Feeling frustrated, need to vent....

**momof42003** · 09-01-2009, 06:16 PM

I have been looking for work since February this year. I was lucky enough to find a part time job working for a retail store.. I am in no way "biting the hand that feeds me", but I really want a different job. I have only had true work experience with retail, and now that I want something more along the lines of clerical/teacher aid, I don't have the "work skills" to qualify for any postions. Just because I don't have some little piece of paper that says I am qualified to file, type, answer phones, use a copy machine, you know the simple things it takes to be a receptionist I can't find another job... I have literally put out over 100 applications, and I have no idea what else to do. My DH has been laid off since February, and has since gone back to school. He is receiving unemployment because his job was sent over seas, so schooling is free too. He can't work any (or very little), and I need a job to pick up the slack. I can't even technically buy the kids their school supplies or school clothes this year... We verily have enough money/food stamps to make our monthly bills and have food in the house. I feel totally frustrated, sad, and angry.. I just need a job that is more than 8 or 12 hours a week... UGGHH!!! Thanks for letting me vent. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

**Debbie-cat** · 09-01-2009, 06:22 PM

I am so sorry you are having such a difficult time finding work. Could you do in home daycare? That can bring in some extra cash and will allow you to stay at home. Or how about cleaning homes? There are always people who will pay someone to do that. I am sure you will get alot of ideas from the people here on FV. Good luck and keep us posted on how you do.

**frugalwarrior** · 09-01-2009, 06:28 PM

First, let me tell you I am sorry your struggling so. I have spent my summer doing nothing but paying unexpected medical bills and trying to find an inexpensive car.
Second, Could you put an ad in the local paper offering services. Gofur sort of things.Grocery shop.pet sit and walk, house clean,take dry cleaning,etc. Maybe pick up some cash like that now that the kids are back in school. Anything to increase pay.
Also, I bought most of our school clothes from Salvation Army 1/2 of clothes day and 5/$5. fridays. Also maybe check freecycle.
These are hard times. I am still trying to get together $20. to give a friend for their wedding 2 months ago.
Once your DH finishes school maybe you will be able to retrain. You outta check into financial aid if you went part time and see if you could go online maybe??

**CouponShelle** · 09-01-2009, 06:43 PM

I'm so sorry to hear you're frustrated and trying so hard. I don't have much in the way of advice except keep your head up.

to bring in extra money, have you thought of maybe delivering newspapers (which might get you some free coupons too), online surveys or do you make any handmade crafts you could sell on etsy.com?

**perSue** · 09-01-2009, 07:36 PM

Sorry to hear you're going through this.
What about calling up some places you'd like to work?
Also mail, not email, snail mail resumes too.
A lotta people get trapped in the "one way-itis"...
Check newspapers, the free local papers/ads, call up employment agencies, talk to friends, coworkers (you're adding another job, not leaving this one!

), people where you go shopping or walking down the street.
Talk to anyone & everyone & just ask "have you heard about any good jobs recently?" It's as simple as that... the worse that'll happen is you'll be ignored/snuffed/or get "no" as a response.
Check out all different websites, if you're just hugging to one or two specific ones... check out others too.
Go to employer's websites... sometimes those jobs don't show up on monster/indeed/careerbuilder/etc.
It never hurts to just email the HR manager & inquire if there are any positions open, state briefly you're interest in working for that company & attach a current resume... they'll keep in on file.

Again, my thoughts go out to you... but you can do this... it just takes some time.

Also, don't focus on what you "can't" do... focus on what you CAN do... ok so you're a slow typer... you're cautious & controlled.
A little shy over the phone? You're reserved and thoughtful, perhaps you prefer to script what you will say.
Think of things in those terms... who cares about the "can'ts"... it's the "are you capable of learning and learning quickly?"

**dcompton** · 09-01-2009, 07:58 PM

Have you considered a temp service? At least here, they give (very easy) typing etc. tests, to verify that you do in fact have these skills. With unemployment so high, they may be already overwhelmed with people looking for jobs, but it might be worth checking out.

**Greebo** · 09-01-2009, 08:28 PM

What talents do you have that can be used to generate income? Can you make something? Can you provide a (legal) service?

As long as you're making no money at a job anyway, maybe this is a good time to make no money on your own, and thus learn how to make money on your own as a result.

**Nana2two** · 09-01-2009, 08:36 PM

I was thinking a temp service. Is there a free adult school around you to take night class?

**mrsfoamy** · 09-01-2009, 09:37 PM

As a retail manager, I can tell you that these experiences are vital to your resume. The fact that you can be responsible for cash handling and customer maintenance are essential to someone in the clerical field. These are often the first impression and contact for the company you work for. Not a job to be looked upon lightly. Even though you are not interested in staying, request that you are interested in more responsibililty and act on it.

**mauimagic** · 09-01-2009, 09:43 PM

Check out your school systems to see if they hire educational assistants or paraprofessionals to assist with students in the special education departments. Good luck!!

**Missourimom** · 09-01-2009, 09:55 PM

Considering how dire your situation is, I'm assuming you are willing to take any type of work as long as it's legal and ethical. Have you checked into the medical field? Some nursing homes (at least here) will give you free training to become a CNA. You could also do home health. They are always looking for people around here who are reliable and hard workers and you can get anywhere from $10.50 an hour and up and most of them will work with your schedule.

**WV_mom_of2** · 09-02-2009, 01:53 PM

I don't have any advice but wanted to offer you a big hug! We've been struggling too and I know how hard and frustrating it can be!

**NikoSan999** · 09-02-2009, 02:18 PM

Some nursing homes or assisted living homes have free cna classes. Once certified you can get a job in same or in a hospital. A lot of them will then pay for nursing school...practical or RN in return for working for them for an agreed upon time. As long as you maintain the grades.