Miscellaneous

I received a job offer from NY Health Hospital in Harlem back in May, completed the onboarding process, and got a start date. However, the offer was rescinded during the background check due to pending charges that aren't related to the job. Recently, I received a verbal offer for the same position at Kings County Hospital, which is affiliated with Harlem Hospital. I was told to expect an email with the details. After two weeks without any communication, I reached out to the HR recruiter. The next day, she called to inform me that they couldn't proceed with my application because of my file from Harlem Hospital. She questioned why I didn't mention that I had worked there, but I clarified that I never officially worked there since my offer was rescinded. She insisted I should have disclosed that during the interview, despite knowing that New York laws prevent discussing background checks at that stage. I did some research and learned that they may have violated the Fair Chance Act by rescinding the offer based on this information. I'm considering fighting this decision, but I'm unsure if I have a strong case.

I recently found myself unemployed and thought it would be a good idea to start networking with others in a similar situation. I'm 49 years old and based in St. Louis. With over 20 years of experience in sales, I've held various roles ranging from inbound call center representative to operations director for a multi-million dollar company. I've sold a wide range of products and services, including internet services, advertising, and engineering services. I'm looking forward to connecting with others and exploring new opportunities.

I've been on a frustrating job search lately, trying to find opportunities in my city in Michigan. It's baffling how many times I apply for jobs that are literally just down the street, only to find that they don't appear in the search results. Instead, I get listings from places like California or Washington DC, completely missing my local options. Every time I try to apply, I'm met with endless pages of forms and questionnaires, asking for everything from my name and phone number to my favorite cookie. It's exhausting! I've been applying to places like Meijers, Forman Mills, and even the Dollar Store, but despite all this effort, I still don't have a job. When I do get a call, it's often from someone overseas trying to sell me insurance, which just adds to my frustration. I've been staring at my screen for hours, and it's giving me headaches and making my eyes red. I feel like I'm not making any progress at all, while everyone around me seems to be starting new jobs. I can't help but wonder how others are managing to get hired. I've had jobs in the past, but they were through staffing agencies and required me to have a car. Now, it feels like I'm stuck in a loop with no way out.

I recently found myself reflecting on age bias in the tech industry after hearing a conversation that struck a nerve. A man advised a woman, who seemed experienced but not ready for retirement, to consider more realistic employment fields due to her age. It made me think about my own experiences and the challenges faced by seasoned tech workers like myself after being laid off. Having been in the industry for over 20 years, I’ve learned to navigate the hiring process while minimizing age signals on my résumé. I’ve removed my graduation year, focused on the most relevant 15–20 years of experience, and avoided mentioning outdated technologies. But I’m curious about the less obvious signals that might still be affecting my job search. For instance, should I reconsider listing my past senior titles or the dates on my certifications? I’ve even thought about how my email address might come across—definitely not an AOL one! As I look for new opportunities, I wonder at what point the industry decides someone is 'too old.' Is it 50, 55, or even 60? Should I keep pushing to return to a tech role, or is it time to explore different paths, like consulting or volunteering? I’m particularly interested in hearing from others over 50 who have recently gone through a tech job search. Did you manage to get back in? Did you reinvent yourself, or did you leave tech altogether? And for recruiters, what age signals truly matter in the hiring process?

I recently received a concerning email from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment regarding my unemployment claims. I've been working part-time and filing for unemployment when my hours dropped below 32 per week. Unfortunately, I didn't report my income during those weeks, thinking it was okay given the circumstances. Now, I've been informed that my claims from 2023 to 2025 are under investigation for unemployment insurance fraud. The email stated that I may face criminal charges and that I owe a total of $15,450.60, which includes overpaid benefits and a penalty. I never intended to commit fraud, and I'm feeling really anxious about the situation. I need to set up an appointment to discuss this, but I'm worried about the implications it might have on my future.

It's 4:17 AM, and I'm staring at my bank balance, feeling the weight of my situation. I have a stable job at a good company, and my salary should be sufficient. However, every month feels like a struggle. After paying rent, my mom's hospital bills, college tuition, and my dog's vet costs, I'm left with just 7 to 9 thousand rupees to survive on. It's not enough to save, just enough to get by. My mom is battling spinal TB, and she's been hospitalized multiple times. Watching a loved one suffer while I calculate what I can afford is exhausting in a way I never anticipated. I've been job hunting for quite a while now. I meet the qualifications for many positions, yet I still receive automated rejection emails, sometimes just hours after applying. I understand the job market is tough, and I know I should feel fortunate to have a job, which I do on some days. But that sense of luck doesn't cover hospital bills. The hardest part hasn't been the rejections; it's been reaching out to my network only to be met with silence or judgment. One person even told me, "so much invested in your education and you still can't find a job yourself?" That comment has stuck with me longer than any rejection. LinkedIn hasn't been much help either. I've sent numerous messages without any replies, just silence. But I'm not giving up. I still believe in my work. With over 4 years in Customer Success and Operations, I know I'm good at what I do. I'm not looking for a mere salary increase; I want a genuine opportunity that reflects the value of my work and a team that values communication. If anyone is hiring or knows someone who is in Customer Success, CS Ops, or related fields, I would love to connect. I bring a strong work ethic and a proven track record. I just need someone to open the door for me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

It's been nearly two months since I was let go from my job at a small hotel in Texas, and I am beyond frustrated with the unemployment process. I initially filed for benefits too early and had to refile about two weeks later, but now I've been waiting for over a month and a half for any updates. I called the unemployment office this week and was told my claim is still pending but has been expedited because it’s been over six weeks. Today, I received a call from an agent who asked me about the circumstances of my termination. I explained that I was let go without a legitimate reason, likely due to slow business. The management claimed I was making TikTok videos during work hours, not reporting issues, and being on my phone too much, which is all a load of nonsense. The reality is that during my shifts, there were often hours of downtime with nothing to do. My coworkers frequently used their phones, and I was never told it was against policy. The so-called coaching I received was just the owner yelling at me until I cried, with no chance for me to defend myself. There was no HR representative to mediate, so I had to endure the verbal abuse in silence. I also pointed out to the agent that my coworkers didn’t care for me because I actually did my job and often had to correct their mistakes. The manager's claims about me not reporting issues are also false; I always communicated problems to him and the shift changes. The issues they cited as reasons for my termination were outdated and lacked any documentation. I suspect they are going to fight my unemployment claim, just like they did with another employee years ago. I feel a sense of relief now that I’ve been let go, as I wanted to leave since September of last year, but job hunting has been tough. I've had a few interviews lately, but either I didn’t get the job or haven’t heard back. The agent I spoke with took all my statements and said I would hear back soon, but the waiting is exhausting. I haven't received a paycheck in almost two months, and I’m not sure how I’ve been managing. I just want this to be resolved so I can move forward.

I'm currently seeking advice on landing remote AML/KYC roles internationally, particularly from my base in Nigeria. With over ten years of experience in AML/KYC across various sectors, including telecoms and crypto exchanges, I have a solid background. My experience includes high-volume KYC verification at Airtel Mobile Nigeria, where I adhered to NCC and FATF standards, and extensive work at TerraCex cryptocurrency exchange, where I processed over 40,000 verifications in a week. I've also worked in compliance operations at YezCoin Foundation in the UK and remote community operations at Solana Foundation in Singapore. I hold a BSc in Criminology and Security Studies and plan to pursue CAMS certification next. For the past few months, I've been actively applying for remote positions across the USA, UK, UAE, Singapore, and the EU, receiving some responses but no offers yet. I'm not frustrated with the job market; rather, I'm looking for genuine insights from others who have successfully navigated similar situations. I'm curious about effective job boards beyond LinkedIn and Indeed, the impact of direct outreach to hiring managers versus traditional applications, and any strategies that helped others overcome location biases when applying from Africa. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I recently received a separation agreement from my company, where I worked as a project manager. The agreement states that I will enter garden leave in a month, lasting for two weeks. I'm unsure whether I should continue working during this interim period before garden leave kicks in. The severance package is a lump sum of six weeks' pay, which I would receive on my final day. I've been considering whether I should start taking my unlimited PTO starting tomorrow. I've heard mixed opinions on what to do next. Some say that if I stop working now, I risk losing my severance, while others suggest I could ask HR or my manager for clarification. I want to ensure I handle this situation correctly, so any advice on negotiations or soft rules regarding PTO would be greatly appreciated.

I was laid off yesterday from my role at a large consulting company, just one month after returning from a three-month unpaid medical leave. The layoffs were supposedly due to new AI initiatives, which is ironic since our CEO had recently claimed that AI would create new job opportunities. The timing feels particularly troubling to me. During my medical leave, I relocated to another state, and I had only been back at work for a little over a month when I got the news. Interestingly, my client wanted me to stay on; they even questioned why I was being let go since they were still paying for my role. I had also saved positive performance feedback before losing access, so I’m puzzled about the reasons behind my termination. On top of that, the company is actively hiring offshore employees at lower costs while cutting U.S. positions. They offered me a severance package that was surprisingly generous, which raises my suspicions about potential legal risks they might be trying to mitigate. I’m considering speaking with an employment attorney before signing the severance agreement to understand my rights, especially given the circumstances of my layoff. Additionally, I’m anxious about filing for unemployment. Since I moved states just a few months ago and only worked in my new state for about a month before being laid off, I’m unsure where to file or if I’ll even qualify. With over 10 years of experience in software engineering and a Master’s in Data Analytics, I’ve worked extensively in AI, cloud, mobile, and enterprise software. This situation is incredibly stressful for me and my family, and I would appreciate any advice from those who have faced similar challenges.

I experienced an unexpected layoff from my role as an Ops Analyst after just 5 months at the company. I was responsible for all reporting using Excel, BI, and BC, and had received positive feedback from my colleagues. There were no indications that my job was at risk, especially since I had established a reporting structure that was previously nonexistent. On a Thursday morning at 9:30 AM, I received a call from my boss and the SVP, who delivered the news in a very robotic manner: "Thank you for taking the call, we have decided that your position is no longer needed and as a result, you are terminated effective immediately." It was shocking, especially since my boss, who had only been there for about 2 months, seemed to prioritize AI-driven efficiency over actual employee contributions. I had been working my standard 8-hour days, while he was putting in 10-12 hours, which I suspect played a role in their decision-making. I had been on a 1.5-year hiatus before landing this job, thinking I could settle in for at least a year before seeking new opportunities. This experience has reinforced my belief that corporations can be ruthless and will let you go without a second thought. I find it ironic that they let go of one of the few employees who genuinely tried to validate data and provide real insights. Unfortunately, I can't apply for unemployment right now due to the work history cycle, which means I'm feeling a bit down about that. I’m actively applying to 15-30 jobs a day and bracing myself for the possibility of going through multiple interview rounds only to be ghosted again. I wish everyone in a similar situation the best of luck; it seems like a challenging road ahead, especially with the holiday season approaching.

I am currently facing a tough decision at my job as a Data Analyst at a finance company in Texas. I initially accepted this position due to a family emergency, even though it wasn't my first choice. Unfortunately, my experience has been quite challenging. I am the only analyst on my team, and my manager, who referred me, tends to micromanage, creating a toxic work environment. This has taken a toll on my mental health, leading me to seek therapy and medication. Recently, I was placed on an unofficial Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) back in May, and despite my efforts to improve, I was presented with an official PIP or a two-month severance package. I have until Monday to decide. My mental health is suffering, and I am considering the severance, especially since HR has indicated they won't contest my unemployment claim if I choose that route. However, they are now classifying my departure as voluntary, which complicates things. I have lost weight due to stress, and my physical health has declined as well. I am also looking to change careers, as I no longer want to stay in finance. I have been exploring other options and taking evening classes to pivot my career. After nearly a year and a half in this role, I feel burnt out and unsupported. I’m reaching out for advice on whether to take the severance or attempt to navigate the PIP, as I feel like my company is just waiting for an opportunity to let me go.

Today, I was informed by one of my managers that I am being placed on a "plan" for the next 30 days, which feels very much like a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), even though they didn't officially label it as such. I have two managers: one who has always supported me and another who is known for micromanaging. This second manager has been particularly critical of my work, often requiring me to get her approval on emails, which can take her weeks. This delay has caused issues with clients and has led to me forgetting about emails I’ve sent her. During our conversation, my manager stated that he wants to help me grow in the company, but the structure of weekly check-ins and the threat of escalating to a 60 to 90-day plan with HR involvement if I don't meet expectations feels concerning. I’ve made a few mistakes in my emails, and while I understand the need for oversight, the micromanagement style is frustrating. I’m the youngest on the team and at the start of my career, and I’ve heard complaints from other account executives about this manager’s behavior, including her tardiness and poor communication. I’m unsure how to navigate this situation, especially since no formal paperwork has been signed. I’m considering sending a recap email to clarify the meeting details and involve HR to ensure everything is documented.

I was recently laid off from my role at a major tech company after 15 years, where I had mostly been a manager. The last couple of years had been tough due to toxic management in my team, and I had started looking for internal opportunities. Just days after my layoff, I was fortunate enough to land a new job within the same company. However, the experience of those five days of uncertainty was incredibly stressful, especially considering I had to think about how to support my family. I also helped some of my former team members find new roles internally, which felt good but didn't erase the bitterness I feel towards my previous organization for the way they handled the layoffs. Even now, I find it hard to shake off the resentment. I still have to interact with my old team and director, and it’s frustrating when they ask for my help or insights. I used to enjoy being a people manager and climbing the corporate ladder, but now I'm an individual contributor, which feels like starting over. I genuinely like my new team and the work I'm doing, but I can't help but think about my past experiences. I'm struggling with how to move on while still being at the same company. Is it possible to truly move on, or is this something that only time or therapy can heal? It’s frustrating because these thoughts creep into my mind every morning when I log in.

I recently moved to Dallas, TX after getting married and am currently working in GIS, where I've spent the last 5 years. I also have a year of experience in land surveying, primarily using ArcPro and ArcMap. Originally from a rural town in Alabama, I grew up helping my grandfather with his cattle, and now I'm looking to transition out of GIS while still utilizing my skills. I love working with computers and have built my own homelab, but I really dislike the city life and the long commutes to an office. I'm seeking a full-time IT position at a ranch, farm, or equestrian center where I can return to my roots and work in a more natural setting. I've tried reaching out to around 15 people in the area but haven't had any luck. My resume includes roles as a GIS Technician and CAD Technician, along with certifications from Auburn University in mapping and drafting. If anyone has leads or advice on finding such a position, I would greatly appreciate it!

I recently received notice of my layoff from my role at a nonprofit organization, and I have to continue working until November. I had a feeling this was coming, but it still hit hard. While I don’t need to be in the office every day, I will have to go in occasionally, and honestly, it's been really tough. Every time I step into the office, I feel overwhelmed and want to cry. I’ve been feeling quite depressed about the situation and the job market, and I find myself crying at home too, especially since I can do that in the comfort of my own space. My boss's comment during the layoff notice didn’t help either; she mentioned that at least my cat and I wouldn’t be homeless since I rent from family. I think she meant well, but it made me feel worse. I'm trying to remain professional and leave on a good note, but I'm struggling with the emotional toll of these office days. I’m actively searching for a new job and will receive unemployment benefits if I can’t secure something quickly. I’m not necessarily looking for advice on the job search itself, but I would appreciate any tips on coping with the in-office work during this difficult time. I just want to make it through this period without losing my composure.

I've been reflecting on the changes at my company over the past five years, and I'm starting to wonder if they might be warning signs of potential layoffs. First, the company split into two separate entities, which was a significant shift. Then, there was a reorganization where roles were shuffled around, although they did bring in some new hires. Most recently, our CEO retired, which has added to the uncertainty. I've also noticed that many colleagues are being asked to come up with value-adding initiatives, which feels a bit concerning. I can't help but think that three major changes in such a short time might indicate something more serious is brewing. I've read about others' experiences with layoffs and how they often have warning signs that can go back years. For instance, hiring freezes, mandatory early dismissals, and a general lack of overtime were common indicators. I’m curious if anyone else has experienced similar situations and if they had any early signs that they ignored at the time.

I filed my unemployment claim on August 31, 2026, and I'm trying to understand if I've been approved. I've already claimed benefits for two weeks and plan to file my third weekly claim this Sunday. My waiting week ended on September 6, and I'm hoping to receive payments for the weeks ending September 13 and September 20. I noticed that my unpaid week was processed on September 16, even though the waiting week ended earlier. My payment history shows $0.00 for the week ending September 6, which has me a bit confused. Can I assume that my claim went through and that I should expect payments next Tuesday or Wednesday? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

I've been working at my current company for nearly five years, but the last two years have been quite challenging. My manager's frustration with the company often spilled over into our interactions, and on one occasion, he yelled at me during a meeting with our business partners when I was giving an update. I was taken aback and didn’t know how to respond, fearing potential retaliation. I initially thought it was just a one-off incident, but his behavior became a pattern. Thankfully, he is no longer with the company, but now I'm left trying to rebuild my confidence before I start applying for new positions. The toughest part is viewing job postings through the lens of my actual skills and experience as a senior manager, rather than the self-doubt that has crept in from my current environment. I also find myself questioning whether potential workplaces are safe. To help with this, I've started looking at managers and their teams on LinkedIn to see how long people have stayed at companies, hoping to gauge the culture. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has faced a similar situation of being yelled at or mistreated at work. What strategies did you use to rebuild your confidence and trust in your own abilities?

I'm 25 years old and I've been working since I was 16 to cover my rent, but I've reached a breaking point. I can't seem to keep a job for more than a year because either the work is mind-numbingly boring or I end up dealing with coworkers who treat me poorly, which makes me feel like I'd rather be homeless than endure that kind of environment. I prefer working with the public rather than being isolated, but my frustration builds up quickly, and I find myself quitting when I can no longer handle it. I have ADD and identify as female, and I suspect I might be on the autism spectrum, which affects how I perceive certain sensory experiences. While most people can't tell, it frustrates me that I often look younger than I am, leading to a lack of respect from others who make incorrect assumptions about my age and capabilities. I'm nearing the end of my college journey, but I'm not convinced that a higher salary will change my feelings about work. The reality is that most jobs barely pay enough to cover living expenses, and I'm just tired of feeling like I'm trapped in a cycle of being undervalued and overworked.