The Terrifying Reality of Long-Term Unemployment

[wyldwolf]

23. I proved this for myself

I was given a structured layoff back in October and for the first 3.5 months, I couldn't get anyone interested. Dozens of resumes were sent daily and the phone didn't ring. I swear, a job description could have been tailor made for me but I wouldn't get any responses from my resume.

I finally changed my approach. I'd always freelanced. So I gave my freelancing an official company name, gave myself a fancy title, and put it down as a job that began right after my old one ended. Suddenly, with no gap in employment, my phone started ringing and I finally landed a job right past the 5 month mark.

I had mixed emotions about doing that. I wasn't sure how honest it was. But if employers want to play hardball with their discriminatory practices than I'm perfectly willing to do what it takes to win in their arena.