I'm so f****** tired and exhausted.
You remember the small publisher I did contract work for back in Nov/Dec. The editor in chief more recently asked me if I'd be interested in a full-time, in-house project manager job and that she'd get back to me early this week, as soon as she "worked out the details" of the job.
I spent a lot of time crunching the numbers to see if I could survive on $40 or $45K, the amount I was guessing they'd offer. I wanted to make sure it was doable, and to be prepared if and when an offer came.
I finally heard back from her this morning. They've decided to turn it into a part-time staff position, which means they would take out FICA taxes but there would be no medical benefits. It would be 20 to 25 hours a week, 2 days in-house, 1 day at home. And I'm guessing it would still pay just $15/hr.
She said it would be research, writing the listings and using Quark, but also learning FileMaker and occasionally interacting with editors at various publications.
I'm like, totally demoralized, crushed. I thought I could finally escape chronic unemployment. I guess not. I just can't go on like this. They want to bleed you dry.
If I made between $300 and $375 a week, I guess this would again extend my dwindling unemployment benefits. At this point, I don't even know that they'd hire me, becus I don't know Quark (not sure she's aware of this) and I don't know FileMaker.
I'm just really so upset. I feel like every door I knock on is shut in my face. Full-time, salaried jobs with benefits just seem like an unattainable mirage that's always just beyond my reach.
Trying to climb out of a box with no openings
January 20th, 2012 at 03:58 pm
January 20th, 2012 at 04:40 pm 1327077608
That seems to be the trend everywhere. Sending best wishes and non-Januaryish thoughts your way.
January 20th, 2012 at 04:54 pm 1327078459
How disappointing and frustrating. I'm thinking of you, patientsaver. I hope something works out.
January 20th, 2012 at 05:03 pm 1327079004
The only thing I can offer is that when our company brings in temporary or part time employees, and we find that their performance and personality fit, they become top candidates on the list when full time opens....
So hoping for good things for you this year!
January 20th, 2012 at 05:08 pm 1327079326
I was surprised when an old friend of mine who is very conservative and usually counsels me to take whatever job I can, responded to this latest news this way:
"sadly, a supply and demand situation - many others out of work - but, hold out for $30 an hour - if they object, say your final offer is $25
an hour - take it or leave it - if they can't give you that, for such responsibility, move on - say good bye to them - they might even call you back in a few weeks and offer you the $25 when they see what else is out there..keep your head high - you deserve more...."
If i demanded $25/hr., I'm pretty sure they'd move on to the next candidate in line. This seems so out of character with his usual advice.
January 20th, 2012 at 05:10 pm 1327079409
Your continuing struggles are a big reason I cling to my rather crappy job. You sound way more experienced and capable than me, so I keep thinking if you can't find permanent employment, what hope would I have if I didn't have this job?
January 20th, 2012 at 05:16 pm 1327079771
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January 20th, 2012 at 05:40 pm 1327081203
I can't imagine how many people in your place would be on welfare, homeless, or worse, by now. You are definitely a super survivor.
January 20th, 2012 at 06:19 pm 1327083541
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January 21st, 2012 at 07:35 pm 1327174525
I am also rooting for you and sending good thoughts your way.
January 21st, 2012 at 07:50 pm 1327175407
You have a lot a friends here, and I'm sure the real world will catch up soon and realize what a gem you are!
January 23rd, 2012 at 02:31 am 1327285889