The job I lost
I didn't lose a job, I left a job. I worked for state government for over 20 years and worked my way up to management level. I had a good income, learned tremendous skills and left with excellent references.
What it's like being unemployed
I was tired and thought it time to do something else (I was 53 then). So husband and I left the west coast (2 kids are adults) and moved to PA. This was to be close to my family in Ohio and to lead a slower life. We both thought it would be easy to find other jobs because we both have such great resumes. WRONG. Almost two years later and hundreds of applications and interviews, I still cannot find a decent job. I do work part-time but it is not enough to live how I lived in the past. So, I am unemployed, underemployed and overqualified. I get rejected over and over for jobs that seem to match my skills perfectly. At first, I kept upbeat, but now I am angry, stressed and worried. Is this my reality as I get older? I do not have enough money for retirement, yet I feel that employers may think I am too old. It is very frustrating knowing that you have so much to give and that you worked so hard to get there. It can make you feel worthless and undervalued.
Advice
- What I have learned is that you should think twice about leaving a job until you have another - especially in this horrible economy. I guess I can say that you should not give up though many times I just want to scream and say "I am tired of looking for a job and I give up!" i also think that you should never think that there is something wrong with you if you have a good work history. Ask what is wrong with employers that don't see your qualities and what you could offer their organization.
