The job I lost
In July of 2008 my newspaper began laying off employees and offered buyouts according to your service with their company. I was given and eligible for 1 years salary and benefits because I had worked with them for 35 years.
I was just short of my 56th birthday and was also eligible to take my pension at 56 so I waited until I turned 57 and my buyout cash ran out.
What it's like being unemployed
I immediately applied for unemployment insurance as recommended by the HR department of my company.
Looking for suitable and similar employment, (I was a manager of staff and Photo Editor) was trying and impossible.
I decided to return to school and finish my degree while applying for work.
I have applied for work religiously for the past 2 years and had many interviews. I was usually told I was over qualified for whatever I tried to apply for.
My husband is retired and the extra unemployment money was helpful.
The amount was reduced when I took my pension but still helpful.
I recently found a job with a national non-profit and was hired. The rub was that the non-profit's policy is to use a temp agency as a temp-to-hire position for 90-180 days and the pay was $10 per hour. The second issue was the commute. When I was interviewed I was under the impression that the salary was a certain amount so I felt the 40 mile drive one way would be a minor inconvenience. It was not, as a result of the location it took me about an hour and a half each way to make the 40 mile trip (no easy interstate). The cost of gas was at $2.97 average and during the initial period I was only getting 35 hours a week. I told the director after 2 weeks that I would not continue with them after the first of the year.
I felt bad about quitting and was actually able to find them a great replacement in someone I used to work with and who lived only 15 minutes from their office. Someone who really needed the employment and benefits.
Unfortunately, I am now unable to file for extended unemployment because of the temp agency.
Advice
- Beware of temp agency work for less than you were paid. It can affect your long term benefits.
