Planning

I recently left my job at a pizzeria where I had been working for about a month. From the very beginning, the working conditions were terrible, with issues like cross-contamination and poor scheduling. To make matters worse, they consistently withheld my pay. Despite my attempts to get paid, both the manager and owner kept dodging my requests. I reached a breaking point and researched my rights under Alberta Employment Standards, which stated that I could resign immediately since I had been there for less than 90 days. I made the tough decision to call and quit, but my boss reacted angrily and threatened to withhold my three weeks of pay. Now, he’s not responding to me at all, and I’m feeling lost about what to do next.

I’m feeling really lost in this economy right now. I graduated high school but don’t have a college degree, and most of my work experience has been in serving tables. Despite putting in a lot of effort, I’m just barely making ends meet. With rent, groceries, and bills constantly rising, it feels impossible to get ahead. I’m at a point where I’m open to doing just about anything legal for a job. I’m not looking for a dream career or to get rich; I just want something that allows me to pay my rent, cover basic necessities, and reduce my daily stress. I’m reaching out to see what others without degrees are doing for work. What fields are hiring and actually paying enough to survive? I’m genuinely looking for ideas because I feel completely stuck. I’ve heard that trade jobs like plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC are in high demand and pay well, plus many companies offer training on the job. I switched from restaurant work a few years ago, and the pay difference has been significant, along with benefits. I also know people who have found success in commercial drone piloting and have moved up in companies like FedEx. If anyone has suggestions or insights, I’d really appreciate it!

I recently accepted a fully remote role with a salary of $65k and submitted my resignation at my current job, where I'm making $55k plus incentives. However, during a meeting, my current employer countered the offer, expressing a desire to match it and asking what it would take for me to stay. They even agreed to let me work fully remote, which was one of my main reasons for considering leaving. Now, I'm in a bit of a dilemma. I had already planned my exit, including arrangements for my car, which my dad is taking this weekend. I'm feeling confused about whether to ask for the same $65k or push for $70k, considering I was ready to leave for a reason. The role still has some of the same issues that prompted my job search, but with this new money on the table, I'm questioning everything. I'm seeking advice on what number to throw out there and how to navigate this counteroffer situation.

I recently started a new job at a retail store while another location is being built. After three weeks of hard work and training, I had my second official shift today. I’ve been putting in extra effort, showing up early, and getting along with everyone, or so I thought. I even mastered my role quickly, which usually takes others months. Today, I accepted a shift pickup from a colleague, confirmed it with my manager, and thought everything was fine. However, my co-workers were not pulling their weight and ended up pushing the workload of three stations onto me while they gossiped. I calmly addressed the situation, but it seems that didn’t sit well with them. When my manager arrived, I explained what happened, and she acknowledged my reliability. However, after my shift, I found out my shift pickup was reversed and given to one of the girls I had called out. My manager justified it by saying that the other employee was assigned to the store and took priority. I can’t shake the feeling that this is more about favoritism or a punishment for standing up for myself, especially since my boss and the other employees are friends outside of work. I’m considering looking for another job because I feel unfairly treated and it’s becoming unbearable.

I’m currently working at a sneaker shop in the mall where I manage online orders on eBay. I’m 17 and earn $10 an hour after taxes, plus a 2% commission on sales. We make about $500 a week on eBay, but the process is pretty disorganized. I often have to ask my boss for shoe prices and whether to counter offers, which can be tiring. I feel like I’m doing a lot for the pay I receive, and I’m concerned that I won’t get extra compensation when I take over managing the online store after July. I also resell sneakers on the side to make ends meet, but finding another job has been tough. I’m starting to wonder if I’m underpaid or just complaining.

I am currently seeking a remote job that fits my schedule as a pharmacist, available most mornings until around 3 pm EST. I am looking for something flexible that I can do from home, and while it doesn't need to pay exceptionally well, I wouldn't mind if it did. I have previously tried roles in data annotation and AI training with companies like Mercor and OutlierAI, but unfortunately, I have not had any success. My ideal job would meet the following criteria: it should be reliable and not a scam, allow me to work from my computer without any costs like packaging or shipping, and I prefer not to be on camera or videotaping myself (though I'm fine with meetings). Flexibility is key, as I can only work before 2:30 pm EST. I am open to positions in pharmacy or healthcare, but I'm also proficient with Microsoft Office and computer tasks, so I can adapt to various roles. I would appreciate an easy application process, ideally with a high chance of acceptance. Additionally, I have experience as a tutor and would be interested in part-time tutoring again, but my previous attempts with platforms like Varsity Tutors and Wyzant didn't yield any students. I am willing to take on students if I can find a more reliable way to get back into tutoring. If anyone has suggestions or questions, I would greatly appreciate your input!

I'm currently navigating a tricky job situation after leaving Company A for Company B. Unfortunately, I was let go from Company B due to not meeting performance quotas. After a month of job searching with little luck, I reached out to Company A to see if I could return, as I had left on good terms. I applied but haven't heard back yet. In the meantime, I received a job offer for an assistant teacher position. The pay is lower than what I made at my previous jobs, and it's not the role I wanted since that position has already been filled. I have just two days to decide whether to accept this offer. I'm concerned that declining it could jeopardize my unemployment benefits, especially after the stress of job searching and interviews. Additionally, I have an interview lined up tomorrow for an entry-level stocking position. Given my experience with a competitor, I feel confident about receiving an offer from them as well. However, I discovered that this position is seasonal and lacks benefits for the first 2 to 6 months. I'm also wary of canceling or ghosting the interview because that could affect my benefits, especially since I provided my SSN during the application process. I'm torn about whether to accept the teaching position for now while I wait to hear back from my old company. I realize I've put myself in a complicated situation, especially with Company B contesting my unemployment claim. I'm just trying to figure out the best course of action as time is running out.

In the late 1990s, I was working as a technician for a large computer manufacturer. The atmosphere was tense, with constant whispers about a potential hostile takeover. At the time, I didn't fully grasp what that meant, but I could sense the unease in the office. My boss called me into his office one day and tried to reassure me, saying, "I want to assure you that you have a solid future with the company. We just don't know what that future is." That moment was a wake-up call for me. I realized that if even my boss was uncertain about the company's future, it was time to make a move. I had been considering relocating to another state, and that conversation pushed me to finally take action. I secured a new job in the state I wanted to move to, and just two months later, the company announced layoffs, letting go of everyone in my department. It was shocking to see so many talented engineers suddenly jobless, and it confirmed my decision to leave when I did.

I got laid off in March and it was a tough experience. Initially, I was in a panic mode, applying manually to about three jobs a day, which took a toll on my mental state. By week two, I discovered Tsenta and set it up to automate my applications. This was a game changer for me. From weeks three to four, I went through three recruiter screens and recalibrated my job preferences based on the feedback I received. In week five, I had two more screens and my first technical interview. Week six brought another technical interview, and I started to feel like something real was happening. By week seven, I was in the final round at a Series C company that I genuinely liked, but then week eight hit, and I experienced a lot of silence, which was nerve-wracking. Finally, in week nine, I received an offer! I sent out roughly 220 applications, went through nine recruiter screens, and ended up with one offer, which I accepted. Using Tsenta not only helped me streamline the application process but also freed up my mental space. I wasn't spending four hours a day filling out forms, which allowed me to focus my energy on the interviews that really mattered.

I recently started tracking severance packages after hearing about various layoffs in the tech industry. According to the data I've gathered from 59 severance reports since launching my project, the median severance package is currently 12 weeks of pay. Interestingly, only 3% of those who received severance negotiated for better terms. In terms of location, 46% of the reports are from US-based employees, with an even split between remote and onsite work. Looking at seniority levels, 2% were VP, 33% senior, 5% mid-level, and 2% entry-level. The roles represented include 27% software engineers, 7% designers, and 5% project managers. I'm eager to provide more insights, so if anyone has specific breakdowns or information they would like to see, please let me know!

I recently had an interview scheduled for a marketing position at a tech startup. However, after some reflection on the company culture and values, I'm considering withdrawing my application. I feel that the role might not align with my long-term career goals, and I want to ensure that I pursue opportunities that truly resonate with me. I'm in the process of drafting an email to inform the hiring manager of my decision. It's a tough choice, but I believe it's important to trust my instincts.

I recently completed my master's degree in clinical psychology in 2024 and initially focused on preparing for entrance and competitive exams. Unfortunately, I haven't had much success with that route. I've shifted my attention to job applications, primarily targeting roles in HR. Despite my efforts and the numerous applications I've submitted, I haven't received responses from most employers. I'm feeling a bit lost and would appreciate any guidance or advice on how to improve my job search.

I recently received a full-time offer as an Engineer at the largest bank in my country, which has over 10,000 employees. I'm currently an international student and expected to graduate in June 2026. However, there's a chance I might fail a subject, which would push my graduation to December 2026 as I would need to retake the exam. The hiring manager verbally offered me the position in early June and mentioned that the earliest I could start would be in August, after their vacation in July. When I inquired about the implications of potentially not graduating on time, she said she would need to check with HR for clarity. I'm contemplating whether to delay my start date until December or request a part-time position from August to December, transitioning to full-time afterward. Given that my study visa restricts me from working full-time before graduation, I’m unsure how to navigate this situation. I would appreciate any advice from those who have faced similar challenges.

I was laid off last week from my IT role due to a departmental restructure aimed at cost savings. This is the first time I've experienced a layoff in my career, and I'm still processing the decision to eliminate my position. I have to remind myself that this isn't a reflection of my skills or accomplishments. As a mid-50s professional with extensive experience in IT, I'm not particularly excited about starting a job search. However, I hope that my age, which I see as wisdom, along with my broad IT background, will help me stand out during interviews. I noticed that the job market appears to be improving based on recent job numbers, so I'm optimistic that this will be a short break before I find my next role. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has had success in their application or interview process and what made a difference for them. I'm wishing everyone else in the job search process the best of luck. The fear of the unknown is definitely keeping me awake at night.

I recently gave my notice at my job in the food industry, where I've been working primarily in controlled environments like retreat centers and a senior center. With 8 years of cooking experience and 14 years in kitchens overall, I found myself increasingly stressed due to a moody boss and being part of an understaffed team. Everyone was just trying to survive their shifts. The only upside was the pay, which was decent. Now, I'm about four days into my two-week notice after accepting a Food Prep Cook position at a high-end restaurant. The pay is slightly lower than my current $23 per hour, but the better hours and improved work-life balance are worth it to me, especially since I have a family and I’m also a gigging musician. I initially found the job on Indeed, which advertised a pay range of $20-24 per hour. After I applied, the General Manager reached out, impressed with my experience, and set up an interview with the Sous Chef. The interview was brief but friendly, and I expressed my desire for a job that fit my work-life balance better. I mentioned my current pay rate, and she suggested they could offer me $21-22 per hour. After a short conversation, I was offered the job, and I immediately gave notice at my current position once I received the onboarding link. However, I haven't received a formal written job offer—everything has been done through an app. I reached out to the Head Chef to confirm my start date and salary, but he didn't respond and later told me I would start at $18 per hour, like all new hires, despite my extensive experience. They mentioned that I could renegotiate after 90 days, but I feel misled and blindsided by this situation. Currently, I have completed all onboarding processes and am likely scheduled for training next week, but without a formal commitment from them, I feel it’s wise to keep my options open and continue searching for other opportunities.

I recently found myself contemplating a new job opportunity while still employed at a federal agency. I'm currently in a well-paying position that I enjoy, but the long commute and the desire for more engaging work have prompted me to explore other options. I came across a role at a nonprofit organization that piqued my interest. Interestingly, I had interviewed with them a few years ago for a different position but wasn't selected, which I hold no grudges about. To gauge the situation, I reached out to a contact I have within the organization, someone fairly high up, to inquire about the salary range for the new position. I made it clear that I am not willing to accept a significant pay cut. My contact was helpful and created a group text with the two individuals overseeing the hiring process. However, the response I received was quite terse, simply instructing me to send in my resume and cover letter. While I understand that they don’t owe me anything, I was hoping for a more professional interaction. Now, I'm at a crossroads on how to proceed. I could send my resume as requested, express my disinterest politely, or ask further questions. Given my background as a retired law enforcement officer who transitioned to a STEM career, I have experience in the workforce, but this situation is making me reconsider how to navigate the job application process. Any advice on how to move forward would be greatly appreciated.

After struggling for six months with my job search, I decided to automate the entire process to improve my efficiency and response rates. Initially, I was manually tracking applications using spreadsheets, which involved a lot of copy-pasting and refreshing job boards daily. It was exhausting, and I often found myself dropping the ball on follow-ups. To tackle this, I built an automated job search system using Claude Cowork, Google Sheets, and App Scripts. The results have been remarkable! My response rates have doubled from around 5% to between 12-15%. Here's how I did it: 1. **Automated job discovery:** I created a script that pulls new job listings that match my criteria directly into a Google Sheet. Now, instead of hunting for jobs every day, I just review this list once. 2. **Automated follow-ups:** For every application I submit, a follow-up email is drafted automatically 48 hours later. I can review, edit, and send it in just 2-3 minutes, compared to the 15 minutes it used to take. 3. **Tab queue:** Each morning, the roles I’ve queued up open automatically in Chrome, allowing me to work through them efficiently. Overall, this system has reduced my mental overhead significantly and made my job search much more consistent. While I still experience a lot of silence, I feel more in control and productive. If anyone is interested in the details or has questions about my setup, feel free to ask!

I'm currently on the job hunt for a work-from-home position, and I'm finding it quite challenging. I've been applying to various roles but haven't had much luck so far. I'm looking for advice on how to improve my chances of landing a remote job. Any tips on where to look, how to tailor my resume, or networking strategies would be greatly appreciated!

I recently found myself in an interesting situation regarding a job opportunity that I wasn't actively pursuing. I had been networking on LinkedIn, expressing my interest in moving to France in about three years. I connected with a hiring manager at a company I admire, whom I'll refer to as Person A. I made it clear that I was primarily looking to gather information and make connections rather than apply for a job immediately. However, I also connected with another engineer, Person B, at the same company. To my surprise, Person B pushed my application forward without me formally applying, and now I've received an invitation to interview with Person A. The catch is that I'm currently settled in my new job, and my family isn't quite ready to move yet. While the company offers great relocation resources, I'm torn about how to approach this opportunity. I wonder if I should still go through with the interview, even though I'm not looking for a job right now. Some advice I received suggests being upfront about my situation during the interview. I could mention my timeline and see if they might be open to remote work for a year or a delayed start. Worst case, I get some valuable interview practice and keep the connection warm for when I'm actually ready to make the move.

I received a call yesterday informing me that I’ve been offered a position at a company I interviewed with. However, they mentioned that the official offer letter might take a few days to arrive. I’m considering whether I should send a thank you email now or wait until I get the offer letter. I already expressed my gratitude after the interview, but I’m unsure if it’s appropriate to send another thank you at this stage. Most advice I’ve seen suggests waiting until I have the official offer in hand, as it might seem premature to thank them for a letter that hasn’t arrived yet. I plan to follow up if I don’t hear back in the timeframe they provided.