The Search is Over

Today, I have a job.

Before I head to the Cinco de Mayo party we're invited to, I will have signed and sent the necessary paperwork to seal the deal.

To say I have a better appreciation for those of you who have lost a job, fear losing a job, or have to deal with spouses, family, and friends who have lost a job, . . . well, is really an understatement.

You can't begin to explain that sick feeling when you're told. The way you sit in your office trying not to cry and do your work like nothing is wrong. The way you can't find the words to tell people you work with every day. The way you find the words to tell the few family members who'll understand, and still can't get them out without crying. They way that no matter how many times you hear "this is an economic decision and has nothing to do with your qualifications or ability" . . . and yet you still can't help but wonder.

I was fortunate. It wasn't a money issue for our family, and I know there are far more people for whom this news is beyond humiliating and demotivating . . . its financially devastating. I have a great husband who has the ability to support our family very well.

It was about personal pride. Accomplishment. 16+ years of working my ass off to get the next big thing. Not only the financial reward, but the challenge too.

In one conversation, it disappeared.

I've spent the last few weeks writing, and re-writing, and re-writing my resume. Tweaking it each time I sent it. Had interviews and conversations. Talked myself silly. Got at least one "we're considering candidates who's qualifications more closely match the client's profile" without any explanation of why I don't match. Its been a full time second job.

For weeks, nothing. Then last Friday started the ball rolling down the hill. I had an interview here in Seattle with an interesting company that would have been a great opportunity. They liked me. Called me back for a second interview immediately. At the same time, another company called and wanted to talk with me. I'd had an interview almost a month ago, and gone back for a second interview with another company, so I sent an email to ask how the process was going.

By Monday, I had a phone interview with one company, a second in person interview with another company, and a request for references from the company I originally interviewed with in California. By Tuesday, I had a verbal offer, with others waiting in the wings.

Yesterday, the compensation package was delivered to support the verbal offer.

And it was good.

And between the interview and Friday, they had also elevated the position to Vice-President level.

Today, after I finish this post, I'll be accepting the offer. It will require a move to California. But the family is behind me, and it will be the beginning of the next great thing. I mean, how can it be bad? It's a VP position with a Dow Jones company, using the skills I have gained over the last 16 years and interacting with executives who run one of the biggest companies in the WORLD.

A month and a half ago I was sad, frustrated, uncertain, and months from a layoff.

Today, I'm looking forward to a new career, with the pay, the title, and all the challenges that will keep me interested. And a severance package from my current employer to smooth the way.

All is a little brighter in the world, today.

Good luck to the rest of you still searching . . .

Today, I have a job.

Respectfully submitted,

The Wife