| Author | Message | ||
     Blasterd |
I got laid off today. What a way to start a thread, and end a day. My wife will be home in about an hour and it sucks having to tell her. But even worse, looking at my kids right now and me knowing that I have no way to support them at the moment. I am deeply in debt and risk loosing alot because of them bastards. 2 weeks pay........after all I have done for this company I just need support from you guys Ken | ||
| Spooky |
Ken, I'm sorry to hear about you getting laid off. It seams to be trend right now. We just lost 2600 people at my work and more to come. I'm counting down the days until my turn comes up. Eric  | ||
| Rex |
sorry to hear. It is tough. I was out last year from sept 29 till dec. 15th. It worked out and I am as good, if not better than last year...It is tough mentally......hang in there......rex | ||
| Blasterd |
thanks guys, although I normally would not admit it, I am terribly devastated and equally scared. Ken | ||
| Kevyn |
Hmmm, not sure what to say...last time I had to go through this I was glad to be out of the hourly wage situation. I was working with some horrible people and quite ready to go. Unemployment compensation from the state kept me afloat. In the mean time, I made sure that my resume was current, posted on appropriate search sites and updated frequently to keep me in contact and familiar with changing employment demands. However, I had no inclination to return to the past work situation. You may go back to work quickly. That solves some problems. While you're waiting for the next job, local community colleges have workshops on interviewing skills and conducting job searches. Your state employment agency should offer similar workshops. Use the state agency for all it's worth. State employees are not well motivated and will do nothing for you unless you make some sort of contact with them frequently and show them you want to take advantage of all they can offer in the way of assistance. They do offer placement services and some will have computerized searching and you'll be able to post a resume/skills set so potential employers can see you also. This is a good time to re-evaluate your skills and decide if you need to upgrade, retrain, relocate as scary as that sounds. This will also be a time to figure out what it is that you would like to do for compensation. I know the picture is bleak the day after, but I also know that tomorrow will be a totally different day with totally different possibilities that you can't even think about right now. Remember, you did nothing wrong, it's not personal. Your wife will still love and your children will love you NO MATTER WHAT. Working together, you'll find a way to solve every problem and situation that arises. IF, you feel like it's as bad as it can get and can't possibly get any worse, get help immediately. From personal experience, tomorrow will be better, just let it be. Tomorrow will be a different day with new possibilities and a better future. On the really brite side, while you're at the state offices, they may have really great computer access and you can visit here! You can share your feelings, it's alright and perfectly natural to have strong emotions at a time like this in your life. Actually, it's times like this when you begin to realize how important your family is and how many resources are actually available to you in family, friends and colleagues. Keep your spirits up and keep us posted on your progress. | ||
| Dynarider |
I was in a similar situation last year after 15 years with the same company. I didnt even know how to apply for a job anymore. After a month & a half off tho the phone was ringing off the hook with job offers. I am now doing better than ever & am glad it happened. | ||
| Glitch |
When I worked for Hubbell they shut the whole plant down. My wife didn't work and I have 3 kids. Ya know, after all the emotions were finished working me over, I decided to look for another job as many hours as I would work in a week. As it turned out it was the kick in the pants I needed. So far out of the years I've worked for Coke, I've survived 3 major lay offs, with one in the works now. We're not as worried as things that don't kill you tend to make you stronger. You will survive and you will become stronger. | ||
| Jim_witt |
Ken, If it makes you feel any better I’ve been in a similar position several times in the past. When I was 43 I tore both shoulders up power lifting in a meet (actually ripped everything off the bone and have 12” scares on each shoulder). I was off work for 8 months with no compensation. Just about lost everything I had. Then there was the time I was in a motorcycle accident and broke both legs (full-cast), shattered my kneecaps and broke both arms. That was a 10 months ordeal, no compensation. Oh, I also got ran over by a tractor and crushed my pelvis, broke both hips and screwed up my back forever (so it seems). Only 14 months on that episode, no compensation. I also lost a successful business. Damn, I forgot to mention I was a single parent throughout all these adventures in life. I’ve raised both of my kids since they were 2 and 4 years old too (now 23 and 24). There were quite a few Christmases with absolutely no presents and no tree, not to mention some pretty sad birthdays. My kids never had snazzy clothes or shoes, a new bicycle or any of the cool games and toys. I drove a piece of shit truck for 10 years, which I bought in a junkyard for $700.00. It was so ugly my kids didn’t even want to ride in the puppy. I could go on with quite a few more stories, my layoffs and starting over several times but you’re getting my point, you’re not the lone ranger in devastation department, plus there nothing wrong with being scared. What I’ve learned over the years is “everything” works itself out in the end and worrying about it doesn’t solve the problem. Some have it easy and others have to work at it. It’s just the way life is. There are a bunch of folks out there that have it much worse. The only advise I have is hang in there and don’t let your present condition and situation get the best of you. Trust me, if you loose a few or a lot of material things you can get them back later ... I did. Hang in there, -JW:>  Oops, forgot to mention both my kids turned out execellet! Not a single problem. No drugs, no drinking, very responsible and well adjusted. edited by jim_witt on October 03, 2003 | ||
| Ferris |
Ken, not sure what to say but i know from personal experience that having friends on BADWEB tell you that they care means a bunch when the chips are down. hang in there, things will get better, and remember that fear can be a pretty effective motivator. Kevyn, your reply to Ken brought tears to my eyes. nice words, man. and Ken, like he said: keep your spirits up and keep us posted. FB | ||
| Nevco1 |
Ken, Am sorry to learn of your situation. Just keep actively pursuing your career and you will do well. The best advise I could give was already presented by Kevyn. Take heed to his words as they are what got me through a few similar crises. God Bless and Keep the Faith! You will do well. Bill | ||
| Ezblast |
Ken - you have my best wishes for speedily finding a career you'll enjoy! I've had to search hard myself in that areana - I know its not easy. Good advice has been given - the net can be very usefull - found my hopefully last job there on Craig's List. Don't forget to get in a little riding to keep the mind clear - Finding the job you want will be the hardest job you ever work - sorry but true. From all the things I've ever read of yours you've always impressed me as a smart level headed person - I'm sure you'll handle this well and conclude with a job you'll enjoy! - Luck Bro! EZ | ||
| Crusty |
Ken, I used to work in construction, where layoffs are common, so being unemployed doesn't bother me as much as it would someone who's worked a steady job for a significant length of time. Unemployment Compensation pays approximately 50% of your weekly gross pay. Nearly all your creditors will work with you while you're our of work, letting you pay partial payments if you can't pay the full amount. Last time I was unemployed, AOL gave me 2 free months of service. Keep in mind that everything's going to be O.K. Being out of work is only a temporary condition. You're going to be fine. And you're going to find a job that you'll really enjoy. | ||
| Court |
I am constantly reminded of the range of expereinces and wise counsel among the folks here. Ken, you did the FIRST right thing and that is TALKING about it. The semi-anonymity of this board makes it a great place. First off...congratulations. Last year, on my birhtday during the only 3 days of the years my kids (22 and 24) were able to escape college, jobs, girls, etc and come visit me, I was given walking papers for refusing to do something patently illegal. I was devastated . . . having 2 kids in college didn't help. For the first couple months I pissed and moaned. Spent the requisite several grand thinking about suing them. Then friends, at home and here, prevailed, with a common "get off your ass" chorus. I've taken a job now that is well over $100,000 less than I was making a year ago. My earnings just barely exceed what my college senior son makes. But, I am a very happy camper. Turns out the bastards I was working for were dishonest and deceitful to lots of folks OTHER than me, staying there any longer would only have tarnished my reputation in the industry. So...talk, keep telling folks you love them (ever when a host of other things seems more important at the moment), get that resume's together (yes, any of us here who write would be happy to proofread or help you write it) and vow to yourself to skip (I've found that skipping lightens the apparent weight of problems), take a deep breath and get going. You are going to do dandy. Court P.S. - funny story: After I left my last job, the folks from Turner Construction and Boston Properties were actually bold and kind enough to write me a wonderful letter. One of them said, via e-mail..."you were never a "fit" in that group. Whenever one of them lied, you cringed". The next time someone told me I didn't understand "New York Construction", I thanked them and gave'em a little guy hug! Beleive in yourself. | ||
| Hans |
Hi Ken, You have joined the club. Now you are completely on your own. That is way, I look upon Americans: Individuals who can take care of their own lives, no matter what happens. Independently and bravely facing the future, going strongly forward. Take your situation just as seriously and calmly as your work: Considering all kinds of scenarios, be prepared and take immediately the necessary steps to exclude the worst scenarios. Well: That will do you feel already a little bit better. Don`t let Mr. Selfpity take over. He can be your most dangerous enemy. One good stiff drink to drain all the misery of the world through the sewer can be helpful: But, as said: ONE. Don`t be too concerned about you kids: If you have to follow a scenario with a lot of changing for them: Their happiness, nor their future, will be dependent of the amount of dollars their Dad brings in: They are young and extremely flexible as long they are beloved. Hey man, you are still a born American ! With all sympathy, Hans | ||
| Jst |
I put myself in an unemployed situation because of a hostile work environment. I have spent the last 7 months getting to know my kids 17, 6 and 5. As Mr. Mom, my eyes have been opened to a whole new life. My family is living nicely on what my wife brings in and what I earn doing oddball stuff (ever hear of balloon chasing for a living?). This is about 1/3rd what we lived on before. So what if we can't afford a new big screen TV? The good news is, I get to ride Em more. I will not be going back to the corporate world. What good am I to my family if I have a heart attack before 50? The point is, take the time to access what's important to you. Money isn't everything. | ||
| Jim_witt |
John, Sound advise ...... just don’t what to miss lead anyone. Unemployment compensation isn't approximately 50% of an individuals weekly gross pay. Each State has a maximum benefit you can collect, regardless of your yearly gross income. Arizona “had” a maximum compensation of $180.00 per week for the last 25 years, up until last year. It's now at a whopping $210.00 per week, which is "approximately" what someone nets at Jack-in-the box for their 50 hour a week job. The best thing an unemployed individual can do (if they meet the requirements) is file an out of State claim in a state that has a “higher maximum benefit”. Washington State for example has a $600.00 a week maximum benefit claim. The Boston area has some sort of tri-State thing going for them too that is quite high, especially if you have kids. Everyone I know (from Arizona) that meets the requirements filed their claim in Washington State or Boston. If you live in Arizona, collecting the $600.00 a week makes more sense than collecting $210.00. -JW:> | ||
| Court |
>>>If you live in Arizona, collecting the $600.00 a week makes more sense than collecting $210.00. And to think that you've led us to beleive you are but a humble welder.  I hereby confer upon you the first Badweb Award in Advanced Mathmatics. Court (New York is $364.50 per week) | ||
| Buckinfubba |
I feel for ya even tho I have never been in your situation. The times I've been out of work it was my choice. I owned my business for 15 years after that so I was as safe as my own skills led me. Now I work for somebody else. Who knows when that will end. Court is right tho, talking about it is a good thing. Hang in there and good luck to you. | ||
| M2me |
About six weeks ago I got a 33% cut in pay. The advertising agency I've worked at for seven and half years has had a very bad time the past two years. Two years ago there were 90 employees. Now there are only six employees left, three full time and three part time. One positive thing for me is that the economy seems to have bottomed out and things should be slowly getting better. I am looking for a better job now and hopefully will find something soon. Hang in there Blasterd, I really think better economic times will be here soon. edited by m2me on October 04, 2003 | ||
| Blasterd |
You guys have been so helpful in many ways with my bike, but the kind words you have said to me here speaks volumes to what such great people you are. God bless all of you. Ken | ||
| Buellbob |
Ken I've been in your shoes. You've gotten alot of good advise here. Network with people you know let them know you need some thing to do. In my situation my brother got me a parttime/spare driver in at the company he worked for. That led to parttime work in one of the wharehouses I did deliveries for when I was driving. I also had a friend who wanted a break on the weekends from driving his cab. So I went down and got the required licence and drove cab on weekends. Never did collect unemployment benefits. My present job I ended up getting because of a newspaper strike and have been at it for twenty years now. I've been layed off about three times in that time. Anyway the point is things will work out. Oh yeah all that stuff took place just after I had moved into a new house with two very young children and my wife was pregnant with the third. Last bit of advice is to start to cut your spending down to the minimum and you would be surprized what you can live on. Best of luck. Bob | ||
| Phillyblast |
Ken, I just went through an almost-layoff/firing (I got caught in the middle of a pissing contest between depts. and was the sacrificial lamb, it seems) and after serving a suspension I'm back at work with reduced pay. I took it out on my fiance, not intentionally, or actively, but I did. We talked this weekend, spent some "quality time" together, and I realized that no matter what, family and friends are the most important things in my life. Some of the absolutely best people I have met in my entire life I've met through BadWeb - Aaron and Susan, Henrik, Peter, PaulinOz, BuellBob, FiremanJim, Dale (Rattler) and Tami, Snail and his daughter, Chop, Pop, and the Supermodel, Rocket, Court, and everyone else that I've left out because it's a long effin' list. You should still have my cell phone # if you feel like calling to talk - if not I'll email it to you again on Monday. Take a couple of days, sort through it, and then get to work looking for work. It's a full time job just like any other. I'm looking right now, too. I'm also thinking about "what else I want to do with my life" right now, because the woman I love doesn't care what I do for a living, or how much money I make, she just wants to be with me, and see me happy, which is why I love her. So take a moment to smell the roses, realize it's perfectly normal to be depressed/despondent/etc., remember that your family loves you for you, not a number on a pay stub, and go find yourself some greener pastures. They're out there, never fear. Life's funny sometimes. But, like an S1 seat, it is what it is. If there's anything I can do, let me know, and keep your head up. You're not the only one in this situation right now, so take comfort in the fact that you're not alone, and don't let the bastards get you down. David | ||
| Tripper |
Kansas is 351/week. I'm drawing it now. Second time in 3 years I've been on extended house sitting duty. It can be challenging. Blasterd: please call me at 770-774-0591. Monday, I'll be out riding all day Sunday. I read some things in your message that I have faced recently, let's discuss some things and make sure you are doing what needs to happen. Sounds like you've had your pity party, now let's kick ass and get employed. This can be a positive thing. Almost always is to those who travel this road. DaveT | ||
| Pilot |
Nil carbarundum el bastardos,Sorry my spelling and memory lets me down.Roughly translated and I do mean roughly translated means "Do Not let the barstards grind you down". | ||
| Denisea |
Ken, Don't post here much but if a word or two makes a difference - know that everything will work out. Sometimes "getting out" - one way or the other - is the best thing that ever happens. The silver lining being an opportunity you may have not taken the chance on before. I started in a new field over 10 years ago and could not be happier. Hallmarky to hell - sending thoughts your way. Denise | ||
| Libnosis |
Hi Ken, I've been there. I was working as a diesel mechanic at a cryogenic company in 1991. I had left my job at UPS Truck Leasing (where I had seniority) to come to the cryogenic company. They offered me a buck more on the hour and told me the cryogenic business was recession proof. I took them up on the offer. I was going to school part time pursuing a BS in Computer Science. Six months later, they laid me off (LIFO). My wife was 6 months pregnant at the time with our first child. After initially freaking out and wanting to kick all the liars asses, I came to the conclusion it was a *sign* from above. Sounds weird but that’s how I rationalized my predicament. I decided that I needed to go to school fulltime. I worked nights at a local truck stop for the next two years until I graduated. BTW I met some great people at the truckstop that are still good friends of mine. Here are some contacts we use to bring in software developers as potential employees. I don't know if they could help you in your line of work but you never know, contacts are contacts. Make sure you have your resume up to date. Steven Stewart SYSTEMTEC, INC. 84 Villa Road, Suite 230 Greenville, SC 29615 Tel: 864-250-0730 Toll Free:888-829-0302 Fax: 864-250-0380 Cell: 864-275-8827 sstewart@systemtec.net Dan Coombs Tek Systems 555 North Pleasantburg Drive Suite 100 Greenville, SC 29607 (864) 467-2234 Fax (864) 467-9116 Cell (864) 430-2715 dcoombs@teksystems.com Jennifer Webb Account Executive RHI Consulting 75 Beattie Place, Suite 930 Greenville, SC 29601 ph. 864-232-7442 fx. 864-232-1751 Jennifer.Webb@rhic.com Beard, Beth MDI Consulting 5 Century Drive Suite 150 Greenville, SC 29607 (864) 298-0023 bbeard@mdicareers.com Keep looking for the silver lining, it's in there somewhere. libnosis | ||
| Bomber |
Ken Your kids and wife will love you no matter what your employment status (mine did, throughout my almost year-long jobless state) . . . . depending on your location and job type, a new gig may mean a cut in pay (tech in Chicago, for example), but those who care for/about you will no matter what. I'll repeat the advise of others here -- treat finding a job as a job . . . . . put at least 40 hours a week into it, and use the opportunity to get to know your kids better, and, maybe, try a new field . . .. . it hurts, it's scarey as hell, and it makes ya mad . . . . good can come out of it in the end . . . . strobe me at my prpofeil email if ya like . . .I may be able to offer more advise . . . . . like Court sez, keep talkin bud . . . . withdrawl is very bad for your tummy, and your soul | ||
| Kaudette |
Hey Blastered, In your profile it says you are 30 so here's a few words from the "somewhat" wise. You've got your whole life ahead of you - I'm guessing this is the first time you've been in this situation - hang in there, in time you may see that this turns into just one of many of life's experiences that make us better and focus our time and energy on those things that matters most - family, friends, happiness, etc. I've been known to put work first on many an occassion, and in hindsight it was not the best decision - to say the least - in addition, I work in a field where most of my colleagues are divorced because of work pressures and travel - well, the day the company wanted to increase profits - and bang, these people were gone - companies don't have regrets - that's just for the PR departments - friends and families have regrets - and you know what - few if any of these regrets has to do with professional succes and status. I agree wholeheartedly with Bomber above. Keep talking - especially to your family and friends - take a step back and figure out what you want to get out of life - what your family wants to get out of your life together (not the paycheck - out of LIFE) and then have a look at the means to get you there. Keep the spirits up and best of luck taking that step back to get the big picture. | ||
| Blasterd |
Hi everyone, I filed my claim today to receive benefits and begin my career as a job seeker. Benefits here in Florida are 275.00 weekly, a far cry from the 40,000 a year I am used to. I do appreciate the kind words from everyone and all the advise and help you have lent me and I will keep you posted. Dave T, I tried you today but you were not in. I will catch you another time. To make matters worse, I can't even go riding to ease my mind because of the primary leak on my M2.  Ken | ||
| Buelliedan |
Ken, I know this doesn't help you but I want to say "thanks" for helping me put things in perspective. You see I am in the Army. I currently have 18 years in and should be retiring in the next 2-3 years at age 40. I also like toys very much as is way too evident in my profile. Why I want to say thanks is because after reading your story I have decided to hold off on a few purchases I have been contemplating. I really want a new Diesel Dually pickup but I don't need it. I also want a XB12R but I really don't need it. Instead I have decided that I want to pay off all my credit cards and any other bills before I buy anything new. That way if I cannot find a job right away after the Army I will be okay and not have to stress. Thanks for your help. |
