Planning

I'm currently feeling pretty frustrated in my framing job where I work with a wealthy clientele who can be quite unbearable. The person in charge is also contributing to a toxic environment, and I'm seriously considering a change. I used to work at Hobby Lobby from 2018 to 2024, where I held various roles including frame shop management, and I was making around $25/hr. I gave up three weeks of vacation for this job, which has turned out to be a poor decision since I enjoy traveling. I recently visited a Costco in Traverse City, MI, and was impressed by the happy employees and the pay, which I hear can start at $29/hr or more. However, I know that starting pay can vary based on experience and position. I'm curious if Costco really lives up to its reputation as a great place to work, especially since I'm hesitant to leave my current job without a solid guarantee of a better work environment and pay. I've heard mixed reviews about working at Costco, with some saying the benefits and raises are great, while others mention the physical demands of the job. I'm looking for insights on whether it's worth making the switch, as I left retail for a reason and want to ensure my next move is a positive one for my mental health.

I'm currently navigating a challenging phase in my career at 21. Right now, I'm working as a Wind Turbine Technician, but I'm starting to regret this choice due to a long commute of over 1 hour and 30 minutes each way and the difficult dynamics with external contractors at my job. The expectation to work overtime daily leaves me with little time or energy for my personal life. I've held a variety of jobs since leaving school, including hotel work, factory work, warehouse work, field-based work, and airport ground handling. While I have a strong interest in engineering and game development, I'm unsure about my long-term career path. My concern is that my diverse work history might make potential employers view me as someone who jumps from job to job. I'm now considering seeking opportunities closer to home that align more with my interests in engineering, manufacturing, mechanical work, or even game development. I'm eager to find a role where I can develop my skills and build a meaningful career.

I recently completed my Level 2 and ECS certifications in the electrical trade here in the UK. At 28 years old, I'm eager to start my career as an electrician mate/improver, but I'm facing significant challenges. Despite my basic handyman experience and some work I've done in my own home and for friends, I have no formal experience in the field. I've been applying for jobs for the past three months, but it seems like every company is looking for candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience, and I haven't received any responses. I've tried reaching out to trade agencies and contacting companies directly, but my calls and emails have gone unanswered. I'm starting to feel lost and unsure of how to proceed. I've even considered going into pubs on Fridays to network with electricians, but I'm not convinced that's a viable strategy. If anyone has advice or tips on how to break into the industry, I would greatly appreciate it.

I'm currently navigating my job search and career trajectory in the Silicon Valley area, where I've spent the last five years working in semi to fully autonomous robotics, specifically within manufacturing. I started as a technician earning $24/hr and most recently worked as a floor lead at $50/hr. Although I'm still employed in a role related to autonomous human robotics for a company that sells to a FAANG company, I find myself disliking this position, especially coming from a background in medical and warehousing robots designed to assist workers. I'm pursuing an AS degree in engineering to transition into engineering technician roles, but I'm facing challenges in finding suitable job openings. It seems that there are very few team lead or line lead positions available in manufacturing that aren't focused on heavy chemical or cleanroom chip production. The alternative jobs I've encountered often come with undesirable conditions, such as long commutes, night shifts, and low pay around $27/hr. I've been searching for job opportunities outside of the usual company websites, but platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn haven't been helpful. I can't seem to refine my searches effectively. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has advice on how to find worthwhile job openings or if there are specific job titles I might be qualified for that I'm overlooking. Additionally, I'm interested in learning about skills, certifications, or courses that could enhance my appeal for higher-level positions. Any insights or experiences from others in the robotics manufacturing field would be greatly appreciated!

I recently graduated with my master's degree and had been struggling to find a job for about three months. I finally accepted an entry-level position at a hospital, which I was set to start soon. However, I just received a much better job offer that pays almost four times what the hospital position does. I'm currently in the onboarding process for the new job, but I feel guilty about having to back out of the hospital position, especially since the interviewer was really nice and I was supposed to help with a new unit they were opening. I formally accepted the hospital job through their portal and signed the necessary documents, but now I'm unsure about the consequences of quitting before I even start. I need to notify the hospital's HR and the director that I won't be able to continue with the onboarding process. I haven't received any official documentation from the new job yet, but they are working on it as my orientation is in just five days. I'm worried about burning bridges with the hospital and whether this will affect my future job prospects there, even though I haven't officially started. I just want to make sure I'm doing the right thing.

I recently completed two years as a Data Engineer at a Big 4 company and have transitioned into the GenAI field. Despite my efforts to switch jobs for better salary and work environment, I’ve been struggling to land new opportunities. I graduated with a degree in Computer Science and Engineering in 2024, scoring 8.1/10, and have completed multiple internships, including a summer role as a Software Engineer in an MNC. For the past year, I’ve been trying to find a new job but my resume seems to be overlooked. Even when I do get interviews, I often get ghosted after the second or third round. Recently, I cleared three rounds of interviews with another Big 4 firm, and although they requested my documents, I haven’t heard back in two months. I have skills in JavaScript, TypeScript, ReactJS, NodeJS, MongoDB, Python, Snowflake, Palantir, SQL, LangGraph, Vector DBs, and RAG, but I still feel like I have a long way to go in AI. I’m eager to learn and prove my capabilities, but I’m feeling very low and average compared to my peers who are advancing in their careers. I’m looking for advice on how to improve my situation and regain my confidence.

I recently applied for a position at Ulta and received a call from the operations manager three days ago to set up an interview. Unfortunately, I missed the call, but she left a voicemail asking me to call back if I was still interested. I returned the call later that day, but she had already left for the day. Since then, I've tried calling the store multiple times, but she hasn't been available. I'm feeling a bit stuck and unsure of what to do next. Should I consider going in person to the store to speak with her directly, or should I ask whoever answers the phone about her schedule? Any advice would be appreciated!

I recently found myself in a bit of a dilemma regarding job offers. Currently unemployed, I've been actively applying for positions and was thrilled to receive a job offer from Company A last Friday. However, I'm also in the final interview stage with Company B, which I would prefer to work for if I get the offer. I asked Company A for some time to consider their offer, giving me until Wednesday to decide. The challenge is that my interview with Company B isn't scheduled until at least Tuesday, leaving me in a tight spot. I'm contemplating whether to accept Company A's offer as a safety net while still pursuing the opportunity with Company B. I’m considering taking Company A's offer verbally but holding off on signing anything until after my interview with Company B. It feels like a risky but necessary move. I just hope it all works out!

I was laid off just three months before I could finally clear my debt. I work in the software field and, fortunately, I found another job after the layoff, but the journey has been quite challenging. When I first graduated, I landed a decent job in a tier 1 city, determined to make it on my own without relying on my parents. Initially, I struggled to find my footing and went through a phase of uncertainty, worried about being let go due to overhiring and restructuring within the company. I felt lost and like a failure, but I pushed myself to work hard, learning from those in senior positions. Eventually, I found my place in a team and started to excel, even taking on extra responsibilities when my manager left. I was promoted and recognized for my performance, which made me feel like I was finally fitting in. However, despite my hard work and dedication, I was unexpectedly laid off in December, even though I was one of the top performers in my region. This led me to accept a position at a smaller company with a more challenging role. Unfortunately, I faced personal challenges at home with my parents' health, which added to my anxiety and ultimately led me to leave that job. After spending two months back home, I returned to the city and began job hunting. I encountered several opportunities that seemed promising, but they fell through for reasons I still don't understand. It was a tough time, and I was worried about my growing credit card debt and personal loans. A friend suggested I explore job applications beyond LinkedIn, which led me to a new opportunity where I performed well in the interview and got hired. Now, I'm working hard to manage my responsibilities and slowly pay off my debts. I’m feeling a bit more stable, but I know the next few months will be tough as the market shifts. My goal is to clear all my debts before my birthday next year, and although I'm still feeling the weight of my situation, I finally feel like I'm getting back on track.

I recently started a new job that I was really excited about, as it required a master's degree and a lot of experience in administrative work. However, I quickly discovered that I was bait-and-switched. Instead of the role I was hired for, I’m now being forced to work in the community five days a week, which is something I specifically asked about during the interview process. I made it clear that I had been burned out by that type of work before and didn't want to do it again on a daily basis. Now, I'm basically functioning as a community support professional, completely removed from the job duties I was promised. My supervisor even expressed her regret that HR misled me about the position. It's incredibly frustrating to feel like employers can get away with this kind of behavior. I'm now faced with the reality of needing to find another job, likely at a lower pay, because I was not given honest information upfront. It feels like employers have all the power, and it’s disheartening to see how easily they can change the terms of employment after hiring someone. I’m planning to start my job search again, but it’s just so disappointing.

I am currently seeking seasonal work delivering for Amazon in the South Shore Massachusetts area, specifically around Quincy. I've been browsing online for opportunities, particularly with Delivery Service Partners (DSP), but haven't had any luck finding openings in my area. I'm looking to supplement my income during the holiday season, so if anyone has any leads or knows of any websites where I can find these job listings, I would greatly appreciate the help. I've also heard that FedEx, UPS, and USPS will be hiring holiday workers soon, so I may explore those options as well.

I recently graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, achieving high grades from 2020 to 2025. While studying, I worked part-time at two different jobs for about 10-12 months and took on full-time roles during semester breaks for 4-6 months, all related to my field. My supervisors have provided positive references praising my work ethic. However, I've been unemployed since mid-2024, as I focused on my studies during that time. I've also earned various certifications in CAD software and trades like welding, and I have a portfolio of personal projects. Unfortunately, after graduation, I experienced a deep depression and burnout, which halted my job applications. I'm starting to feel better and plan to begin applying for jobs again by mid-October. I'm concerned that potential employers will view my CV and think I lack commitment due to my short job tenures. In reality, my departures were due to contract endings, lack of growth opportunities, or insufficient work at the companies. I would appreciate any advice on how to address these concerns in my resume and during interviews.

Today, I found myself reflecting on my recent job application experience. I graduated recently and have been actively applying for entry-level marketing positions. I came across a job that seemed like a perfect fit for me, so I submitted my application online. However, I was quickly met with disappointment when I received a rejection email, which stated that the decision was made by an AI assistant that reviewed my application. This left me confused, especially since I felt I was a strong candidate based on my qualifications. Tomorrow, I will be in the city where the company is located, and I am considering taking a printed copy of my cover letter and resume to the HR director in person. I did some research and found out who the HR person is, so I know who to look for. I’m torn about whether this is a professional move or if it might backfire. I genuinely believe I have a unique skill set that aligns well with the job, but I also don’t want to risk burning any bridges. I’ve seen mixed opinions on this—some say it’s a bold move that could pay off, while others warn against showing up unannounced. I’m leaning towards going through with my plan, hoping to express my enthusiasm for the role directly. I’ll keep an open mind about the potential outcomes.

Today, I’m navigating a challenging situation as my 69-year-old mother is facing a layoff from her job at a large healthcare company in California after 21 years of service. The company is undergoing a department-wide restructuring, moving work offshore, and unfortunately, her position in customer support is being eliminated. She had planned to work until 2027 before retiring, so this unexpected layoff is particularly tough for her. The severance package offered includes 21 weeks of severance pay, which totals approximately $27,040 gross, along with a $5,000 retention bonus if she stays through the transition period, and $712 in outplacement assistance. The company will also continue contributing to her health insurance during this time. However, to receive this package, she must sign a general release of claims, which raises some concerns for us. I’m contemplating whether hiring an employment lawyer would be beneficial to negotiate a better severance deal. Given her age, long tenure, and the timing of her layoff so close to her planned retirement, I wonder if there’s room for negotiation. I’m considering asking for a package closer to 30-39 weeks of severance, which would significantly enhance her financial situation. Despite the circumstances, I’ve received feedback suggesting that her severance is relatively generous for a non-management role, and many people have advised that she might be better off accepting the offer rather than pursuing a potentially lengthy negotiation. It’s a lot to think about, and I want to ensure she makes the best decision for her future.

I recently found myself in a tough situation after accepting a counter offer from my current employer, where I work as a marketing manager. Shortly after my acceptance, the new company I was considering came back with an even more enticing counter offer. This new offer includes a life-changing sign-on bonus, a six-figure stock option, and an impressive annual RSU package. Overall, my total compensation would be 50% higher than what I currently earn. I genuinely believe I could be happy at either job, but the financial aspect makes it hard to ignore the new opportunity. I feel uncomfortable about potentially rejecting my current employer after I accepted their offer. I’m seeking advice on how to navigate this situation as I need to make a decision quickly.

I've been working as an admin assistant at a biofuels company for a while now, and I'm feeling pretty frustrated with the disorganization and constant turnover here. I started out as a file clerk, but I've taken on a lot more responsibilities, especially in accounting, where I've been processing vendor checks. I recently found out that I've significantly reduced the backlog of checks, which is great, but it feels like my contributions are going unnoticed. Currently, I'm making $21/hr, which seems low compared to the $25/hr listed on our recruiting site for similar positions. The catch is that they require a bachelor's degree, which I don't have, while my colleague does. I've been trying to get a title change or a raise, but my annual review has been pushed back multiple times due to management changes, including the firing of our office manager and the recent departure of our HR person. I really enjoy the work and the challenges it brings, but I want to be compensated fairly for the skills I'm developing. I feel like every time I try to address this, it gets deferred or ignored. Just last week, I was told I wouldn't need to process checks anymore because they hired someone new, but that person ended up not wanting the job. It's just chaotic, and I'm not sure how much longer I can stick it out without seeing any recognition or improvement in my situation. I'm considering looking for other positions, but it's tough to leave a job where I feel I can learn and grow.

I am currently drafting a letter of recommendation for myself from my former part-time employer, who has agreed to provide one. The aim is to highlight my skills as I search for a full-time position in a related field. I want to ensure the letter sounds genuine and persuasive, avoiding clichés or anything that feels AI-generated. The draft includes my employer's endorsement of my unique skill set and analytical abilities. It mentions my performance in various roles over two years and highlights my success in multiple projects. I want to emphasize my strong communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to engage in technical discussions effectively. I would appreciate any feedback on how to improve this draft, particularly in making it more impactful and authentic. Any suggestions on specific details to add or adjust would be extremely helpful!

I just found out that after 19 years with my company, I'm getting laid off on September 30th. The company was acquired, and the new parent company has decided to outsource my position. This is the first time I've ever been laid off, and honestly, I'm feeling a bit lost. When HR asked if I had any questions, I was so caught off guard that I only asked about severance, which I learned I won't be receiving. Now I'm trying to figure out what else I should ask HR before my last day. I don't have medical insurance through my job since I'm covered under my spouse's plan, but I'm unsure about my 401k and what steps I need to take regarding that. I've seen some comments suggesting I should focus on my budget and start looking for new opportunities immediately. It’s frustrating to think that after nearly two decades, I won’t receive any severance, especially since I was given a retention bonus to help train my replacement. That bonus only covers a small fraction of what I would have expected as a severance package. I’m feeling overwhelmed but know I need to gather all the necessary information and start planning my next steps.

I'm currently in a situation where I urgently need to find a new job. My current role just isn't fulfilling anymore, and I feel it's time for a change. I'm actively searching for new opportunities and would appreciate any advice or leads that could help me land a position soon.

I recently graduated with a BSc in Petroleum & Natural Gas Engineering from Istanbul Technical University and am currently pursuing an MSc in Industrial Engineering & Innovation Management in Vilnius. I've had some field exposure through an internship with Sperry Drilling in MWD/LWD and a supply chain internship at a refinery, along with customer operations experience in Lithuania. However, I'm facing a significant challenge. I’ve been applying for full-time drilling jobs across Norway, the UK, and Poland but haven't received any responses, and it feels like I'm being blackballed. With military service looming in Azerbaijan, I know I’ll be out of the industry for 12 to 18 months, which is a critical time when others will be gaining experience. By the time I return, I’ll be nearly 25 with a degree that will be three years old and an MSc that doesn’t align directly with drilling. I worry that recruiters will see the gap as a sign of inability to get hired. I’m looking for advice on a few things: 1. Does a gap in service really hurt chances in oilfield services, or do companies mainly care about passing aptitude tests? 2. Should I still aim for an MWD/LWD trainee position at 27, or is it better to pivot towards operations and supply chain roles in energy? 3. Has anyone successfully re-entered the industry after a long break? What strategies worked for you? I’m feeling overwhelmed and could use some perspective.