Planning

I started a new role at a company in early June, but it quickly became clear that the environment was not right for me. I have a history of mental health issues, including major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety, and the toxicity of the workplace caused my mental health to deteriorate rapidly. On August 17, I took medical leave and went on short-term disability, which was a lifesaver as it provided some income while I sought treatment. My psychiatrist helped me get back on medication, which has been beneficial. Knowing I wouldn't return to that job, I immediately began applying for new positions. Fortunately, I recently secured a role at a company that seems like a much better fit. Now, I’m faced with a dilemma regarding my resume. I worked at the previous company for about four months, from June to September, and I’m unsure whether to include that short tenure or leave a gap. I have never had gaps in my employment since I started working in 2008, so this is a new situation for me. If I do leave a gap, how would I explain it in the future? Would saying I took a sabbatical be acceptable? Also, will that job appear on background checks?

I recently applied for a full-time 1099 job that would pay me 2.5 times my current salary at the non-profit where I work. I really enjoy my role supporting mothers and their children, but with rising living costs, my current salary isn't cutting it. I've been juggling a part-time job to help pay off my debt and save for a house. I received an email from a company I applied to a month ago, and they want to schedule an interview. The company is relatively new, established in 2022, and has some positive reviews, but I'm cautious about the 1099 status. I know there are risks involved, like lack of job security and benefits, which I currently have at my non-profit job. I'm seeking advice on whether I should take this opportunity if offered, considering the significant pay increase but also the potential downsides of a 1099 position in today's economy. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

I recently experienced a layoff and have been reaching out to my network on LinkedIn for referrals. I appreciate the support I've received from some people, but I've noticed a trend where many seem dismissive or even snobby when it comes to providing referrals. It feels quite humiliating to ask for help in this way. To streamline my requests, I usually prepare a message template that includes three sections: the job opening I'm interested in, a note on why I believe the person I'm asking is qualified to provide a referral, and a brief introduction about my work experience. I also include the job ID and link to make it easier for them to find the position. Despite my efforts to make it convenient for them, I often feel like I'm being treated as if I'm beneath them, as if I'm asking them to do something demeaning. I really wish people would reflect on their behavior when it comes to referrals on LinkedIn. It’s frustrating to feel this way when all I'm seeking is a little support in my job search.

I’m currently working in an IT job that I find unfulfilling, and I’m eager to transition into a creative role where I can truly express my artistic flair. I have a passion for creativity and am obsessed with the idea of working in a field that allows me to utilize my talents, even though I don’t have a relevant degree or extensive experience. I’m specifically looking for opportunities at companies like Flent that value creativity over formal qualifications and offer good compensation to support living in a metropolitan area. I have some personal writings and edits that showcase my skills, but I know I need to demonstrate my creative abilities in a way that resonates with potential employers. I’m open to contractor roles as well, as I just want the chance to let my talent bloom. I’m reaching out for any advice or leads on how to land my dream job in a creative field. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Today, I received an email from the executive assistant to the SVP regarding an onboarding initiative that my learning and development team is involved with. While some of the questions posed seem relevant to improving the onboarding experience, others have raised some concerns for me. Specifically, they asked about how our team creates value for clients and stakeholders, our primary purpose, and how we utilize AI. These types of questions often signal a shift in focus, and I can't help but feel uneasy about it. I've been passively looking for new job opportunities, but I've been hesitant to accept offers due to lower pay and benefits. Now, I'm starting to wonder if I should reconsider my options and be less picky, especially given the current climate in the company. I’ve heard similar stories from colleagues in the industry about how such inquiries can precede layoffs, and it’s making me anxious about my position.

I recently faced a troubling situation with my former employer in Maryland. After my maternity leave, I was verbally assured that I could return to my position, as my job didn't offer FMLA. However, just a week before I was set to go back, I was informed that I was no longer needed. To make matters worse, my employer is now telling the unemployment office that I was fired on the day I took my maternity leave, which is completely untrue. I'm feeling incredibly frustrated and betrayed, especially since I just had a baby and am in desperate need of financial support. I'm considering reaching out to an attorney to explore my options, as I believe they are actively lying to prevent me from receiving the benefits I deserve.

I joined an early-stage B2B AI startup about six months ago after spending four years at a large, stable firm. I made the switch because I wanted to be closer to the technology and felt the impact of AI on my industry. However, I've recently learned that our startup has approximately six months of runway left, and while they're looking to raise funds, the financials haven't been strong. I suspect an acquisition might be more likely than a successful funding round. Given this uncertainty, I've started applying to other roles. I'm grappling with the decision of when to accept an offer if I receive one. Should I prioritize stability and take the first reasonable offer, even if it's at another startup with its own risks? Or should I hold out for a more promising opportunity, knowing that waiting too long could leave me in a precarious position as our runway shortens? I genuinely enjoy my current job, but I also worry about the potential for job hunting from a place of desperation if things don't improve. I'm seeking advice on how to navigate the next few months and make the best decision for my career.

I recently came across a job opportunity that seemed too good to be true, and I couldn't help but question its legitimacy. The company appears to be real, but the pay they offered raised some red flags for me. After searching for a job for a long time, I really don't want to miss out on a genuine opportunity, but I also want to avoid falling for a scam. I noticed some oddities during the interview process, such as the scheduled time being from 8 am to 5 pm, which seemed unusual. Additionally, they mentioned needing a Microsoft Teams account to join the meeting, which I know is not necessary if you have the meeting link. I did some research and found advice suggesting to verify the company online, check LinkedIn, and avoid any situation where they ask for upfront payments. A few comments from others who received similar emails confirmed my suspicions, as they felt something was off too. One commenter pointed out that a legitimate job would already know what role I was interviewing for by that stage, which made me think twice about the whole situation. I'm still weighing my options, but I wanted to document this experience as a cautionary tale.

I recently lost my job as a data scientist after a short tenure of about six months at a lesser-known company. I made the switch earlier this year, hoping for a better fit, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a poor match. Despite achieving some accomplishments, I didn't pass probation, and the role felt more like an analyst position rather than the data science work I was aiming for. The company culture was also quite toxic, which contributed to my decision to move on. Surprisingly, I'm not feeling too down about this situation. The job was leading me to burnout, and I now have the opportunity to focus on what I truly want, which is transitioning into AI engineering. I appreciate having this extra time to upskill in AI and consider potential side hustles. Thankfully, my savings provide me with a comfortable runway for the next few years, so I'm not overly concerned about immediate income stability. However, I do want to minimize any gaps on my resume and ensure that this time is productive. I'm considering reaching out to recruiting agencies for contract jobs, as I've never done this before. My goal is to find a role that allows me to work less than 40 hours a week while engaging in meaningful projects. Any advice on how to navigate this transition would be greatly appreciated!

My wife was laid off from her job in Illinois back in April, but for some reason, she didn't file for unemployment benefits at that time. Now, 5-6 months later, she's reconsidering and wants to know if she can still file. We're both worried that she might have missed her window to apply. I've heard mixed opinions on this, with some saying she should definitely file regardless of the delay, while others warn that waiting too long could reduce her benefits. I'm really hoping we can get this sorted out and that she can still receive the support she's eligible for.

I applied to several jobs about three weeks ago, and I've noticed that the positions are still open. I reached out to a manager and a director I know for a referral for one of the roles. For another position, I had an informational chat with the team manager, which went well. Now, I'm looking for the best way to follow up on these applications to express my continued interest and persistence. Any tips on how to approach this would be greatly appreciated!

I work at a manufacturing company where I’ve been facing a tough situation. Over the past six months, 6 out of 10 people on my team have left, and now the remaining members, including myself, are struggling to keep up with the workload. I’ve been tasked with training all the new hires, which is a significant burden because it takes about 12 months for them to become fully self-sufficient. While I don’t mind training people, having to train four new employees at once has drastically increased my responsibilities. On top of that, our production demands have doubled, which means the workload has skyrocketed. I reached out to my manager for help back in April, expressing that I was overwhelmed, but the response was always the same: "just do what you can." Now, in September, I’m still dealing with the aftermath of this staffing crisis. Training is finally tapering off, but I’m left with a mountain of overdue tasks that are piling up on my desk, and it’s becoming soul-crushing. I’ve been actively searching for a new job for months, but the process has been disheartening. I’ve gone through several interviews and on-site meetings, only to receive rejections or, in some cases, no feedback at all. It feels like I’m falling deeper into despair with each passing day.

I’m feeling a bit anxious about reaching out to my former supervisor for a reference as I prepare to apply for a new job. It’s been a few months since I left, and even though I believe she liked my work and would be happy to help, I’m nervous about contacting her after this time. I’ve drafted a message saying, "Hey, long time no talk. How's everything been going over there?" but I just can’t bring myself to send it. I know I need her as a reference, and I’m trying to convince myself that it’s not a big deal. I’ve read some advice suggesting I could just ask directly without needing to catch up first, which makes sense. I’m hoping that by sharing this, I can sort through my feelings and gain some clarity. Any thoughts?

I was laid off in July and have been facing significant issues with my ex-employer. They failed to complete the monetary verification for my unemployment insurance, which has left me unable to collect any benefits for the past two months. This has been incredibly frustrating, especially since I’ve been trying to get them to confirm my wages and work history. To make matters worse, I discovered today that my COBRA health insurance coverage was never activated because my ex-employer also neglected to file the necessary paperwork with the health insurance provider. Despite paying over $1,000 for this coverage, I found out that I don’t actually have any access to it. This is particularly concerning since I have a health condition that requires ongoing management. Now, I’m two months behind on unemployment payments and out over $1,000 for health coverage that I can’t use. I have documented all my interactions with the state, my insurance company, and my ex-employer, so I have proof of my payments and agreements. I’m reaching out to see if anyone has advice on how to navigate this situation. I’m considering contacting an attorney for help, so if anyone has recommendations, I’d appreciate it.

Today, I found myself reflecting on my current situation as a 38-year-old stay-at-home mom. With my partner leaving, I’m feeling lost and uncertain about my future. I’ve spent my entire adult life at home, and my only work experience has been running an in-home bakery for five years, which has since closed down. The reality of the job market is daunting; bakers in my area are earning around $12 per hour, which isn’t enough to support myself. I also struggle with fibromyalgia, making manual labor difficult, and my psych medications leave me feeling foggy, impacting my short-term memory. I’m on disability for bipolar disorder, but I know that won't cover my living expenses. I’m considering my options and trying to figure out what I can do next. I’ve received some advice about exploring different medications, looking into part-time retail work, or even driving for services like DoorDash or Uber. I’m also thinking about childcare roles, as I've heard that many parents return to work once their kids are older. It’s a tough time, and I’m trying to stay hopeful while navigating these challenges.

I've been feeling really frustrated with my job situation lately. Currently, I'm working a job that I got hired for almost immediately, which honestly reflects how desperate the place is for employees. I'm stuck working 10 to 13 hour days, five days a week, and I'm only making under $18 an hour. It's exhausting and unfulfilling. I've been searching for a new job for the past few months, but I haven't had much luck. I had an interview today, and I don't think it went well at all. The whole experience felt incredibly awkward; I felt like an alien trying to fit in and failing miserably. I know I can do the job, but I just can't seem to convince anyone of that. I've read some advice about practicing for interviews, and I think I need to start doing that. I also wonder if there are companies out there that focus more on skills rather than just trying to gauge if I'll fit in socially. It seems like a lot of interviews are more about personality and whether they think they can get along with you rather than your actual skills. It's disheartening, especially since I have autism, which makes the social aspects of interviews even more challenging for me. I just want to find a decent job where I can feel valued and not have to struggle so much just to be seen as capable.

I've been on the hunt for a work-from-home (WFH) job lately, primarily because I'm taking care of my child. It's been tough, especially since I've been unemployed for the past seven years while looking after a relative's kid. Now that they're in school, I thought it would be easier to find a job, but it hasn't been. My experience is limited to being a front desk assistant, where I mainly answered phone calls. I see so many people online claiming that you can easily land a WFH job without a degree or experience, and it gives me hope, but I'm starting to feel skeptical. My daily routine involves getting my child ready for school, picking them up, helping with homework, and getting them ready for bed. On top of that, my family works demanding hours, typically from 9 to 5 with overtime, which makes it even harder to find a flexible job that fits my schedule. I'm just trying to figure out how to make this work.

I'm coming to terms with the fact that it's time for me to move on from my job. I'm feeling really down about it and just need to vent. I have ADHD and had to stop my medication for a while due to medical reasons, which affected my performance at work. I've been trying to get accommodations but faced significant pushback from my employer. Yesterday, I had a grievance meeting with my union rep, HR, and my manager. It was a mixed bag. They are finally agreeing to some accommodations, which is a relief, but they are refusing to clear my record of past disciplinary incidents. I have accumulated quite a few, and it feels like I'm walking on thin ice—one more mistake and I could be out of a job. I'm still disputing the past incidents and need to gather more documentation before we meet again, but I'm starting to question if it's worth the effort. After work, I updated my resume and sent out a couple of applications, but it felt bittersweet. I really loved this job and my coworkers; I thought I had found my forever job. I know those are rare these days, but I genuinely believed I had found a great fit. Now, I'm not sure I can find anything comparable, but I feel like I have no choice but to try. I don't know if 'grief' is the right term, but it's how I feel. After eight years of dedicated work, I feel hurt and angry that it seems to mean nothing now. Even if I manage to resolve the issues, I don't know if I can move past how I've been treated. I've been crying and losing sleep over this, and I'm just exhausted.

I was recently laid off from my position as an Agile Project Manager and Senior Scrum Master at a large enterprise tech company in the financial data and media industry, where I worked for over 4 years. Now, at 33 years old and based in Hyderabad, India, I'm diving into the job market for the first time in a while and seeking advice on my job search strategy. With over 10 years of experience in Agile delivery, Scrum Mastery, and Program Management, I've led initiatives like quarterly release planning and program governance reporting to VP-level stakeholders. I also managed RAID/KRI risk tracking and facilitated the migration to Azure DevOps across multiple teams. My background includes building Power BI dashboards for sprint hygiene and defect tracking, along with previous roles as a Business Analyst and Scrum Master in the banking sector, focusing on digital banking features and ERP implementation. I'm a certified Scrum Master (PSM I) and am open to remote or hybrid roles, whether they are based in India or internationally. I'm specifically looking for guidance on my resume, job search strategies, and any potential openings for Agile Project Manager, Program Manager, or Scrum Master roles. If anyone is hiring or can refer me within their company, I would greatly appreciate it. I'm happy to share my resume via direct message or answer any questions about my experience. Thank you for your support during this transition.

I’m 21 years old and recently found myself in a bit of a job-hopping situation that’s got me feeling insecure. I got engaged a few months ago and moved out of my parents’ house last year, relocating to a new state. I was really interested in police work, so I became a 911 dispatcher. However, after just 4 months, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me at all. I left without another job lined up and took a position in senior caregiving. I worked there for 6 months, but the hours were brutal—60 hours a week with back-to-back overnights. It left me sleep-deprived and struggling to take care of myself. Then I decided to switch gears and pursue a role as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) after hearing good things about it from my fiancé’s friend. I interviewed and was promised stable hours and benefits, but after 3 months, I found myself barely making ends meet on $1,800 a month. They kept me at 20-30 hours a week, which just wasn’t sustainable. So, I went back to my old caregiving job. Now, I’m worried about how my family will perceive my job changes. They’ve already asked about my current work, and I feel like I’m going to be judged for not sticking with ABA. I know I’ll be moving again in 4 months for my fiancé’s school, so this caregiving job might be temporary, but I still feel insecure about having three jobs in one year. Is it normal to go through this at my age? Any advice would be appreciated.