Still feeling terrible...

I don't know if it's that I always feel terrible or if I only feel like writing when I feel terrible. I'm actually feeling better than I would have expected right now. But still in the terrible range. I've decided to use this space to just rant my little heart out. For all of the well wishers that keep telling me to stay positive I thank you, it does help. Ranting about these things helps me to get them off my chest and feel better, not bitter. It helps me to stay positive, don't worry. So here goes...

First of all, job hunting sucks! Anyone who has had to do this would agree with me. The whole process is depressing and wrong. First, there's the whole resume/cover letter thing. It's impossible to keep up with what is outdated or absolutely required to win an interview. You put HOURS of work into these stupid things but then all the job websites also tell you there's a pretty good chance they're not even getting read because HR managers are sooooo busy. How's that for irony, you need a job and they need help so bad they don't have time to read your resume.

The actual application goes like this - either:

You have to hand write 5 pages of application with the exact same info that is on your resume. I have been informed without even asking by 3 (yes, 3) different HR ladies that writing "see resume" is completely unacceptable. One app I filled out wanted 10 YEARS of job history. Are you kidding me? What's THAT about?

Or:

You have to fill out an online application that is just as long. Of course it's not Mac compatible so I can't even do it from my own computer, I have to go to the internet cafe and pay to do it. There are free computers to do this at the company's HR office, but at least half of them are "Out of Order." And they make you choose from pre-selected answers. No such answer as "not applicable" or "I don't want to enter my salary requirements now, you jackass computer form!!!" They take a minimum of 45 minutes to complete, and at least once during this process you'll lose your connection and have to start all over. That's fun....

I'm just feeling terrible right now because yesterday I got a "we'll keep your info on file" letter from one of the 2 jobs I thought I was most qualified for. Then today, the job I thought I was MOST qualified for (out of all the apps I've put in) re-posted on Craigslist with out even contacting me. So I guess I shouldn't expect to get that job either.

And here's the worst part. Yesterday Jay and I went to Quizno's for lunch. Jay is being helpful by asking everyone we talk to if they have any jobs open or know of any jobs. He's a great networker. So he asks the guy at the register (who is obviously the manager or owner) that same question. And the guy says, "Well, that depends on who's asking." So I jump in and say that I'm the one looking for work. And he asks me, "Do you have any experience in fast food?" Ouch. As a matter of fact I do, but still, ouch... I mean, do you really NEED experience in fast food? Don't they hire high school kids for those jobs? Do you even need a high school diploma for those jobs? I'm 33, does the guy really think I'm not qualified to make a stinkin' sandwhich???? WHAT'S THAT ABOUT?

At least he said he would call me when he needs someone. I'l be starting at $8.00/ hr. In Hawaii, businesses have to pay medical coverage for any employee that goes over 20 hours a week, so I can expect to be working just enough hours to where he doesn't have to pay anything should I accidentally cut my pinkie off (or slit my own wrists because I'm working at Quizno's....)

Wish me luck peeps. It looks like I'm a gonna need it.