In which we take a deep breath and keep moving forward...

[jesshartley]

Some days it's difficult to keep looking at things in a positive manner. I mean, I try. I really do. I tend to be the "Well, if something bad happens, it could have been worse..." or "Maybe there's an up side to this..." I try to not let negative stuff get me down, and for the most part, I succeed.

Today, I'm having a bit of trouble.

I've been turning in 5-20 job applications a day, every day, for the past month. I've been job searching a bit less seriously for three months now, including a 2+ month period where I was keeping my eye out, but was mostly waiting to hear back on the position with White Wolf (because all the feedback I'd been given was very positive). I would estimate I've sent out something close to 300 applications, mostly either in the gaming industry or in the Phoenix area, over the last few months.

I've been to two job interviews and had one job offer. I have heard nothing from one interview (despite polite follow-up emails that have gone unanswered), been turned down for the other, and ... wait for it... you know it's coming...

Today, I was informed (very apologetically) that the Office Manager position I'd been offered in Phoenix had been given to another person. Now, i understand the company (a small real estate office) was doing right by "one of theirs". A dear friend of their family, who also works in the field, lost their job, and the couple felt like they really needed to support their "clan" by hiring her. I am all for taking care of your people. But it means that I'm once again back to step one on the job search.

I'm really trying to keep my spirits up, and keep looking on the sunny side. I am.

It's just a little cloudy around here today.

But I've got out my binoculars, and I'm on the look out for stray rays.

Comments

[halaku.livejournal.com]

The economy is ugly. But I know you'll pull through.

[matt-m-mcelroy.livejournal.com]

Damn. Sorry to hear it.

I'll keep an eye out for you and help out if I can.

Let me know if you need to vent or just chat.

[irismoonlight.livejournal.com]

Oh, ARGH.

And hugs. Hugs and hugs. There is nothing harder on the ego and self-esteem that job hunting. Be very very very kind to yourself. Wish I had something more useful to offer. You're talented and smart and a motivated self-starter. You'll find something. It will come through.

[bekki-n.livejournal.com]

Argh :( Sorry to hear it *huuugs*

[scholargipsy.livejournal.com]

It's a tough time for me too, job-wise, and keeping my spirits up has been difficult, so I feel your pain only too personally. All I can say is that, while it's reasonable to be discouraged under the circumstances you describe, it's not helpful. Your usual positive attitude is likeliest to bear fruit, assuming it's applied persistently.

I know you know this, so it's not exactly advice -- more like moral support. Hang in there, and good things will be forthcoming in the fullness of time.

[rickj.livejournal.com]

I know how you feel. I spent a lot of last year out of work and it's hard to keep plugging away at it.

And then I found the awesome job I have now.

You'll find your awesome job too.

HUGS

[tradarcher.livejournal.com]

LOTS OF HUGS!!!
I am sorry to hear about the job market. Keep looking. I know you can find something.
Lots of love from both of us

[bluecrazi-angel.livejournal.com]

My suggestion is to get with a few Tempe agencies. I know it's not the best thing but that's how I got with Shamrock. I'm keeping my eyes open at work for you.

[shadowlost665.livejournal.com]

It's the storms that make us stronger. Just hang in there kiddo. You're to talented to be passed by.

[deliciouspear.livejournal.com]

I'm sorry hun, job hunting really really blows.

I don't have any real advice, just much sympathy.

[ultra-lilac.livejournal.com]

I'm sorry. I'm in the same position myself if it's any consolation. I've never had trouble getting work before but this is the third month of looking and I've had two interviews.
Just remember- it's not you, it's the sucky job market.

*hugs*

[jcomer2001.livejournal.com]

*hugs*

[fader.livejournal.com]

Job market is really evil, and it really is tough to stay at all positive. Hang in there, I have faith in you!

[doctorcaligari.livejournal.com]

I'll just echo the overall QFT:

Just try to remember that it's *not you*. It's the #@!@%^& market.

job searching

[silverhawc.livejournal.com]

I can relate. Haven't been at it as long as you have (this round), but am in the position of hunting and not finding a lot, and certainly know what it's like going months on end without a bite.

Difficult, frustrating process that seems to be largely random in the outcome.

All we can do is keep trying and refining our approach. Although somehow I doubt your writing skills need much work. :-)