Team: Networking thread for the Unemployed

[Tarca]

Originally posted by: dmcowen674

Originally posted by: RaySun2Be
Sorry to hear you've been laid off Jatwell.

finally started a new job today part time

Great news, Tarca!

That is great news Tarca and Garry.

Tarca is that why you moved from Atlanta to the left coast?

No my wife's company moved us out here. She took on a new position for them. I would never have had a problem finding a job in Atlanta. I knew a lot of people there that new my work ethics. That is the problem with relocating. You have to start your network all over again. When I moved to Atlanta the same problem there. It took me a while to find work but after someone gave me a chance that is all it took and my network grew. I went from a maintenace engineer at Lake Lanier Islands Hilton to a telephony tech and then on to a computer tech. All through people that I met.

network network network that is all I can say. I am not an outgoing person but I try to talk to as many people as possible. You just never know.

PS that new job is working out well and the owner has made me full time.


Congrats Jamie!

Good luck Dan

 

[CADsortaGUY]

I just wanted to pop back in here to say that we (the company I work for) are still looking for Electrical/Process Engineers. -DesMoines, Iowa

Congrats to those that found jobs
- I'm sorry for you that are on the other end of the stick at the moment - cheer up though, things are bound to improve

CkG

 

[efun]

Dan,

I don't mean to pry but have you heard anything back on any of those jobs yet? I'm sure everyone here is hoping and praying for you.

E

 

[DanC]

Not "prying" at all... That's fine.

Well... on #1 - the guy is still in France picking up his foreign-exchange student daughter. He should be back next week, and maybe they'll make a decision then.

The one where I used to work - haven't heard back from her yet - but I'm optimistic.

The other one where I worked before that, called me for an interview yesterday - until I explained I'd already been interviewed. She's supposed to get back to me tomorrow.

We're not dead in the water by any means, but I wish they'd hurry UP. :Q

 

[TheCorm]

It's 11am....only 6 more hours and then I finish this temp job and get back to real work...hooraaaaayyy!!

Keep us posted Dan!

 

[DanC]

Well... just heard back from one of them.

One of those e-mails that starts with... "We recieved a number of qualified applicants..."
You know the rest.

I jetted off a response asking exactly what part of my 12 years experience, multiple certifications, and track record wasn't satisfactory.

She replies back with "there were just applicants with more experience"

Uh-huh... right.

If I find out a younger, less experienced person got the job - I'm filing an age discrimination suit. :|

 

[TheCorm]

That sucks, i'm sure one will come around though...Hey at least they let you know!

This time around in my job hunting....none, I repeat none of the jobs I have applied for have let me know if I haven't been successful....last time around the ones I weren't successful on all sent me a letter....not sure what is happening this time....the first company who actually got back to me and had me in for an interview......offered me a position!

Jamie

 

[RaySun2Be]

Bummer Dan.

She replies back with "there were just applicants with more experience"

Uh-huh... right.

yeah, right indeed.

If I find out a younger, less experienced person got the job - I'm filing an age discrimination suit. :|

I don't blame you there, I would too! :|

 

[DanC]

I'm just b1tching. Fact is, age discrimination is practically impossible to prove.

the putzes. :|
I get so dasmed mad about this crap! I know I'm not the only one either. (obviously - duh) but... I guess I needed to "vent."

 

[dmcowen674]

Originally posted by: DanC
Well... just heard back from one of them.

One of those e-mails that starts with... "We recieved a number of qualified applicants..."
You know the rest.

I jetted off a response asking exactly what part of my 12 years experience, multiple certifications, and track record wasn't satisfactory.

She replies back with "there were just applicants with more experience"

Uh-huh... right.

If I find out a younger, less experienced person got the job - I'm filing an age discrimination suit. :|

Sorry about the news Dan. I see we lost the sticky in here, will check to see if sticky dropped in Off Topic too.

She would've been safer saying they found someone with a better 'fit" to what they were looking for rather than experience especially if they go with someone fresh out of College.

 

[WayneS]

For anyone in or near Charlotte, NC we have these two openings on campus

Here is the link for instructions how to apply.

Department: College of Arts and Sciences, Dean's Office

Classification: Computing Consultant III

Grade: 74

PositionNumber: 7667

PositionDescription: (Serves as TST Web Systems Developer) Designs and implements websites and web applications for college-wide and departmental academic projects with an emphasis on projects supporting the Technology Solutions Team (TST). Provides development support for the creation of web-based solutions utilizing such technologies as Java Applets, Perl, PHP, SQL/MySQL, and other platforms as required. Leads projects requiring team solutions in the analysis, design, development, testing and implementation of the TST web development efforts. Works with team to implement systematic procedures for maintaining the accuracy of content and operating of academic web-based applications central to the academic mission of the college. Experience in a higher education environment preferred; demonstrated ability to design and development dynamic web-based applications and ability to author and modify Java Applets for web-based delivery. Knowledge of current web-based scripting platforms such as PHP and Perl; familiarity with ActionScript, ColdFusion, Flash Communications Server MX; technical customer service or remote-site support experience; evidence of ability to communicate effectively or a variety of campus clients and strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to integrate databases into web-based products and knowledge of database design, familiarity or expertise with scalable database technologies. Requires a bachelor?s degree with emphasis in communications, information systems, computer science or a related field and two and one-half years experience in information technology. Prefer at least two years experience in the design or development of web applications, web-based instructional materials, software, or multimedia products.

ClosingDate: 6/27/03

HiringRange: $36,003 - $45,000

OpenTo: Open To All Applicants

Department: College of Arts and Sciences, Dean's Office

Classification: Computing Consultant III

Grade: 74

PositionNumber: 7666

PositionDescription: (Serves as Fine Arts Consultant) Position will provide discipline-specific technical support to faculty in the department of Art, Dance & Theatre, and Music. This will include the administration and supervision of departmental computer labs (where necessary) in each department. Will assist in the planning and implementation of new technology installations, including new labs. Responsible for the provision of graphic design support for department and college-wide projects. Will provide training in graphic design principles and techniques to all Technology Solutions Team members, including students, with similar workshops for interested faculty and staff. Must have experience with supporting the Mac OS in a design-oriented environment, particularly in a large-lab setting. Must be familiar with Windows OS (through 2000). Must possess considerable design talent (portfolio review will be an important part of the interview process). Must have experience with basic design software, including Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator and Macromedia Flash MX/Dreamweaver MX/Fireworks MX. Additional desired skills include extensive knowledge of Flash MX ActionScripting, expertise in CSS-based design for multiple browser sets, experience with usability testing and design, and project management skills. Requires graduation from a four year college or university and two and one-half years of experience in information technology. Prefer four year degree and three years experience with web or graphic design; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

ClosingDate: 6/27/03

HiringRange: $36,003 - $45,000

OpenTo: Open To All Applicants

 

[RaySun2Be]

Bump up. I had applied on-line for a junior project manager position that was posted this week, and did a follow up call with the contact. He told me that they had 150+ applicants. I never knew there were that many project managers in Columbus. :Q

He also told me I hadn't made the first cut, because they thought I had only done IT operations in the last few years, even though app development was listed. They just don't take the time with 150+ applicants to read much details of the resumes (or cover letters, apparently). After I had informed him of my more recent appl. devl. work, he said they would take another look at it. Hopefully I can at least make the next round.

What that all really means to me is that the best way to land a position is to network, network, network. Build a contact list of people and stay in touch with them, so that you bypass HR and put yourself in a position to be noticed out of the herd. Off to make some calls now. (gotta practice what I preach )

 

[dmcowen674]

Originally posted by: RaySun2Be
Bump up. I had applied on-line for a junior project manager position that was posted this week, and did a follow up call with the contact. He told me that they had 150+ applicants. I never knew there were that many project managers in Columbus. :Q

He also told me I hadn't made the first cut, because they thought I had only done IT operations in the last few years, even though app development was listed. They just don't take the time with 150+ applicants to read much details of the resumes (or cover letters, apparently). After I had informed him of my more recent appl. devl. work, he said they would take another look at it. Hopefully I can at least make the next round.

What that all really means to me is that the best way to land a position is to network, network, network. Build a contact list of people and stay in touch with them, so that you bypass HR and put yourself in a position to be noticed out of the herd. Off to make some calls now. (gotta practice what I preach )

Best of luck.

 

[DanC]

Astonishingly, I heard back from the Chief Operating Officer on a position that Kranky gave me a heads-up on.

It's the VP of I.T. at a HUGE online auction house. He actually sent me a reply at 8:30 p.m., on the same day I sent the resume, and indicated he'd have the CIO contact me.

It's the result of using a REALLY "ballsy" cover letter. (yes Ray - THAT ONE) :Q

I'm never looking back now. Anyone who would like the text, PM me. It gets results.
At least I'm getting past the initial screening with it.

 

[Engineer]

Just a good luck bump for you all. It makes me really appreciate my job, no matter how many hours or stressful it may sometimes be.

Good Luck Dan (and the rest too) in getting the job!

 

[DanC]

Wowsa, part deux.

Spent an enjoyable hour with the CIO this morning on the phone. Looks like I made the first, and second cuts.

crossing my fingers... they're talking about flying me down for some face-time.

 

[Ken g6]

Well, I hate to tell ya, but there's yet another person competing for IT jobs now - me! I graduated from college in May, and I'm looking for entry-level programming (preferably), in the Colorado Springs Colorado area.

Also, *Bump!*

Plus: Hey Dan, any news?

 

[DanC]

Hey Ken - congratulations on that sheepskin!

Well... on to 'news' - haven't heard anything back from the latest one. I did have an exchange with the CIO about another issue, and he was friendly and engaging - so he's not 'avoiding' me.

There were 2 openings posted with a company I used to work for (before Compaq) that are right up my alley - and as luck would have it - one of the guys that used to work for me is in the I.T. department there. He's walking my resume to the director(s) - so there's another 'cross-your-fingers' deal.

This has GOT to break soon. I can smell it.

 

[RaySun2Be]

This has GOT to break soon. I can smell it.

I sure hope so. It either breaks soon, or I will be broke soon! :Q

Best of luck with the opportunities, Danc!

 

[RaySun2Be]

^^

Just applied for a part time (8 to 16 hours a week) PC tech contract to help with an office move. A whopping $15 per hour.

 

[DanC]

I can just picture the letter now...

Dear Mr. RaySun2Be, (yes I know his real name - this is just for the forum)

Thank you for your recent application for our dismal low-paying overworked grunt job.

While we were very impressed with your qualifications, we recieved many qualified candidates for the position of I.T.-gopher-grunt, and unfortunately yours was not among the candidates chosen for interviews.

We will however keep your application on file, and notify you of any future dismal underpaid and overworked I.T. positions while we continue to take advantage of the economic conditions and the glut of highly-skilled people.

As employers, we're now getting even with all of you geeks. Of course, since we can't live without you - we're going to be in deep Kim-chee when things turn around and you give us the finger. But until then... we're going to squeeze you.

Sincerely,

John H. Dorkenheimer
Moron-in-charge

















:|

 

[Smoke]

Hold on gang ... I see a bottom.

/actually I saw one several months ago/ :Q

It is an old saw that the markets proceed the economy by around six-months. Sometimes it's true.

Fingers crossed.

 

[RaySun2Be]

Originally posted by: DanC
I can just picture the letter now...

Dear Mr. RaySun2Be, (yes I know his real name - this is just for the forum)

Thank you for your recent application for our dismal low-paying overworked grunt job.

While we were very impressed with your qualifications, we recieved many qualified candidates for the position of I.T.-gopher-grunt, and unfortunately yours was not among the candidates chosen for interviews.

We will however keep your application on file, and notify you of any future dismal underpaid and overworked I.T. positions while we continue to take advantage of the economic conditions and the glut of highly-skilled people.

As employers, we're now getting even with all of you geeks. Of course, since we can't live without you - we're going to be in deep Kim-chee when things turn around and you give us the finger. But until then... we're going to squeeze you.

Sincerely,

John H. Dorkenheimer
Moron-in-charge

















:|

You ARE assuming of course that they have the professionalism to even respond with a letter or email. Most don't these days. You just never hear anything one way or another unless you follow up with them.

 

[BobTheWizard]

I'm working...


12 bucks an hour as a Help Desk Operator at a local Indian Casino, but hey.. pays the bills, and a great foot in the door.


6 1/2 months off work is more than enough....

 

[JSSheridan]

I'll throw my hat into the thread.

I graduated in May from the University of Tennessee with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. I am looking for an good entry-level engineering position, though I'm most prepared for the electric power industry. I have passed the Engineering Fundamentals exam, and I am willing to relocate. Thanks for any of your help. Good luck to you all. Peace.