Y Gen Out Loud » Jobs

Gen Y finding their space in “app economy”

Tamara Bell — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:58:45 +0000

Facebook and mobile technology applications are incredibly popular, but did you know that, according to a University of Maryland study, last year they added more than 182,000 new jobs and contributed about $12.19 billion in wages and benefits to our economy?

To share with us more information about what’s been dubbed the “App Economy,” we have Scott Williamson, co-founder of Mondico, a Los Angeles-based publisher of online games and social applications. Scott joins Keeping Up with Gen Y to discuss how Gen Y can find their space in the growing app industry. He also talks about the future of apps as they become more integrated into new and interesting places beyond our mobile devices.

MORE ABOUT SCOTT WILLIAMSON

Scott Williamson, co-founder, Mondico

Scott Williamson is co-founder of Mondico, a Los Angeles-based publisher of online games and social applications. With over 15 years experience building and leading Internet companies, Scott develops the strategies and software architecture for Mondico’s sites.

Prior to Mondico, Scott was co-founder and Managing Director of Threshold Interactive, a leading digital agency in Los Angeles. At Threshold, Scott oversaw trend-setting online campaigns and digital initiatives for several leading companies and brands, including Nestlé Butterfinger and Waters, Honda, Sony, and Disney.

After graduating with an Engineering degree from Montreal’s McGill University, Scott went on to receive an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

You can listen to the show below or you can download it as a podcast from our iTunes page. And you can find us on WomensRadio.

Debt ceiling crisis continues to tax Gen Y’s future

Tamara Bell — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 11:49:51 +0000

After a summer of contentious debate, President Obama and congressional leaders earlier this month struck a deal on the debt ceiling that extends the Treasury’s authority to borrow beyond the 2012 elections. But what does this mean for our economy, both present and future?

Dr. John Irons, research and policy director at the Economic Policy Institute, joins Keeping Up with Gen Y to discuss both the short-term and long-term ramifications of the debate and the deal that kept our nation from its first-ever financial default. He also talks about the missed opportunities in the legislation to create jobs and invest in the country’s future.

MORE ABOUT DR. JOHN IRONS

Dr. John Irons, Research and Policy Director, Economic Policy Institute

Dr. John Irons joined the Economic Policy Institute as its research and policy director in 2007. His areas of research include the U.S. economy and economic policy, with an emphasis on federal tax and budget policy. He previously worked as the Director of Tax and Budget Policy at the Center for American Progress, a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Economics at Amherst College, for the Brookings Institution and at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

With a Ph.D. in Economics from MIT, John serves on the Committee on Electronic Publishing for the American Economic Association, and on the Board of Governors of the National Economists Club.

You can listen to the show below or you can download it as a podcast from our iTunes page. And you can find us on WomensRadio.

Gen Y competing in the global job market

Kelly Olin — Tue, 10 May 2011 13:46:01 +0000

In today’s competitive, post collegiate professional world, the “Average Joes” are not going to cut it. Gone are the days when you can run with a pack of other “normal American kids” and expect to get an “average job” with “average benefits” and live an “average life.” Now, and more so in the future, the “Average Joe” is going to stick out like a sore thumb and then be left in the dust. This is because in today’s job market, college grads are not only competing on a nationwide scale, but now on a global scale as well. This change has proven to be one you either embrace or be left behind.

Luckily, you DO have the CHOICE to step up and compete. But get started right away and don’t wait until after graduation. There are TONS of things you can do to better your resume overall, but this column is specifically going to focus on preparing for working within a global economy. Here are some tools and tips you can take advantage of TODAY, while you are still in school.

1. Learn a Foreign Language. English is not the world’s leading language, as many people may think. In fact, it falls third on a list of the 10 most popular spoken languages in the world. English falls closely behind Spanish while Mandarin Chinese takes the lead. Coincidentally, China and Mexico are the second and third top countries which the United States trades with, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Knowing the language of a major player in the global market shows a sense of respect and understanding of their culture. Some colleges require their students to take a foreign language and often use it as a determining factor when incoming freshman are applying. Many other countries learn multiple languages when they are young, why can’t we?

2. Take International Business Classes. We know that the economy is forever changing. The only way to stay competitive is to keep ourselves educated with the latest and greatest information. International business and cross culture communication courses are offered at many universities so make sure you are taking advantage of them. Who cares if they are not a required course within your major? Enroll in them as elective courses and you will really stand out among your peers. These courses are a thousand times more valuable to your career than some recreational elective on basket weaving or sailing. Investigate what your school has to offer. Many colleges have embraced the existence of a global economy and created majors, minors, and other specialized programs in response.

3. Study Abroad or Travel. Our view of the world is oftentimes limited to our own backyard. Some college students have never even been on an airplane! But taking that chance and exploring a world far greater than imagined is a great way to broaden your experiences and knowledge. According to a survey by the International Education of Students, 98 percent of students that studied abroad better understood their own cultural biases and value, 90 percent said they were influenced to seek out a greater diversity of friends, and 94 percent of the students said it has influenced their international connections. Studying and traveling abroad also allows you to make international connections that will stick with you throughout your career. Not to mention, studying abroad is FUN and looks fantastic on your resume. It shows employers you are flexible, adventurous, and are able to function outside your comfort zone. And don’t buy into the myth that studying abroad is “too expensive.” There are TONS of scholarships available, especially if you choose to study in a non-traditional location such as Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe. The cost of living is also something you should consider when determining a location. For example, when I studied abroad in Thailand, I actually saved money on room and board!

4. Engage in International Social Media. College students oftentimes use Skype and Twitter in order to stay connected to their friends and family once they go away to school. But the uses of social media do not stop there. On Twitter, follow international businesses and business people for a window inside their life. Engage people of different backgrounds and build your international network of friends. If you feel comfortable, take it to the next level and meet your new friend on Skype to get to know them better. Knowledge of Skype and other video chat mediums are growing in importance. Employers are beginning to conduct job interviews, meetings, and other conferences online so the more comfortable you are communicating this way, the better.

5. Get to Know Those from Other Countries. Foreign exchange students, visitors, and those new to the country are some of the best people to befriend. They have first-hand experience with other cultures and countries. Get to know them, learn about their culture, and share our American culture with them. Invite them to your home for the holidays and to events with your American friends. They are here for a reason! They want to learn about our culture so be a good ambassador. I think you will find that the relationship is mutually beneficial and you could make a lifetime friend.

These tips and tricks are crucial in order to be well-prepared for the global marketplace. The time is still yours to get out and make the most of the best years of your life!

Top 10 tips to get a job NOW

Kelly Olin — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:18:07 +0000

(Editor’s Note: Every week, Y Gen Out Loud will be publishing a column or two by Kelly Olin, a certified career coach, trainer, and expert speaker on Gen Y and careers. She also recently founded Next Stop Career, a professional development company aimed at helping Gen Y achieve their career dreams. I’ve known Kelly for almost a year, since she was a guest last summer on the Keeping Up with Gen Y radio show. I’m thrilled to have her posting here. Her columns will offer practical and useful advice for Gen Y seeking employment in this tough economic market. — T.B.)

The job market is tough out there for recent college grads. Few entry-level positions, coupled with competition from experienced professionals who are unemployed makes landing that “grown up” position quite frustrating. Here are few tips to give you that “Rock Star” edge on the job market.

10. Volunteer – President Obama has called our nation to step up and serve the community, so why not serve the community and help yourself at the same time!?! Volunteering for community organizations and non-profits can give you leadership and professional experience that you may not get in a paid position. Not to mention, it is a phenomenal way to network with other professionals in the business community.

9. Look the Part – Like Coca-cola and Google, YOU are a brand! In order to attract the position you want, you must look and act the part. Have you changed your hair style since high school? Do you dress like a college student who just rolled out of bed or a business professional ready to take on the day? Even when you run up to the drug store you never know who you will meet in line. If you are serious about finding a job, put on your grown-up game face. I know it might not be “fun” or “cool” but neither is living in your parents’ basement!

8. Know What you Want – Desperation reeks! So don’t act so desperate. NO, you will NOT take ANY old job. What good will it do you to spend 40 plus hours a week doing something you hate and see no future in? Take a breath and take a look at your values, talents, interests and experience and specifically target a position you can get excited about. Your employer will thank you.

7. Networking Works – Studies show that 70% of available positions are never posted on a job board and are found through personal connections. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce, or industry news source and see what events are going on in your area. The more specific the networking event is to your area of specialty, the better. Oh, and I know this idea is totally crazy… but FOLLOW UP with the connections you meet! Focus on how you can help them first and remember, “givers get.”

6. Get a Temp Job – Temp agencies will place you in paid temporary positions as an independent contractor. Temp positions in your industry can give you a foot in the door and allow you to start building relationships inside an organization.

5. Networking Cards - So you don’t have a job and thus you don’t have business cards? NO! Make your own! This new trend for students and the unemployed works brilliantly. Create a card with your name, contact information, educational credentials, area of focus, special skills, etc. These cards can inexpensively be created at Vistaprint or if you are feeling creative, print them yourself. There is nothing more annoying to a professional connection than someone not having a business card to give.

4. Intern – So, to be honest, you should have taken this piece of advice four years ago when you first stepped on campus, but I know…. shoulda, woulda, coulda! Now is the time to right this wrong. Taking an internship position (paid or unpaid) can give you experience in your chosen field and give you inroads into a company. Don’t just seek out the big traditional employers. Small businesses need help too and they are sometimes in the position to give you far more responsibility off the bat. A fantastic online internship resource is Intern Queen.

3. Alumni Connections – Join your university/college alumni association and again, (I know a totally novel idea) ATTEND their events! Get involved, join a committee, take on a leadership role. Alumni love helping students from their alma mater and will instantly find a common ground with you. You might even get really lucky and remind them of themselves at your age!

2. Employ Yourself - I know, I know, you might feel like you don’t know enough about anything to start your own company but who knows? What is your passion? What are you good at? Nearly every affinity can be made profitable if positioned correctly. Are you a fantastic athlete? How about running a sports camp this summer for kids? This can keep you busy, you can make some money, get some entrepreneurship experience and expose you to a whole new network of people… the PARENTS of the kids you will be teaching! Get creative and you will be amazed at all you have to offer the world.

1. Get Online – Unless you were born under a rock I am sure you at least have an email address and a Facebook page. But there is SO MUCH more you can do to promote your “brand” online! LinkedIn is a total must. Post as much professional information on the site as you can and build your professional credibility by getting recommended by your contacts. Twitter is another fantastic resource for building your online brand. Don’t know where to start or how to leverage these tools? Check out my recent blogs on the topic on my website, Next Stop Career.

Have specific questions? Shoot me and email at kellyolincoaching@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you!

Looking for jobs in all the right places

Lauren Phillips — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:03:01 +0000

It’s been a while since my last article, but I’ve been busy. Unfortunately, I haven’t been busy being employed. A life without a daily purpose can really weigh you down. Though, I’m glad to report, it’s not been all doom and gloom.

I’m still searching for my perfect job (or even an imperfect one). But instead of planting myself in front of my laptop and cruising the job boards, I’m taking advantage of networking events here in Austin. Even if you don’t live in Austin, I’m sure there are similar functions in cities all over the country.

Last week, I attended one in particular. Y Gen Out Loud hosted it, so I’m not exactly unbiased in my opinion about it. But if you have the opportunity to attend a comparable event, definitely do so. This wasn’t your typical, run-of-the-mill Happy Hour, where young, desperate attendees listen to older, wiser folks with careers go on about how jobs are available and we just need to work harder to land one.

No, this was different. Take one 6^th Street venue, toss in three professionals in social media, career counseling, and finance (David Neff, Valerie Hausladen, and J.D. Lewis, respectively), add ice cold beers, mix all together and, voila, you have “Networking with Purpose!” Of course, you may be wondering, aren’t bars the designated place for love networking, not job networking? Well, I’m no expert on the best locations to look for careers, but I can tell you that this event was the opposite of stuffy and uncomfortable.

I walked around the patio, introducing myself and talking to others, some in the same boat as me, some employed with job leads. But the thing was, I was just myself. And I have come to believe, over these months of unemployment, that the secret to networking is being confident in who you are and what you have to give as an employee.

I left that night with four business cards from four new acquaintances. The event was fashioned to provide an intimate space where professionals and young wannabes could talk about the best ways to achieve their career goals. And I guess I made an impression, because two of the business cards I snagged were from folks who forwarded my resume to potential employers.

I feel like a broken record, but from one unemployed to another, the key right now is NETWORKING! Wherever you go, don’t be afraid to ask about opportunities, shake hands, and ask for business cards.

But don’t stop there. The follow up is just as important and could help you nab that perfect job you yearn for. Believe me, I feel your pain. But make sure to take advantage of all the networking events in your hometown, even the ones that seem atypical. You never know where they might lead you.

Book review: Y’s Up!

Regan Mathias — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:30:23 +0000

Y’s Up! 85 Tips From the Trenches to Help You Succeed in Today’s No-Guarantees Job Market

By James J. Simon and Nicole D. Simon
Paperback 192 pages
BookSurge Publishing $15.99

A quick skim of Y’s Up! 85 Tips From the Trenches to Help You Succeed in Today’s No-Guarantees Job Market is rather unimpressive. Many tips, such as “Number 60: Dressing to Impress,” seem so obvious that nobody should need a book for this advice. Others, such as “Number 10: Empowering Your PowerPoint,” seem very useless. Who in Generation Y doesn’t know how to use PowerPoint? Still other tips, such as “Number 16: Less is Sometimes More,” feel too cliché to apply in real-life situations.

However, an in-depth reading of Y’s Up! provides invaluable insight for anyone starting a career. James Simon and Nicole Simon have 25 years of combined experience in the business world and it shows in their work. It is clear that they have experience in both entry-level and managerial positions. From both perspectives, they offer advice on how to ace an interview, how to ensure a promotion, and how to secure a job in a tough economy.

Reading the tips that may seem dumb at first glance can actually be quite educational. Yes, everyone knows to dress for success, but not everyone knows what that entails. The authors offer more than just what is appropriate office wear. They offer advice on how to avoid a bad impression if someone spills his coffee on you during the day (a back-up shirt in the car never hurt anybody) and other scenarios that you may not think about until it is too late.

Their advice on PowerPoint is actually useful – even to technologically savvy Generation Y. Knowing how to use the program is not enough to guarantee success. Simon and Simon point out the traps that many people get caught in when presenting with PowerPoint. Too much information on one slide can be overwhelming and reading directly off the slide gives the impression that you are ill prepared and lack confidence.

Even the cliché “Less is Sometimes More” offers knowledge that could help a career. Everyone is guilty of being a little verbose at times or offering unnecessary information. Perhaps this seems innocent, but as the authors illustrate with another cliché, time is money and nobody in the office appreciates it when her time is wasted.

The one area lacking in this book is advice on obtaining a job. The final tip, “Number 85: Maximizing Your Chances for a Successful Interview,” is longer than any other tip. Yet, resumes are barely mentioned and many of the tips for interviews are not included in the real-life example, which makes it hard to translate their advice into action. Still, Simon and Simon acknowledge that there are other books better suited for those attempting to find jobs and ace interviews. This book is designed to guide those who already have jobs.

Overall, the authors provide excellent insight into the mind of a manager. Their book offers a unique perspective that could only be written by those who have been there. They provide the reader with detailed career advice, but more importantly, they create the mind-set of a person driven to succeed. With these tips, your career could go a long way.

Gen Y job outlook not all bleak

Regan Mathias — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 06:48:12 +0000

With the jobs-creation bill possibly heading for defeat in the U.S. Senate next week, and the unemployment rate at 9.7 percent, it’s no wonder that Generation Y is nervous about their economic future.

Even though the situation looks bleak, there may be hope for our generation. Some companies have managed to grow despite the recession, adding entry-level positions more often filled by recent college graduates. HomeAway, a vacation rental Web site, is one of those businesses.

“We don’t consider the age of applicants when recruiting,” said Lori Knowlton, vice president of Human Resources at HomeAway. “But we do find that we have many entry level applicants for our customer support and telesales roles. The most successful applicants for these jobs often have one to two years of experience in a customer service role and have strong technical skills.”

Other companies have grown around Generation Y. Homescout Realty, a Chicago real estate company, was recently ranked the 16th best workplace in the Windy City for Generation Y.

“The age range of our agents works with the age range of our clients,” said Jordan Wilson, business operations manager for Homescout. “Our clients are all recent graduates and it is easier for our agents of the same demographics to connect with them. They are able to build relationships and build their careers with these clients. They will help them rent an apartment now and help them buy in the future.”

Still, a struggling economy makes finding jobs difficult, especially when fighting against negative stereotypes. As pointed out by Jason Dorsey, author of Y-Size Your Business: How Gen Y Employees Can Save You Money and Grow Your Business, many employers have bought in to the idea that Generation Y isn’t as committed to hard work as previous generations.

“The biggest apprehensions I hear about Generation Y are that we act like we should be rewarded for doing the minimum, that we don’t carry ourselves in a professional manner at work, that we want constant praise, and that we are disloyal because we tend not to work for one company for many years,” Dorsey said. “It’s important to note that not all employers feel this way, but the ones who do tend to be quite vocal.”

On the other hand, Dorsey said that Generation Y does have some redeeming qualities. We are known for being technologically savvy, optimistic, good problem-solvers, and always striving for self-improvement. These qualities have not gone unnoticed by employers.

“In our entry level roles, our employees are using multiple systems to help our customers manage their property listing,” said Knowlton of HomeAway. “So it’s important to be able to solve problems effectively using a variety of tools and techniques.”

The key to landing a job, according to Dorsey, is highlighting these skills and addressing the concerns that employers may have.

“Focus on your achievements, desire to work hard, and willingness to learn on the job,” Dorsey advised. “Confront the Gen Y stereotypes head on. Let the potential employer know that you are committed to being on time – or a few minutes early – dressing professionally, working well with others of all ages and backgrounds, and trying to build a career rather than just look for a job.”

A lack of experience does not always mean that an applicant has nothing to offer a potential employer, Dorsey added. “One other tip taken from the front lines of job seeking: emphasize your past achievements rather than responsibilities. Potential employers want to know what you have accomplished and this could extend into the community or school if you don’t have much work experience.”

Gen Y’s job search up close

Samantha Scharff — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 05:47:35 +0000

The notion of being handed a full time job straight out of college is quickly fading for graduates in the 21st century. A recent statistic brings it home further. Less than 20 percent of students in the class of 2009 had jobs when they graduated. This leads us to ask what is in store for the next generation? How are recent college graduates dealing with the situation?

Michael (who, like the others interviewed for this article, asked to be referred to by first name only), a 22-year-old graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, describes the job search as much more difficult than he had expected. Graduating with excellent grades in economics, he thought finding employment wouldn’t be as strenuous as the reality has proved. The main drawback has been his lack of experience.

“I think I’m a highly credible candidate for the companies I’ve been applying to, but the majority of them won’t even consider hiring me because I don’t have two to three years of prior experience,” Michael said. “This just frustrates me because I don’t understand when they would have expected me to gain that experience while I’ve been working hard on my degree.”

Others such as Katlyn, a 24-year-old art history major, have found looking for a job in such specialty fields even more taxing. Currently a graduate student at UT focused on museum and community-based art education, Katlyn’s main concern is if the economy doesn’t get better her area of expertise will be less in demand.

“When times are bad and the economy worsens, art education programs are usually the first to be cut,” she noted. “This leaves me extremely anxious about the field of study I’ve chosen. It’s my passion, but what if I can’t find a job for years to come?”

While Stephanie, 23, expected a challenge in finding her dream career, she wasn’t prepared for the fact that even jobs she’s over-qualified for are difficult to come by. “It’s not even the jobs with high salaries or great benefits that are hard to find these days, but with this economy it feels like any job at all is hard to find!”

Like many in her generation, having a fall back plan to support herself is imperative. Stephanie is waiting tables while pursuing her employment goals.

Job interviews: not always a foot in the door

Lauren Phillips — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:38:53 +0000

After a month spent clearing my head and trying to come to terms with the fact that I was now part of the unemployed (it sounds more like an affliction), I decided to get back on the horse and seek out job interviews. For anyone who is searching for a job again, you know what I am talking about. It takes effort to prepare yourself mentally and physically for interviews. Add in the need to rework your resume to focus on the skills that employers are looking for now, and it can be a grueling time.

Most jobs provide an opportunity to build relationships that you can call on in case of emergency. My unemployment is such an emergency. I called on my employed friends, hoping something positive would come from it. Unfortunately, I was wrong. Oh, there were the occasional lunches with ex-coworkers, where I showed them my latest reworked resume and asked for any job leads. And in the few weeks after my unemployment, I felt hopeful that all this networking would turn into a new position.

But I quickly realized that the professional world is a busy one that has little time to deal with the unemployed. I know I sound negative and pessimistic, but, honestly, this was a dark time for me. As it is for many without jobs. It’s the month or so after you’ve been let go and it dawns on you that another position may not be right around the corner. At that point, panic begins to take over.

I can only say I must have been in a state of panic around the time I was put in touch with a liquor company that apparently had a marketing position open. Naturally, I began picturing myself behind a big oak desk, writing marketing-type reports and taking marketing-type calls. I talked to the company’s Director of Marketing and got an interview for that same day. Before I hung up, though, she asked me to bring a photo. I thought it was strange but, really, I was too excited that this job could be the one to end my unemployment.

So, just as I was taught in school, I went to the company’s Web site and devoured all the information. I wanted to be on fire when I walked through the doors. A few hours later, dressed in my best serious attire, I grabbed my resume folder, cover letter, reference letters, photo, and hit the road. I should have known something was up when the company address was an extravagant home on the outskirts of Austin.

I walked in to a group interview, something I had never experienced before. The Director of Marketing was dressed as if she had been running errands all day hoping to not see anyone she knew. This wasn’t exactly what I had expected, but I kept my head up and my confidence high.

The Director of Marketing instructed me to sit down at the table, a kitchen table. Four other girls were sitting at the table, also waiting to be interviewed. How should I put this? I was a tad-bit over-dressed. One girl at the end of the table could not have been older than 18, and the girl sitting across from me looked like she was ready to hit 6th Street.

The group interview was just awkward. At the end, there were contracts for each of us to fill out and turn in. The first page was fairly standard, but the second page was just weird. It asked for my weight, height, hair color, eye color and cup size – yes you read that right. I quickly added everything together and realized that I wasn’t interviewing for a marketing position that came with an oak desk. I was interviewing to be a promo girl that goes to bars asking if you want a free Coors Light. Not exactly my dream job.

I left without looking back, after first filling out the form (hey, I’m desperate). While this was one of my most unique job interviews, it wasn’t a complete waste of time. I know how much beer girls make and what the job entails, so if you’re interested in learning the ins and outs, just ask. After that interview it was back to the drawing board for me.

Follow me on Twitter @LaurenMPhillips.

Adventures in job hunting

Lauren Phillips — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 02:49:50 +0000

In these tough job-hunting times, everyone could use some advice, a sounding board, and definitely a laugh. That’s why I’m here. Through this column, I will share my life experiences in the world of unemployment, since I am, well unemployed. It’s been eight months and counting since I had a stable, full-time job with benefits and insurance.

But before I get into talking about my struggle to find gainful employment, let me start by introducing myself. My name is Lauren Phillips, and I am a 25-year-old graduate of The University of Texas who still resides in Austin. I graduated with a degree in English and a minor in Communication. Sometime in the spring of my junior year I fell in love with the world of radio. I was lucky enough to stay there until recently when I was let go because of budget cuts, something I’m sure some of you are very familiar with.

I started out my radio career as an intern for a top station in Austin. I moved quickly to the promotions and marketing department as a part-time employee. Soon after, I was promoted to full time and was happy! I loved that department and really felt as though I had found my niche. I had one more promotion and thought this is where I would stay.

But then came the ever popular (dun, dun, DUN) budget cuts, and that pretty much sums up where I am today.

Don’t get me wrong. I am in no way upset or bitter towards my former employers – sad yes, but not angry. It is a hard thing to deal with, but it makes you stronger in the end. I am not going to lie – I did shut down for a while just to get my thoughts straight and to clear my head, which I think is much needed when someone for the first time becomes one of the unemployed masses.

With all that said, I plan to use this column to describe and explain what I have been through these past eight months (and maybe more as the column goes on), with a liberal dose of sarcasm and humor thrown in. With any luck, my adventures will make it easier for you to cope and know that you’re not alone in the unemployment boat. And I want to hear from you, about your travails through the laid off land mine, in the hope that we can learn from each other as we work to become full-time employees!

Follow me on Twitter @LaurenMPhillips.