1. Careers

Nine Months Six Interviews

Share Your Story: Share Your Unemployment Story

From I. Ford

The job I lost

I have been an Executive Administrative Assistant for 13 years, and have been an Administrative Assistant prior to that for several years. I have never had a problem getting a job in San Diego in all these years. The most time between jobs has been two months, but it usually was two weeks.

I've been unemployed for nine months with only six interviews from all the job search engines on the Internet. I am very discouraged that I'll find anything, but will continue to try diligently. The unemployment extensions are necessary to keep people in their homes and to buy food. I have paid into UE for over 20 years.

What it's like being unemployed

At first, I was embarrassed to bring my checks to the banks. I have never collected unemployment or had any other type of assistance. I hate being dependent on that check, although I am extremely grateful to get it. I want to work again very much, I am very independent and miss taking care of myself. I will continue to look, and not let up and become lazy about looking for work.

Advice

  • I have learned to manage my money in a very efficient manner. I always thought I was good at savings and not spending on things I really did not need. I now know how much more I should save, and also have learned how important work is to me, not only for the money, but for the sense of accomplishment and social enviornment.

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