Job Hunting at 58

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Added: Fri. Nov 12, 2010 6:34pm
Posted in: Career

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Being self-employed, we are used to 'feast or famine'. Well, thanks to the current economic downturn, we are in 'famine mode', and I am looking for a job. It's been a
month now, and no luck, but I've learned a lot . . .

In Boise, there are three applicants for every job posted. Like everyone else, employers are looking for more bang for their buck, offering less per hour, and expanding the job descriptions. You see 'Must Have' more often than 'Preferred' when discussing qualifications.

I can live with all that, but many employers are expressing an attitude that is not only unprofessional, but rude and condescending! 'Don't waste your time or ours'; 'Slackers need not apply' are just a couple of examples; the same employer that didn't want 'slackers' also asked for 'a two-year commitment' from the potential employee. Can the new hire expect a two-year commitment from him? Job hunting is hard enough, give me a break!

So all that being said, I'm on a quest, re-evaluating my wants, needs, and expectations along the way, and hoping for the best.

Time to be creative . . .

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Angela Mahler
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Posted 7:48pm November 21st, 2010

Oh! I didn't even look at the date. Honestly I just saw your pic, read about your previous situation and was compelled to comment. I'm so glad it's all working out for you.
And yes, I did make that necklace and it's my fav... today! I have a site under my name if you want to see more.
Thanks for your quick response.
Normi
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Posted 7:10pm November 21st, 2010

Things are looking up a bit since I started this blog. Our situation is still tenuous, thanks to a little good karma, my husband got word that a job he bid last March is at last moving forward, so we will have some cash flow for the next while. Also, I was just hired to create and sell fruit baskets at our local grocery store through the holidays. Neither will get us out of the hole, but what a boost!

Since I wrote the first post, I have shifted my job search away from the office setting. Ya, I can type pretty fast, file, copy, fax, and I am a champ on the phone, but when it comes to advanced computer skills, I am a novice. Employers expect more than what I have to offer, and I realized that I am okay with that. Truth be told, I am kind of relieved.

I am an artistic person, and a creative thinker, so I think that explains why I am so excited about making fruit baskets, even if it is for only a few weeks. The three interviews I have had for office work did not conger up nearly the enthusiasm. I think that says a lot. So, after the first of the year, I will change course, and see where the creative road takes me . . .

Thanks for your well-wishes, Angela. Did you make that jewelry; it is lovely.
Angela Mahler
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Posted 5:20pm November 21st, 2010

Egads! When I think I am unhappy with my current occupation, I think about those who are having a difficult time out there and thank God I'm ok.

I'm sorry this is where you are at right now, I don't envy you but wish you the very best in your search.

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