Well, I'm joining the ranks of the unemployed...

[Snoozan]

Just found out this week my whole department is getting laid off - we did our jobs so well when the new computer system came in that "they" decided our work could be done by our group offices. Kinda feels like a kick in the pants after all the OT and headaches we've gone through. I've been in the same building for almost 31 years and although I've worked for 4 different companies - I've basically worked with the same people all those years. Oh yeah, they are rehiring most of the employees who work in another location which is 1 1/4 hours one way for me. I don't make enough money to justify the travel - I just get the feeling they wanted to get rid of employees who worked away from the "home" office and alot of us had 25+ years of service. I'm working my way past the anger phase and have resigned myself to the fact I've got only 2 weeks left. At least I have my trip to the Grand Canyon/AZ my first week of being unemployed! I also have my Disney trip bought and paid for for the week after Thanksgiving to look forward to. Oh well, I'm optimistic something will come up - I am very fortunate that I have a year a severance so I don't have to rush out to find a job - this might be the time to take some classes/training for myself. And, I get to spend more time with my adorable grandson this summer!

 

[jlewisinsyr]

Even before losing your job, you should be continuing to gain education, most companies offer some sort of educational assistance and it's worth every penny even if you pay for it.

 

[Keli]

I'm sorry this is happening, it's such a difficult thing to face. Best wishes for finding the perfect job very quickly!

 

[akcire]

OP- I understand how you feel. My layoff date is April 7. My company is relocating our office to NC to save money. For me it is not really a money issue, my husband can more than support us and I will get a few months of severance; however I have worked at my company more than 5 years and have a really sweet schedule and enjoy many of my co-workers. I will look for new work, in my state I am considered a displaced worker since the whole office is closing. I am told this opens up additional training to me??

Keep your spirits up

 

[Planogirl]

That year of severance will help but I can't imagine how let down you feel. This is all too common nowadays.

 

[heatherleigh]

Glad you have the upcoming trips to look fwd to. I hope you find something you enjoy. My husband was unemployed for almost 2 yrs, so I know how that goes.

 

[Robinrs]

Wow, I can totally understand.

Please start looking now because it sometimes takes well over a year to get a job. This way you'll be ahead of the game.

I totally agree with taking classes. I took several and I'm now using what I learned in my current job. There are lots of opportunities for the unemployed, do a search in your area.

 

[DVC~OKW~96]

Do just one thing. Tell yourself over, and over, and over until you believe it, that this is NOT personal toward you in any way.

All too often, folks who are laid off, end up internalizing the action over which they had NO control. None. Nada. Zip. You couldn't have worked harder, or better, or more. It was a decision that did not take YOU into account.

OK? Just work on believing that. Then enjoy the time off!

 

[Mrs.Reese]

I'm so sorry. I was laid off in June 2008. It took me till Sept. 2009 to find another teaching position. Don't wait to look for work. Start looking now and keep those contacts handy.

 

[a1tinkfans]

Sorry OP.
I agree with the others, keep your networking skills up to date, keep in touch and start looking sooner rather than later. SO many people out of work means competition is stiff, takes a long time to find that perfect match. Best of luck to you

 

[Magic Mom]

 

[marcyinPA]

So sorry!! My dh was laid off a week ago tomorrow, with no notice at all. It stinks

I wish you much success in finding new, suitable employment!

 

[kaytieeldr]

OP - do you have a Health/Flexible Spending Account? Go spend your entire YEAR'S allotment before the layoff. Okay, check with HR first - but most plans allow this.

 

[s&k'smom]

That's a bummer, I know how you feel, I got laid off last april from a job I was great at, they all loved me and I had the chance to move up but alas they got rid of my position. I like you idea about spending time with your grandson, that's a great idea.

 

[SpaceGirl]

Even with a year of severance pay, you should still be eligible for unemployment benefits.

 

[Robinrs]

Even with a year of severance pay, you should still be eligible for unemployment benefits.

I guess that depends on your state. I was not eligible until the severance ran out.

 

[jlewisinsyr]

I guess that depends on your state. I was not eligible until the severance ran out.

GA or NY? In NY if your severance includes the same level and benefits as your original position, you are ineligible for unemployment until the severance is over. The benefits part is usually the catch as most severance does not include benefits.

 

[KatieA]

Sorry to hear about your job loss. Enjoy your vacations and hopefully something else will come along soon.