice email. He's someone I'd work for again in a heartbeat. I've learned quite a lot from him and have enjoyed my time working with and for him. I will miss him.

I signed up for UI benefits today. Weird.

I heard from my former boss this morning. She sold her company a few months back and is making a whole career change. She asked me if I could put her in touch with a couple people in my network and I gladly obliged. She's a very positive person and it's nice to be around those people....especially when I sometimes think the world sucks....but only do I feel this SOMETIMES. I also helped a friend's sister yesterday by providing her with contacts in the sales and retail world. Pay it forward. It will come back around.

Had a lovely lady dinner last night. Friends who have been where you are and can give you positive reinforcement and such are key to getting through this. I am thankful for my wonderful friends.

I called the Ad agency this morning but have not heard back. I also reached out to one of the former Exec Producers at Midway who moved onto another gaming company. He called me right back and left a message (I returned his call but have not heard back as of yet) asking about money and making sure I'd be open to contracting. At least there's a glimmer of hope that I could land somewhere soon.

Until then....I will keep pounding the pavement. There is no one who works harder than me in terms of networking. I just have to keep keepin' on.

I have wonderful people in my life (you know who you all are) and am so thankful for this. I will get thru unemployment just like you will. We're no different. Support. Listen. Love. Understand. Hope. Advise. That's all we can do.

HIRE ME!

Tough Day

I honestly am at a loss for words. I'm having a very tough time today because I feel very lost....sad....frustrated. Today's the first day that when I think about what's ahead for me I actually have to stop myself from crying. It's all becoming a reality for me. It's not that it wasn't before but today, after I met my boss to do my exit interview, it really hit me.

I have loved working at Midway. I have liked my life so much over these past two years. I've not only enjoyed MOST of the people that I've worked with but truly enjoyed my job. The location (for me) was amazing. I've centered my whole life these past two years around Midway. And now.....I have nothing.

I try not to be a drama queen. Really. But I feel what I feel and with this loss of a job and not having a new job lined up I am truly devastated. My life is really going to change whether I like it or not.

I have tried to remain positive over these last few months and have done an OK job. It's now my hope that I can maintain some sort of hope but it will be tough.

To give you a summary of where I am: Got an email from the gaming co. I'd love to work for and they just can't make anything happen right now but said there's a good possibility that something will open up early next year. I told them to please not forget about me.

Called the guy from the spirits company AGAIN and of course there's no word from him. If you peruse the JOG archives you'll see that on more than one occasion he has told me that I will be getting an offer (was supposed to start this past Tuesday). Crazy....just crazy. He has been the source of most of my unhappiness. I just can't get over how I've been treated by him. So tough.

No word as of yet from the Ad agency but my feeling is that it may not work out. I'd love to work for them but money and hours needed may not work out.

So.....I may have nothing. Nothing to show for my almost 3 months of looking for work. I'm really shocked. I can find people jobs and I can get jobs. But I guess I can't get one now.

Tomorrow I become a statistic. Not one that I'm proud of. From here on out I really need to mind my pennies. I've been cutting back on a lot and I may need to cut back even more. Time will tell.

I feel very lost.....sad....frustrated.

HIRE ME!

Nothing

Nothing.

HIRE ME!

The Countdown Is In Full Swing

Thought maybe I'd have more of an update, but I don't.

The countdown continues. After today, I have 3 more days of employment. The good news is that I get my PTO payout on my last check so even though we're in Chapter 11, I'll get this money (post petition). This will give me another 1 1/2 weeks or so of cushion.

Had a good interview at the ad agency. Not sure if they'll make me an offer (may not work out logistically with hours needed and money that could be offered) but I really liked everyone I met with and felt that they liked me.

Called the yanking chain company this morning to let him know that I'm still interested and that hopefully we could talk and get caught up on the position that I was SUPPOSED to start today. Yes folks, today was my start date. What a joke. No word.

I will go online on Friday and file for unemployment. What I tried to avoid looks like a reality. I'm very upset. Unfortunately, my job search may be starting from square one. I will hopefully know some answers tomorrow or the day after.

I am thinking good thoughts for everyone who's in my position or may be in my position by year's end. What a rough road. Hopefully, we'll all come out of it better and even more successful (in happiness) than before.

HIRE ME!

Whatever

Well, no shock here. No word from the dude. Called him yesterday at 4:15pm (after he told me he'd be available to speak any time after 4pm) and followed up with an email this morning with my phone numbers and times I'm available to talk. Nothing.

Yes....this seems like a really long, drawn out joke. But where's the punch line?

Happy Labor Day Weekend, everyone!

Kind of ironic for me to be celebrating the "working man's" holiday.

1 more week and I will officially be unemployed.

HIRE ME!

You Don't Say?

Wonder of wonder, miracles of miracles.....

The dude from the company that may crush me called. Left a message on my home VM that he's been swamped and sorry he didn't call me yesterday (Um, hello!....you were supposed to call me back in 10 minutes 2 days ago) but he'd be around for 30 minutes (didn't get the message until after that time frame) and then after 4pm. I will try him in a couple hours.

He said he'd like to move forward and bring me on board. Huh. There's a part of me that's very excited and another part that thinks I may again not hear from him. I'll let you know in tomorrow's JOG if/when we connect. I have no idea what he'll offer me or anything like that. Also, the 9/8 start date is out the window as far as I'm concerned. I'm hoping that if I accept that I can start 9/14.

I also still have that interview at the AD agency on Tuesday that I'm going to.

Thought I'd post some convenient links for IL peeps out of work. This goes into who's eligible and how it's all calculated.

http://www.ides.state.il.us/individual/faq2.asp

http://www.ides.state.il.us/individual/summary.asp#benefits

If I get this fella on the horn today it will truly be a miracle but sometimes, miracles really do come true.

HIRE ME!

I Call BullSh*t

Today's JOG is me really letting it all out. I'm furious, sad, scared, tired and just really, really over it!

My chain has definitely been yanked. The company that never followed up with me for 2 months and then had me meet with the VP last week only to tell me I had the job and then I never hear back from them....is still MIA. No surprise. I got the guy live on the phone yesterday and he told me he'd call me back in 10 mins as he was jumping on a call. I waited and waited and waited.....after 45 mins I met my friend so we could walk our dogs. When I got back I thought for sure I'd hear from him AND....NOTHING. Done. I just can't waste anymore energy loathing your process. I do like the company and think it'd be a cool place to work but you're obviously "just not that into me" SO....I am moving on.

I got a call from an AD agency yesterday about covering a maternity leave. Only catch is I think it's just PT. BUT, maybe I could do that and string 1 or 2 other things together to make ends meet? My boss pointed out that it sounds good but I'll really have to make sure I'm getting paid by everyone. I can do that.

I'll also contact the gaming company and let them know that I'm definitely done next Friday and if/when they can bring me on board that I am willing, ready and able to do so.

I'm also going to put the word out to my former co-worker and see if maybe I could help his company out if it turns out the AD agency is a go. Maybe I could work for them a couple days a week and the Agency three days a week? We shall see.

Anyone know (I've read and heard different things) if you can still collect unemployment if you're on a 1099? I've HEARD that doing independent contract work makes you still eligible for unemployment because it's not like it's a "real job" and you're still looking for actual employment. Anyone....?

I know of a couple more people who have recently lost their jobs and a couple more still struggling to find one. Please know that you're not alone and that we're all in the same boat. It may not be totally comforting to hear but it's true.

To all you people yanking our chains and making us feel less than we are, please know that karma is a fickle, fickle lady and I hope that you don't experience what I've been going through these past few months. I would wish this on no one. You may think that you're in a position of power but as we all know, that power can shift in an instant. If anything, it's made me realize that for all my faults as a person the one thing I know I have above others is my true compassion and respect for people. I like recruiting because I truly enjoy finding people work. I get great joy out of "making a match" and filling a position. What I'm finding is that most recruiters really don't care about the people. They just want to fill the job. I can't begrudge you for your tactics but I can say this with extreme confidence, that I am better than you. I am better than you because I truly care how people feel. No one should feel demoralized. Yes, we all may not get a job but give us the common courtesy to let us know in a timely manner and why we didn't get it. That's all I/we ask.

HIRE ME!

The JOG Is Experiencing Technical Difficulties

Wrote a whole JOG today but then it didn't post due to technical difficulties. I just don't have it in me to write it again. Ugh!

Until tomorrow....

HIRE ME!

Bamboozled!

I feel a little bait and switch going on.

You're the chosen one for the job but you're never going to hear from us again. Wow....thank you. THANK YOU SO MUCH.

Thank you for taking what little hope that I had that I may have a job before this one ends. Not only is that hope taken away but now I'm NEVER going to believe I'm getting an offer until I see it in writing.

I have never played this game with my candidates.....never...and I've extended tons of offers.

I have this sinking suspicion that I will never hear from this company again. I know they're not cash poor but I do believe that they spoke too soon about wanting to bring me on without knowing what I made and that scared them off. This discussion should have been done when I first went in months ago. Waste of time.

I understand corporate America. I do. And I don't blame them for not extending me an offer. I do blame them for TELLING me that I was getting an offer and then never following up. In that respect you got me. You got me good.

Some may say I'm jumping the gun with my disdain but I don't think so. I get an email on Thursday morning (early) asking me to see how fast I can vacate my current job even though they know I only have a couple weeks left. I am a compromiser and tell them I can leave one week early. Get everything approved. Now it's Monday at 12:42 pm. Nothing.

HIRE ME!

The JOG Is Silent

Still waiting. I almost feel like they've tricked me a bit. I get an email yesterday telling me that I was the chosen one. They need me to start sooner than 9/14 (talked to my boss to work it all out) and then I get NOTHING. No follow up. Nada. It's really disheartening.

I just spoke with the other company I'm interested in. The video game company. She said if I can hold off the other company until Tuesday/Wednesday she should have an answer for me. Right now it's 50/50. I think I'm the one they want but they may not get it approved to bring on another contractor. The good news is she told me she's going on maternity leave in 6 or so months so if it didn't work out now, they'd want to bring me on next year. Great, but I need something now.

I got contacted today about a contract assignment at a CPG company. Would be cool to work for them but the hourly is really low. Not low for a lot of people but would be much lower than what I make now. I'm trying not to take something just to take it. I'm really trying to take something that hopefully will make me happy. Happiness is still "in", right? I don't think it's overrated at all.

I'm thinking maybe my salary is holding up the offer process. I think it would have been better for him to ask me how much I make when I first went in as opposed to now when I'm hearing crickets.

Every day is a roller coaster. The ebb and flow of this job search has been really tough...and eye opening. I know that WHEN I land somewhere, I'm going to treat candidates even better than I did in the past. People deserve to be treated well in a time of need. I respect those that are looking for a job. Maybe I'm more compassionate than others? Not sure. I just know that those that have gone through this process should be more understanding and more responsive. Shame on you if you're not.

HIRE ME!

The Train Is Pulling Into The Station

From an email sent to me at 10:38 this morning, I am getting an offer. I'm getting an offer! There are good and bad things that go with this information.

Good: Hello...I'm getting an offer from a company I like. I'm getting paid. It's a creative company. They really seem to need my assistance.
Bad: It's a commute. They want me to start earlier than my end date at Midway. I'd start Tuesday, 9/8. I don't know if the other company I'm interested in is going to be able to move this quickly to get me an offer. The Hiring Manager has never discussed pay with me...until now.

Decisions need to be made.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that all will go well no matter what.

I need a cocktail. (I will not actually imbibe at 12:44pm but I do like the sound of it)

Hire Me! (Getting close!)

Dames!

You know who I shouldn't work for/with? Stuck up, over confident, glass half empty, bitchy women.

I will leave it at that.

HIRE ME!

Oh Could It Be?

Could I be getting close to offer time? I am PRAYING this is the case.

So, the company that I interviewed with 2 months ago and never heard back from contacted me yesterday! They want me to come in and meet with the VP for a "final interview". I do this tomorrow morning. This is one of the companies that was at the top of my list to work for but after not hearing from them (with numerous follow up) I wrote them off. As my sister says, (like men) they always come back. His excuse was that he was "buried in work". I still think you should be courteous and always respond to someone even if you have no information. That to me is a sign of a good recruiter....but no judgement. Ha!

I'm hoping to get a couple offers. One from that company and one from the gaming/work from home company that I've had 3 phone interviews. Hoping, Hoping, Hoping! (Not Hopping, Hopping, Hopping for any of you confused rabbits out there).

This morning I just got into work. I did some freelance work for one of my former co-workers that I hope to continue doing even if/when I land somewhere. It's interviewing and giving feedback to recent college grads.

And, AND...my former co-worker emailed me thru Linkedin and told me he was going to get the ball moving at his company to try and bring me on for contract recruiting work. I'd rather have LOTS going on and many acceptance decisions as opposed to none.

So...that's the update. Finally, it looks like a cheery day. No offers YET but hopefully soon.

The tide may be a'turnin' my friends.....

Hire Me!

You Got Anything? I Got Nuthin'.

Was trying to hold out a bit in writing the JOG in hopes that I'd have something to report but alas, I got nuthin'.

Tomorrow I'm going downtown to do a freelance gig for a few hours with some of my former colleagues at CPRi/Aquent. I'm so glad to be working with them and touched that they asked me to be a part of their company.

No news in terms of majah (MAJOR for those of you that aren't hip to the lingo) jobs. And so I wait...and wait...and wait....

3 weeks left at Midway.

The phone intv went well on Friday and I'm keeping all fingers, toes and anything else I can cross (legs....eyes?) in that I get an offer or at least be told that it's getting close to an offer. But I don't want to jump the gun because so many variables can prevent this from happening. Just trying to concentrate on some other freelance work.

That's all I got and it ain't much. I found out on Saturday that I'd do really well with snakes down my shirt. You think I could get some dough doing this?

HIRE ME!

Overthinking Is For Suckers

Just had a great phone interview with one of the gaming studios. At least I think it went well. It's my third phone interview. I started talking to them about a month and a half ago. I don't think I'll need to meet with anyone in person as the role is a work from home for a central group and I've met one of the people in the group as she used to work for my former company so I think I'm good there. If I could just get a decent offer from this company then I'd be set and I can relax for a bit. It'd be for a contract but it'd be for at least 6 months so that's cool.

I emailed a couple other folks today as follow ups from conversations we had last week but so far nothing. Job searching in this economic climate has not been fun....at all. But I'll tell you what is fun....the search. I'm good at it. I find a new job every now and then and I know I could work for them and produce even though they don't call me in for an interview, I know I could do it. It's fun for me to discover those roles and get a little bit excited and hopeful.

The other thing I've done today and yesterday is forward my current co-workers and friends' resumes to my friend for consideration at her company. I almost feel like I'm recruiting for her firm even though I don't have anything official in place. It's keeping me busy and always gives me a good feeling. I like to help...and feel needed.

I'm looking forward to not thinking about "the search" this weekend. If I think about it too much I get really disappointed. Trying not to go there.

TGIF!

Hire Me!

No News Is Good News

Slow day with the JOG. Really nothing going on...no new news since yesterday.

I ate a really gross muffin today. That's about it. Nothing to do with my job search but I paid $1.69 for it and it sucked. I had to throw most of it away because it was raw in the middle. I implore you: Don't buy your lemon poppy seed muffins from Treasure Island.

I can't believe it's already 3:20pm. Where does the time go?

Until tomorrow....

Hire Me!

The Joys Of Joy

Enjoying my time at home. I feel like I'm so much healthier in body, mind and spirit while being able to be leisure. Long dog walks (to beaches and parks), going to the gym and taking a peppy Groove class, meeting a friend to get something signed, doing laundry....this is the life. Why do I need a job? Oh yes.....for $$. Damn you money. Can't we bring back the bartering system? I'll trade you this fabulous George Foreman grill/griddle for a month's rent. Sounds fair.

I have a phone interview today. I sent an email to a guy from a forwarded email from a friend and he wrote me right back and said he wanted to talk to me. Not too shabby.

Then I have a 3rd phone interview with a company I'd really like to work for on Friday. This is one of the work from home ones. My fingers are really crossed for this opportunity.

I'll be home tomorrow as well. Will probably be as busy if not busier than I am today. You know....with life. My life. This is the life.

Hire Me!

This JOGGER Is Pluggin' Away

This morning I made some dough. Surveys. Gotta love em. I wish more would come my way. It was for restless leg syndrome. I had no clue what it was or if I had it but I knew that my feet fall asleep a lot and I feel a prickly sensation quite a few times a day if I don't move around a lot. It was enough to qualify me for the survey. I like xtra $$. I don't like RLS.

I talked to a co-worker yesterday and got some good advice. He's going to try and get me considered for a different discipline. Not sure if it'll work but I appreciate the assistance. Who says a Recruiter always needs to recruit? We're good for other things like training, sales, biz development, OD, facilities management, etc. I just haven't been given the chance to really focus on these areas....but I think I could do them if given the chance.

Again...it's all about the networking! (It's also all about the Benjamins. Cha Ching)

I also heard from a former co-worker this morning who put me in touch with another former co-worker. Not sure if anything will come from this but at least it's something. Something is always better than Nothing....except when it comes to disease. In that case I'd rather have Nothing.

Found out my boss talked to his counterpart at the company I'd like to work for. Maybe that'll get me an in? The Recruiting Manager isn't back until Friday so we'll see what happens.

My Boss thinks I should move out of the country (A couple people that I've talked to have basically offered to relocate me if I'd consider international opportunities). He thinks I should let these companies assist me in my home selling and move out for a year. Me thinks my boss may be right but honestly, I'd miss Chicago and everything I have here....especially, if I moved to say...Singapore!

Right now, if I had to pare it down, there are 2-3 opportunities that if I were given offers for I would take. The problem is all of them are either in the very beginning or concept stages so I'm thinking I won't be gainfully employed (direct-hire OR contract) until middle to end of October. Oy!

I will just keep plugging away because that's all I can do.

HIRE ME!

Pick Me! Pick Me!

I saw a job. A job with a company that I've wanted to work for, for awhile now. My heart started pumping really fast. I don't know if the job is a "perfect fit" but it's close...close enough. I sent the guy who's in charge of recruiting my resume. Then I asked my boss to call his boss to put in a good word. If I don't get a call, I'll know something's up and I'll be really bummed.....REALLY bummed. Ugh.

I applied to another job I saw posted and my email was returned to me. This is the morning I'm having.

I have to go contest a ticket tomorrow morning. A ticket that I never knew I got...until 2 months after the fact. I will not pay that $100 until you can prove to me that I did this. Hopefully I won't be there all day.

I'm going to be home Weds and Thursday like last week. Really nothing going on in the office so why shouldn't I be home?

I've started all my "sentence paragraphs" with "I". How narcissistic of me.

I have this feeling that next week a lot of employment questions will be answered. People will be getting back from vacations and such and HOPEFULLY my job search will really start picking up. A sassy gal can dream, can't she?

Oh, and I changed my JOG theme to pinkish hues. If I could slap a big Hello Kitty on there it'd be my most favoritist JOG ever.

HIRE ME!

JOGGING In Reverse

I kind of feel like my job search is going in reverse. Last week there was a lot of promise and this week not so much. Huh. I'm trying to be zen about it and just take it as it comes. I found a new website for job seekers: Joined.com, that seems pretty good. I just keep hoping that I'll get a call from a company I'd like to work for and that the process will pick up and I'll be hired. It'd be so nice to know what I'll be doing BEFORE 9/11 but it just doesn't look like this will be the case. Breathe. Relax. Everything will be OK.

I'm back in the office today and it feels fine. I like being home much more, but being here isn't terrible. I'm going to try and stay home a couple days next week as well. I do feel like I get more done and that I am more relaxed at home.

Today I'm not going to do much in terms of the job search. I feel like I've exhausted all avenues this week and that next week it'll be back to stomping. STOMP. Now there's something that would be fun to do. If only I was as good playing a plastic can with drumsticks as I am with air drums. Maybe I could make a buck doing that????

HIRE ME!

The JOG Is Taking A Bit Of a Respite Today

No time for the JOG today. Been running around like crazy. I like this life. I must not get too used to it. No work = much more time for Leisure Dori.

Hire Me!

Home Alone

I've had a good morning thus far. Could I get used to this life of unemployment???? Ugh. I will not let myself. I'm still pounding the pavement trying to find a job but I'm so disenchanted by what's out there. Can't we just wrap this all up and I'll be swept away by my dream scenario: working from home for a gaming company? Why oh why do I have to go through all this other stuff to get to the goods?

This JOG is making me thirsty....my ode to Seinfeld as I take a sip of my water.

I'm going to do some following up today and tomorrow. I don't want to be too persistent, but I do want companies that I'm interested in to remember that I exist. I only have email addresses so I will email away.

My dog is sleeping after a long hard morning at the dog beach. He has the life. I only support it. I wish he could get a job and help out our little household, but with his sideways walk and face that looks like a tired Asian lion in photographs, I don't think he's going to be bringing in the Benjamins, so I will continue my search.

HIRE ME!

My Life Has Left a Bad Taste In My Mouth

I just ate a bad peach. This is quite a topper to a pretty craptastic day.

OK, so it has now been confirmed that I do not want to work in a "Corporate America" setting. The interview was fine and I smiled and contributed and kept nodding my head in agreement but the whole time I was hating it......hating every minute of it. Maybe it was the company and the role. Not sure. But all I know is that I did not want that job. But I do want a job...just not that one.

I talked to my friend today who had an interview "up the street" from where I work and he had a much better attitude than I. He told me you just can't worry. That doesn't help anything. It's good advice since I'm the queen of worry. I have to just take it all for what it is and eventually it'll all work out. I'm so hoping that day will come...soon.

So, in the meantime I will continue to search for jobs, network, apply, etc until the right one comes along. I now know what I don't want to do. I just hope I find something I do want to do.

Hire Me!

The Man = BLECH!

Tomorrow I have my first "corporate interview". And let me tell you....I'm dreading it! I'm so thankful to even get an in person interview but the closer it comes and the more I think about it the more I don't want it. The thought of a long commute and "working for the Man" again drives me loopy. I REALLY want to work from home OR go into work for a creative company. Insurance, Big 4 Public Accounting, Professional Services, etc is making me nauseous.

I know I want a job. I know I need a job. But because I only have a month (yes folks....ONE month from today/tomorrow) left living on Easy Street at Midway, the reality of my situation is really setting in.

I was told that I'd hear from the company that I really want to work for regarding next steps last Thursday AND....nothing. No surprise.

Today I'm going to call this guy from another "fun company" that I'd like to work for and see if he's interested in talking to me.

Life is hard y'all. (A little Britney Spears never hurt anyone)

HIRE ME!

Sell It If You Got It

I just had a phone interview and it seemed to go well. I'll be going in next week for a face to face interview.

I do feel like I'm doing a total sell job when talking to these folks. I find myself being overly peppy on the phone to try and convey interest. Is it too much? Maybe.

The job I'm really hoping to get is a work from home in the gaming industry. I do have a few leads but everything is so slow moving so I may have to take a corporate job with a commute. It's not the worst thing in the world but if I can avoid it, I'd love it.

Going to try and work from home a couple days next week. And again, when I write "work" I mean...just be home. Who am I kidding?

I helped a current co-worker with his resume today and sent a few contacts out to a lot of the team members affected by the Midway sitch. I feel like I continue to do my part to help others.

I just wish these snail jobs would turn into rabbit stew. Did that make any sense? Probably not.

I need a new job.

Hire Me!

Something Smells

Today I'm home. I have to meet some friends at 4:45pm and instead of going into work and just hanging out, I decided it's so much better to be home and hanging out. I'm going to "work from home" a couple days next week as well. I mean, if I really had a job that wasn't letting me go in a month then I would WORK, but come on. It's the count down to the end.

I just took my dog to the beach and when we got home I noticed that he STUNK....like poo! Well, after some investigation, I noticed that his whole right face cheek (under the flap of his long ear) was covered in muck. I quickly rushed him upstairs (sometimes I like to be leisure with him and we sit in my courtyard on one of the benches like an old married couple) and washed that crap right out of his hair. He now smells delish.

Next up is laundry and then relaxation before I have to get ready to leave. Tomorrow I have a phone interview and a lunch with a friend who has been oh so good to me over the years and may have some freelance work or ideas of FT work to throw my way.

Oh happy day....now that the poop is gone.

Hire Me!

Maybe I Could Be Paula Abdul?

I just spent forever creating a profile for a job I saw posted only to find that the job is no longer available. Um, what?! This couldn't have been posted BEFORE I spent 20 minutes typing? Frustrating!!

And so it goes....

My phone interview for today was rescheduled for Friday. I had 2 decent phone interviews yesterday but I can tell that they're both going to be slow movers. "Snail jobs". New catch phrase for the JOG.

I was feeling good on Monday because it seemed like I had quite a few things going on. Now, panic is setting in just a bit and I'm worried that all 3 of these things may fall by the wayside and/or I won't want any of them when it comes down to it.

I just want to work here. I like my job. I never wanted to leave this job because it's good....fun...I made a difference in their overall hiring/productivity. I'm going to be like the people who chain themselves to trees when I'm forced to leave. "Hell No, I Won't Go!"

I'm spending the morning trying to find new jobs to apply. I have thus far found one and I've been at it for over an hour. Odds are not in my favor.

You know what I have to look forward to today? The dentist. That really puts it all in perspective when that's the highlight, right?

Oh, I did help a few people out yesterday and this morning in terms of "paying it forward". Recommendations for jobs applied, suggested positions to apply to...you know the drill. It felt good.

Maybe now that Paula Abdul is off Idol I can have her job? And I'd be good at it too. Gosh darn, I wish I was famous!

HIRE ME! (when in all caps you know it's a desperate day)

Smiles Everyone, Smiles..

I've got a couple phone interviews today and I'm excited about both. I'm just excited to get to talk to hiring authorities about potential jobs. This is all in the beginning stages so I'm not sure if they'll develop into anything but at least it's something going on.

Mystic Pizza was on last night. It's one of my favorite movies. Just an easy breezy flick. I wish I could cook. I love the Food Network and watch it a lot. I always think that if I was a good baker then maybe I could make dog treats. I have a lot of dreams running through my mind but rarely do I execute. I think that's the Goldman way. We all talk a good game but we very rarely DO. Oh, to come from a long line of underachievers....

Had a nice convo with my West Coast friend. He's in a similar situation (has been a recruiter/sourcer for years and just moved to Cali to look for work out there because there was none here) where he has no job but is actively looking for employment. He's thinking the retail route may be a good transition step and I'm thinking good thoughts for him to get a job...soon!

I hope to have some more info tomorrow on today's happenings. I'm going to put my best interviewee hat on and hope to knock the socks off of 'em. You know, they say you should do phone interviews in front of a mirror. You should smile as you talk so as to convey a pleasant tone. I think that's a little weirdo but maybe I'll bring out the ol compact and give it a whirl. I want my voice to smile over the phone....smile. Yikes!

Hire Me!

The Pickup Artist

OK...I don't want to get too excited but things look like they're really starting to pick up. I have a 2nd phone interview tomorrow and I just got a call from a corporate company in the Burbs about their staffing position (my former co-worker is there consulting for them and she put in the good word for me...I'm telling you, it's all about the networking in this day and age). Could this week be the week that I actually have some things going on? How wonderful would that be? It feels like forever (in "real time" about 5-6 weeks) since I really started looking for a job and it looks like the fruits of my labor may just be working. Thank you fruits (Granny Smith apples, oranges, peaches...they're my favorites).

I've also been contemplating if I should register with the Unemployment office as kind of a preemptive strike? I can do it while I'm under the WARN Act but I feel like I kind of want to wait to stave off any defeated karma in hopes that I'll have a job before I leave here on the dreaded 9/11.

Today's JOG tip: Make sure that your outgoing voice mail messages are professional. I know that when I call someone and I get Snoop Dogg's "Drop It Like It's Hot" playing in the background, it puts questions in my mind like, "Who is this joker?" Also, the "Have a blessed day." is nice but really? For some reason it turns me off. Just my professional opinion. Leave your name and that you're not there but that you will get back to the person as soon as possible. Short and sweet. No need for Kate Perry and "I Kissed a Girl" to also make an appearance on the message.

Hire Me!

And So It Goes...

I've applied to a lot of positions this week. I've emailed a lot of folks and talked to a few on the phone. Nothing is happening....yet....but it has to pick up soon.

I'm tired. That pretty much sums up my feelings in a nutshell....a tired, little nutshell.

I'm glad it's the weekend. I wish I could loosen up a bit and enjoy this flexible time but I just can't. I'm Dori Goldman. Those that know me know that I'm pretty tightly wound.

My JOG is taking a sabbatical until Monday. My JOG is tired as well.

Here's to futures brighter and prosperity to all.

Hire Me!

Is The Tide A'Turnin?

Yesterday and today I noticed a couple more recruiting positions posted (plus one for a gaming company but it's in NYC). Also, a friend of mine sent me an opportunity for a contract recruiter. I'm applying to all of these. I haven't had an interview in 3 weeks or so, so I will continue to apply to everything I see. Maybe there's a bit of an upswing out there?

Today's JOG tip: Be friendly to everyone. In email, over the phone or in person...I'm trying to be nice and helpful to everyone. I've always been fairly nice to most people but sometimes I can get heated if I think something is unfair or I've told a particular staffing firm to stop calling me a million times. I'm just trying to give off positive energy and hopefully it will come back around.

My lunch date was rescheduled until next week. That's OK. I feel like during this whole situation my life is continuously being put on hold.

Arrrggghhhh! (that was a positive ARGH....I think...)

Hire Me!

Rough Morning? Eh.

I have basically been up since 3:10am. I did catch a disco nap from 6:40am until 8am. What I thought was my carbon monoxide detector was beeping due to low battery. It turns out it was my smoke detector. I kept trying to take it off (it's attached to my ceiling) to change the battery but couldn't do it. 311 said I was nuts for even calling (I knew it wasn't carbon monoxide and it was my battery). Firemen aren't going to help you change a battery.

I called this Chimp that I know 22 times. He finally picked up the phone at 5am (My dog and I moved our party to the car where William had a fitful 10 minutes of solid sleep while I just sat there and thought). He changed my batteries in both detectors and I couldn't be more grateful.

I got to work around 9:30am and actually don't feel half bad. I'm in a decent mood. My friend had her baby (small thing with no name as of yet) and I applied to 2 new positions. I don't think that either of them will contact me but at least there were 2 new ones to apply to. (So much for the Secret way of thinking).

I'm having lunch with my friend tomorrow. She may have some freelance work for me. I also may be able to work for a game agency doing some sourcing. Anything I can get my hands on.

Oh...and this morning I think I opened a rotten bag of dog treats. They're freeze dried raw patties. They smelled like garbage. The expiration date hadn't passed so I don't know what's up but my dog, who normally eats anything and everything, turned his nose to them. Then I got a whiff and it wasn't pretty.

In my dog shop I wouldn't sell rancid treats.....only lovely, fresh, healthy ones....

Hire Me!

Is August The New Birkin Bag?

Everyone keeps mentioning that the job market is going to pick up in the Fall....late August to be exact. Is this true or just wishful thinking? I hope it's true. I definitely know the market will pick up but it may not be until 1st quarter of 2010. This could put a severe crimp in my everyday style. If it is August then people will be lining up to "get some of that" and there may be a waiting list. As I'm trying to network all over town, I'm hoping to be first in line when the clouds part and gold coins start falling from the sky. I'm all about it.

I heard from a couple more contacts yesterday. One offered me some contract work (it'll most likely be "you fill a position, you get some dough") if I can't find anything else and one wants to share leads with me. I'm open to both and do believe the more I'm talking to everyone, the more I'll land something sooner rather than later.

Should I take my resume off the job boards? I think I'll do this in a day or so. Nothing has come of it (only scam jobs and insurance agent offerings) and it may be nice to re post it in a few weeks.

I'm enjoying writing this JOG. I believe I may have 3 or so loyal readers and for that I am thankful. I may start marketing it to the masses but I feel I have to get a few more written to make it really appealing. Did those last few sentences make it worth your while? Yep, I'm a regular Hemingway and Doctor Phil all wrapped up in one.

Today on the agenda is more copying of employee files and maybe some forecasting for the new company (WB Games Chicago - the new name of the studio).

Oh the life I lead....

HIRE ME!

Throwing Out The Baby With The Bathwater

I don't really have a strategy for this week. I'm continuing to tell everyone and anyone that I'm looking for a job and that seems to be creating quite the buzz but still no solid leads. I know this will take time.

Again I'm hearing from the masses to enjoy my impending time off. Do things that cost no money and enjoy the time. I guess I'll see what happens when I get to that point but knowing myself, I don't know how relaxed I'll be. If I had a severance then maybe I'd be loosy goosy but no severance = pure panic at the disco.

Already this morn I've emailed a couple people from Friday who I met who said they wanted my resume in case their company was hiring. All I can do is keep on sending and hoping.

I'm continuing to run errands that need to get done while I still have money....like taking my car in today to get the once over. Friday I'm having my cleaning lady, Renata (if you ever need a cleaning woman this gal is awesome!!!) do up my place nice and pretty. Not sure when I can have her back due to my economic sitch.

I said last week that this week would be a good one. I'm going to continue in that thought process. It never hurts to think a little SECRET every now and then.

Hire Me!

No Shame In My Game

Everyone I talk to and every post on a social networking site is about my hunt for a job. I have no shame. I want everyone to know that I'm looking so hopefully someone will offer me something or give me leads. I have never expected to get something for free. I work for everything I get.

So slowly but surely this method is working. I got an email yesterday from a former coworker about a contract job at his company and today my friend contacted me about freelance help for her company. If I can piece enough things together then maybe I can make a go of it. I'm not sure if either of these opportunities will pan out but at least it's something...SOMETHING to think about instead of NOTHING.

Maybe I should draw up biz cards for myself: Dori Goldman/(Contact information)/No Shame In My Game. That's an attractor, huh?

I'm going to leave work early today....really early. I've got a lot of personal errands to run. That's the one good thing about losing your job: You get "Me" stuff done a lot easier.

Oh Happy Weekend.

Hire Me!

Who's Bad?!

My boss said something interesting to me yesterday: "Maybe you're getting so down on yourself because you're sending your resume to anyone/everyone and not hearing anything back instead of being more strategic. Since it "only takes one" job then try being more selective in your search. This is going to take time no matter what." Huh.....I guess it's a good way of approaching it. I've been going on different company websites and not finding any recruiting opportunities but if a company really interests me I'm still posting my resume to their database. I know from experience that I may never be "sourced" but at least it's in there. I can always go back and post again if need be. I think this is OK but maybe all the Monster/Careerbuilder stuff has to end. They are both crappy!

I also need to start writing down who I send my resume to. This will help me in the future if another opening pops up at the same company. I won't have to go thru all the sign up stuff. And if an Agency calls me to ask if I've already submitted my resume I'll know if I have/haven't.

I just got to work. I had to run to Evanston hospital to get an exam. Something all ladies need to do at 40 (or just before you turn 40 as in my case). It wasn't nearly as painful as I had expected. Wasn't a walk in the park, but it wasn't terrible. All these "appointments" I'm trying to get in while I still have insurance and/or Cobra. Because Midway may cease to exist in a few months, I may not even get Cobra so I want to do all of this now.

Off I go to make more copies. Who's bad? Me.

HIRE ME!

Dori

Hello I'm almost 40 and I love my mommy and daddy

So, last night I get home and I see that my dad has sent me a check for a pretty nice amount. My parents do this a lot when they know I'm "in need". I started getting really misty eyed. Here I am....almost (a few months!) FORTY and my parents are sending me money to help me out in these hard economic times. It's so appreciated but I also feel like I'm worthless. Because I'm having such a hard time finding something new I feel like even my P's don't have the confidence in me that I'll land something. Now, I know that their concern only comes out of love but I'm just having such a hard time with this whole thing. I've always been able to support myself and make a decent living. This is the first time since I was about to leave college that I'm really worried about money. But as I've talked to numerous friends about this who are around my age, they too say that they've received help from their parents and there's nothing to be ashamed of. Umm....

I was listening to Drex this morning (they kind of drive me nuts but it's nonsense radio and really that's all I can handle while driving to work) and he was talking about "funemployment". Instead of looking at it like UNemployment, it should be looked on as FUN where you don't have to do the daily grind and the feeling of Groundhog's day becomes nonexistent. Well, this is all fine and dandy but doesn't anyone have to pay a mortgage or have really high bills??? I'd love some time off to enjoy the summer but honestly, I need to be making the coin.

Today I got an email from a chap in London who's looking for "September employment". Not sure what that's all about but I assume that he's in school and wants to do something for a month in the video game industry. Instead of just deleting the email, I responded to let him know our situation and to wish him luck. I truly don't want to blow anyone off these days especially since I know how crappy that feeling is since no one is returning/responding to any of my emails/inquiries.

Here's to all you FUNemployment people. Enjoy the relaxation while you can. I wish you all the best!

HIRE ME!

Makin Copies

So, today's JOG is going to be really short. I'll be spending my entire day at the copy machine. Good times? Oh, yeah. I need to make copies of all former Midway employee's files. Please don't envy me.

I contacted one company yesterday in regards to a job. It was a referral. We'll see if he gets in touch with me.

I think the IL unemployment rate is 10-12%. Brutal. How do you find a job when there are none to be had? I guess I'm trying to look at it this way: I just need one. Just one job. So if I look at it that way, then I believe that my odds are better. Or am I just on crack?

In any case...Happy Tuesday. May the force be with us all.

Hire me!

New Week: New Tude

The weekend was fine. Yesterday was very unproductive and I'm kind of glad to be in the office today. I have a feeling....and I have no clue if my feelings are ever right or wrong, but I have a feeling that this week will be a good one and next week will be an even better one. Beyond that, I don't have a clue.

I've been scheduling appointments while I still have a job to take care of my biz. Lady Doc, Car Maintenance, Dentist....all the stuff that has to be done and is easier to be paid for with $$ coming in.

Because it's the beginning of the week there is not much to report but hopefully this will change as the week goes on.

I left a message for the dude that interviewed me almost 2 weeks ago and NO RESPONSE but I guess that's how it's going to be. He can suck it (until I find a fabulous new job this will be my feeling towards all prospective employers that don't hire me). 'Nuff said.

I still find that a lot of people are sending me their resumes and looking for work. As I said in my last post, I will be kind to them and try to help if I can. I'm hoping this goodness will come back to reward me.

I hope the universe has a good Monday. We all deserve it!

HIRE ME!

I'm The Female George Costanza

First off, I want to say that I will be referring to this from here on out as my JOG (job + blog = JOG).

Now, with all the administrative issues aside I can get down to the task at hand: My job search and what I'm doing.

I do feel a little like George from Seinfeld. My friend asked me yesterday if there's anything else I wanted to do besides recruiting and I was thinking, "Sure...I like dogs. I like watching TV. Maybe I could do something with that. I like celebrity gossip. Anything there?" But I answered, "Well, maybe sales?" Ugh. I don't know if I have any other skills. I'm lucky I've gotten this far with the minimal skills I have. Now I have to try and gain more/newer skills? Man, this thing called "Life" is tough.

I have decided that I can't use this forum to only complain and feel sorry for myself. I must also try and give tips. You know, so that when Suzy Orman or Oprah catches wind of my Jog and wants me on their show it impresses them that I'm also giving out advice.

So, here's today's' tip: Pay it forward. Just because I have no prospects doesn't mean I shouldn't forward a job onto a friend. Since I'm pretty much using my whole day to search job boards, company websites and group networking sites I'm coming across a lot of job opportunities....for others. I've been forwarding those onto my current co-workers and friends that I know are looking for work. I know that misery loves company (this girl I know....we'll call her "Shmori"....does relish in the fact that she's not alone in her plight) but I do believe that the Karma Gods will pay it back at some point. So don't not forward a Staff Accountant job post on just because you're a Paralegal.

Yesterday I was so touched to see a couple of guys I've known (1 friend from HS and 1 guy I dated) send me job leads. So nice! Really, people have been so kind to me. I really appreciate it and seriously....KEEP EM COMIN'!

I think I'm going to call my "He's just not that into you" interviewer from almost 2 weeks ago. I'd rather that he tells me that he isn't interested in me than not respond to any of my emails. OK...I just called and left a message. My heart was beating so fast like I was calling a dude that I liked. He wasn't there so I left a message. Hopefully it doesn't come across like the John Favreau VM message in Swingers. Oy!

Until next week.....

Oh, and I'm going to sign off using a catch phrase. That phrase is going to be: Hire Me!

Hire Me!

Dori

First Blog Post: Job Searches Are Like Dating

Ok, so....I never thought I'd write a blog. N-E-V-E-R (for all you spellers out there). But because I am in the throes of a job search and not having a lot of success I felt compelled to share my thoughts and almost use this venue for a bit of self release therapy.

I love(d) my job. I'm here until (drum roll please) September 11th (yes, my friends) as we qualified for the WARN Act due to the demise of Midway Games. This may seem like a lot of time to find a job but it's not. Not at all (especially since I really started looking about 4 weeks ago). The days tick by quite quickly and when you think you have a whole bunch of opportunities lined up, think again. I liken my job search to dating. "Will he call/email?" "Why haven't I heard from him?" "Was it something I did/said?" I refresh my email a zillion times a day and call my land line (which no one ever uses except the random telemarketer and that Steve Fanelli psycho lady) a few times as well just to see if some one's trying to get in touch with me. I have my cell phone with me at all times and often stare at it or check it just to make sure it's working. It's always working!

I went on an interview over a week ago and like when you first process a date I thought all was FABULOUS. But after numerous follow up attempts (3 to be exact) and no response from the Hiring Manager I'm now going over the interview wondering where I went wrong. How did I misread this meeting? Did the Hiring Manager not think I was as attractive as I thought he was? (Um...he wasn't, but he looked like Rob Lowe to me as I was sitting in his office talking to him)

I get pretty down on myself because I'm always the person that people say, "Dori? Oh, you know everyone. You'll be fine." Flattering, yes but in this crazy job market I feel like I know no one and even if I did there are so very few jobs in my field and I'm very nervous....nervous that I will be one of those unemployed people who will lose their home to foreclosure and who you read about was on top and then hit rock bottom. I don't want to be one of those dames.

So...that's how I'm feeling today. I'm trying to stay positive but positive is tough when no one is knocking on your door. Maybe tomorrow I'll be peppier. Maybe.

In any case, if you know of any fabulous recruiting roles in Illinois (or a virtual opportunity) please let me know. I'm an awesome recruiter. I really am. At least that's what I keep telling myself to keep my spirits lifted.