I was hired two years ago to start up a magazine, which was part of a marketing plan for a major mail-order merchandiser. We were told at that time that we’d have two years to make a go of things.
The magazine has been a success – as a magazine. As part of an overall marketing strategy, however, it has been a failure. Rather than continue to pour money into it, the client is pulling the plug.
Although I’d known this was a possibility, what few signs there had been, I’d misread, so this hit me pretty much out of the blue. (It also apparently hit my boss out of the blue, when she found out last week. She, however, still has a job, as does the other marketing genius whose idea this was.)
I’m getting a month’s severance, but as of now, I’m available, should anyone know of anyone who needs a really good magazine editor. Or an art director, managing editor, or assistant editor, for that matter – my staff is also looking.
Shit.
Plus, my beloved Aunt Mary Ann died last night, at age 92.
I’m especially sorry about your old Auntie, jobs can come and go but Auntie’s don’t come round again, unfortunately.
Sorry about the magazine, but try and feel good about giving it your best effort. And try, though I know it’s difficult, to have the expectation that this happened so the next exceptionally wonderful job could come into your life, because it could.
And if you get bummed, well, we’re all right here and have big ears!
What a slap in the face. Sorry about your misfortunes. On an encouraging note Rascal’s Mom has had great news after her job loss. May your situation work out as well.
{{{{Twickster}}}}
It always hurts, doesn’t it? Hang in there, lady. At least in you’re in good company on the unemployment line. Here’s hoping that by Gettysdope you’re telling us about your great new job.
Indeed. I am sorry about your aunt. She was lucky to live to such an age, and have relatives that care such as you do.
In terms of the job, I highly recommend doing what I did. Suffer your moment of panic, live in that moment, steep in it, but let it be only a moment. Then take action. Let your loved ones know, ask for their support, and market the hell out of yourself.
Twickster, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Please greave for your aunt…and then geave for your job. Greave hard…and then, when you can’t get another tear out, throw yourself into that job market like Mike Tyson hungry for ears. Take no prisoners (and best of luck).
Oh twickster, I am doubly sorry for you. I hope your Aunt went peacefully at least.
If I recall this was pretty close to your dream job. Do you have any irons in the fire? On the only bright side, if you are going to be out of work for a few weeks or a few months, this is the right time of year for it. My brother is going through the same thing right now. He is halfway hoping he doesn’t find anything for a few months.
How awful. I’m sorry about your aunt and, of course, about your job as well. Here’s hoping someone reading this thread has connections (you can probably drum up a few thousand references as to your skills just on this board).
Well, shit, is right. My condolences on both counts.
I had the same thing happen with a start-up (I was the ME) and even the week before, the publisher was assuring us she had every intention of going onward with the venture. What she meant was, without paying any of her staff. It was a bad time.
Things will get better, though, and obviously, now you have lots more excellent experience.
My aunt had been hale and healthy till a few months ago, when she broke a leg. As they often do with people that age, things snowballed from there. She had excellent care and the end came fairly quickly. She was an amazing, loving woman – absolutely the best heart of anyone I’ve ever met. I will miss her very much.
As for the job – ah well. Something will come up, it always does, and I’m curious to see what twist the adventure that is my life will take next. I knew when I took the job that it might not last beyond two years and decided to take the gamble. I’ve had a wonderful time with it, had the great good fortune to do good work with an excellent group of people, and can add some very impressive lines to my resume.