The Unemployed Diaries.

Update: Through the encouragement of Samantha Ogborn and Beth Harte, I have made a list of what I’m looking for, etc in my job search. You can find it here.

As much as joking can help me cope with life situations (and we won’t delve into personal, only professional), I really don’t want to be a plumber. Even if Mario and Luigi made it cool, or I believe acid-wash overalls can make a serious comeback.

Yep, your conclusion is correct. I’m unemployed. This month has been the most up and down, crazy ride I’ve ever been on.

A month of self discovery. A month of realizing who my true friends are, who would be there and who only cared about what I could do for them. A month of mental exhaustion, of beating my brain/myself up and thinking that I wasn’t good enough. Of hearing through the grapevine of what was being said behind my back and the false conclusions that were drawn.

A month of consistently calling/IMing David Spinks, Jeremy Pepper, Elysa Rice, Scott Bishop, Sam Ogborn, Katie Morse, Beth Harte, Alex Tan, Stuart Foster and countless others, seeking advice and just needing a pep talk. My friends and my amazing family have been there through it all. I’ve had good days, I’ve had bad.

Do you know what else this month has been? A month of reaching out behind the scenes and coming away with some really solid leads. I learned not only about myself, but about who I was. I really pinpointed what I was good at, and why I got into public relations in the first place. The mesh of traditional and digital PR fascinates me more and more everyday.

I’ve gone out on limbs and tried more these past two years of my career than I ever thought was possible. I have so many people to thank for the opportunities that have come my way. However? I’m not sure if I liked some of the facets of my professional personality. The hard working, detail-oriented, giving it my all person is still there – but I’ve also improved on areas in my life that needed a serious facelift.

Maybe that’s what this point in my life is for. I can’t tell you where I’ll actually end up being. I’m so grateful for the mentors, for the numerous career opportunities, for the amazing people in my life. The me you see on Twitter, or my blog, or even through IM conversations is only a small fraction of who I am, both personally and professionally. This journey isn’t easy. No one will ever tell you that it is.

I told Jason Keith that I was writing down every feeling, thought or experience that happened to me during it. I don’t want to profit off it, and I don’t want to bring attention to myself. What do I want to do? To show people that you aren’t alone. This can happen to anyone. We aren’t invincible – but it’s those that still rally around you at the end of the day that make this worth it.

So what do I hope to accomplish with this post? I’m just putting it all out there. I don’t want a post that screams “Hire Me!” or lists off accomplishments. I don’t want to beat your head with it. If you hear of anything, let me know. That’s all I ask. You can see my experience here.

This is where I am now. This uncertainty scares the hell out of me. But, for once? I’m ok with it. Cheers to the next chapter….. whatever that may be.

Dig what you read? Share with others:

Meredith Julian

Lauren,
This blog post really helped me keep the faith. I am graduating college in May with a degree in PR and am struggling to keep my cool as I enter the job search. While I know the right job is out there for me too,
is so easy to become lost and frustrated. There is so much competition these days that sometimes it's just hard to get noticed! I'm with you on the fact that these past few weeks have been great for self-realization, but I am ready to know what I will be doing with my life! Thanks for helping me to remember that it's not just me. Good luck!
Grace Boyle

You know you're amazing, you really are.

If I can help in any way, let me know. I'm looking forward to hearing your journey and staying strong in moving forward, onwards and upwards as I like to say !!
JGoldsborough

A person's network says a ton about them. And the support you're receiving here is an awesome statement about you. I left Chicago a few years back for a corporate job in KC only to have it frozen. I spent 3 months unemployed, which sucked. But I when I finally ended up with a job, it was working for some of best people and PR pros I could have ever hoped for. I would have been worse off if I'd ended up with that initial job.

Keep your head up and keep doing what you're doing. You will end up somewhere great with great people where you can make a difference. Here's another cliche: "Good things happen to good people." But cliches are cliches for a reason...because they're true.
Valerie Gonzalez

Hi Lauren,

You know what I admire so much about you? The fact that even though you've been enduring a very stressful situation for a month, you really couldn't tell otherwise as an outsider looking in. Among many other things, you have poise and class. You are truly a role model to me. I'm sure I'm not the only one that looks up to you, too.

I have no doubt that you'll be able to bounce back into a much brighter situation. You may not know why any of this happened now, but it'll become clear eventually. Until then, I'm happy to see you using this as an opportunity for self-improvement. Your work ethic and self-awareness will help you succeed in anything and everything. Just give it time and trust you're heading in the right direction. You're a great person and I can't wait to see good things come your way.

Thanks for sharing your story,

Valerie Gonzalez
emilyhanhan

Lauren, I'm wishing you so much luck in the job hunt. I've been there for six months and, well, it wasn't pretty. But, I also realized that my six months of unemployment (straight out of college in NC -> 6 mo internship in NYC -> 6 mos unemployment in NYC) helps make me who I am. I got involved in so much that I would not have normally done so. "Out of industry" events, projects, etc that, while it may not have gotten me the job I have now, has expanded my personal network tremendously. I have friends I would have never imagined having before that break. I most DEFINITELY had some ugly, down, depressing days (weeks, months) but the good times? They were great. So embrace it, everything that comes with unemployment. And keep werkin' it, the next chapter will reveal itself to you quickly.
Cynthia Smoot

Darn it... people have already used all my standard cliches about how "when one door close, another opens". So, I'll give you one of my awesomesauce favorite quotes of all time:

"I cannot control the outcome of any situation, only every decision I make along the way." Marianne Williamson, Course of Miracles.

I believe in the Law of Attraction. What you put out there, come back to you. Be truthful with yourself and others. Approach each opportunity with a pure and open heart and the Universe will bring you the perfect job. Guaranteed. The great thing about talented people, is that they are always in great demand. Good luck!
Christa Marzan

Lauren-

I can imagine how much effort and bravery it took you to write this post, and I applaud you for doing so. I'm glad you took this past month for some self-discovery, both professionally and personally. I will definitely keep my eyes and ears out for anything that you would rock at and pass it on ;)

Good luck and let me know if I can help you in any way! You have my number [and email address, and Facebook, and Twitter handle ;)]<3

-Christa
Martha G. Chavez

Lauren,

You're kind of my superhero. I don't think you realize how many people you've helped and are helping by simply posting this.

I've been so lucky this past year to have met so many amazing people on Twitter that want nothing but to help others out. As someone who's been out of college for a year and still not landing a job, it's been rough. I was beginning to doubt myself and wondering if I was even in the right field. Your love and enthusiasm are contagious and have inspired me to keep pushing on. Oh yeah, and you crack me up with everything you say. For all of this I thank you.

There is no doubt in my mind that you'll find a job right away. I know you will. I'm a Pisces, I know things ;) You're in my thoughts! Best of luck, and I hope to talk to you soon!

Hugs and High Fives,

Martha
Stephanie Danielle Martinez

#Immaletyoufinish, but I really thought this blog post would have been better if...

Just kidding, I thought this was a very honest and bold post to reveal some of the challenges you face and what you're doing to deal with it. You have an amazing talent and I'm sure with the hard work you're doing, you will have no problem finding a fabulous job.

Thanks for always being there for me as a mentor, you're amazing and I'm here for you now if you need anything.

Good news: now we can finally have that lunch :D <3
Jessica Griffin

Having been unemployed on and off for most of 2009 and part of 2010 I can feel your pain. I commend you big time for putting it out there. I don't think I was as vocal during my time but I really wish I would have been. So kudos to you!

You will learn more about yourself through this time then you have in the past 5 years. That's what I found in my experience. Yes, you find who is really there for you (your tribe) and who is not. That can be mentally trying as well. But in the end it's so satisfying.

I consider myself a pretty hardcore networking queen (its the Type-A in us right?) and at a point when I almost played around with the idea of getting out of PR/social media all together I landed the perfect gig. It's crazy how that stuff happens. But its so worth it. You'll look back and say, WOW, I got through this? Imagine what else I can do.

Best of luck to you can't wait to follow the journey!
Katie Morse

Lauren,

I know I've said this before (and trust me, I'll say it again), but I truly appreciate you and feel lucky to have you in my life. Though we met through professional channels you've quickly become someone who I not only respect in the professional space, but also consider a close friend.

I was unemployed during the worst 2 months of my life in 2008 and while I was semi public about everything that was going on (shoot, it's one of the reasons I stayed on Twitter), I know that I didn't handle things with the grace and maturity you have shown here.

:)

-Katie
sbishop

Wait...I'm considered a "two-bit social media guru working out of their mom's basement"?????
YESSSSSSS!!! I didn't realize I made the leap from my sister's couch to mom's basement (insert Jefferson's theme song).

Well, as awkward as this sounds Lauren...congrats. You'll have no problem finding a role you're great at. In the meantime, drinking lunches sound fabo. Take advantage of this time to catch your breath, self reflect, empty bullshit that proves to be less important now than it was in the past. And of course let me know how I can help.
Matt Cheuvront

Having been there and wrote about it openly - taken flack from some and seen a ton of support from others - I know what this is like... I was there earlier this year (even though it seems like forever ago).

I don't know if you're worried or not - but if you are - don't be. The whole "one door closes, another opens", while cheesy and totally cliche', is surprisingly true. Stick to your guns, keep doing what you do, don't look back, and they'll be nothing but success in your future. The naysayers along the way will only make you stronger. I know you well enough to know you'll do great, great things.
Megankategreen

Agreed!! I was there this year, too. It happens! But it gives you a chance to put things into perspective and regroup. When you come back (which, of course you will) you'll be even more poised and ready to kick some butt!

Rest up lady - it's only a matter of time until people are knocking down your door!
Mike D. Merrill

Hey Lauren, I think it's wise to make it known you are looking. I had a similar post last year when I went through a career transition. It will work out. You're smart, well connected and know the path to find opportunities online. Let's chat next week some time.

@MikeDMerrill
Kellye Crane

I think way more people should make it known far and wide when they're seeking a new position. In fact, one of the folks giving you advice to do so ignored my advice of the same a couple years ago (they know who they are). :-) So glad to see you do this Lauren, and I'm sure it will yield great rewards!
bethharte

Are you talking about me?? LOL! :) I DIDN'T do exactly this when I was laid off in 2008 and now I wish I would have. You know what they say... hindsight is always 20/20.

Eating crow, yum! Thanks Kel. Love ya buddy! :D
Jonathan Saar

Laura it was super cool to meet you and I love you sharing your thoughts. The emotions of being unemployed just plain suck. It happened to me once two years ago and I appreciate certain folks who were there for me at that time. Bottom line is you really know who your friends are in a time of challenge or crisis and I am happy that you had yours there to support you.
Sara Beth Allen

This is a sensitive post and thankfully is not called, "5 Easy Steps to Becoming An Overzealous Go Getter!" Amy has a point that eventually you have to pick yourself up and hustle but when written in this manor all we hear is, "Oh Amy is a prrrick." Extra r for emphasis. Sometimes listening goes so much farther then trying to help. All of the cliche advice about hustling takes time. You can be told to hustle every day for the rest of your life and it still takes at least 30 years to say, win the Nobel Peace Prize. It's very important that we discuss how to share it with friends and family when we get fired. Everyone gets fired. It's horrifying.
James Ryan Moreau

Lauren, I'm so sorry to read this. I know what it feels like to put yourself out there, take big career risks and feel like you sort of get an ass kicking the further you put yourself out there... but for some reason, we keep doing it... and it's awesome. I know you're going to make some awesome connections, meet someone that's hiring for a job that's perfect for you, or maybe you'll start freelancing full time or something in the meantime like I did. Either way, you're better for every single hiccup you experience in your career and personal life and you're coming out on top. No doubt about it.
elysa

So, can I just say that I love that you wrote this. A few years ago I had a friend who was laid off with no warning. Well, the warning was "the entire company is closing". I ended up writing a blog post inspired by her (Waking Up Unemployed - http://www.genpink.com/waking-.../) that to this day is one of my favs.

I think in any situation that changes the path you've been traveling on (whether for 2 months or 10 years/from losing a job to getting divorced or on happier side having a baby) it's very important to have outside people to talk to for perspective. People give us balance, strength, encouragement, and reality when we need it.

I agree with Sam "While I know it was important for you personally to write this post, you are indirectly speaking to everyone and words cannot explain the magnitude of people you'll be helping and how you'll be helping them by writing this." AND I think although it was important for you to write this today it will also be important for you to read this when you're "on the other side".

I remember when I went through a big breakup I was too nervous to write about it for the longest time. Once I did I was very glad to get it all out there. So cheers to putting it all out therel! And of course there will be cheers all around the day all those people mentioned above (honored that I'm one of them) get to do the "Of course Laura is working THERE" dance.
Ryan Knapp

Laura - thanks for being honest here and good luck in finding a position. Take the time you need to reflect and get ready, and you'll be better off in the end.

Uncertainty can drive you.

And if I hear anything, I'll let you know.
Tiffany Monhollon

Laura - Thank you so much for sharing. I applaud the perspective that, no matter what the experience, the choice to learn, grow, and share about it is worthwhile. And not just to you, but to us all.

I'll certainly let you know of anything I hear about!
Amy McCarthy

I think this post would have been more useful if you had maybe described ways to pick yourself up out of that funk. Talking to your friends and networking is smart, sure, but getting out, beating the pavement, and hustling are the only thing that's going to get you a job.

Everyone has been fired or laid off. Everyone. Most of us don't have the luxury of taking a month off - there are bills to pay and a big mouth to feed, in my case. Again, it's all about hustle. Sitting around and trying to draw strength from other people isn't going to get you anywhere.

More specifically, though, I think you have to be realistic about yourself and your prospects (speaking generally). Don't fluff up some term paper into a case study. It's not fair or real. Be honest about your credentials, and don't expect anyone to do anything else for you.

My best friend and I both have been laid off/"your position no longer exists"-ed this year. We both hustled. Went to job interviews. Filled out an inordinate number of applications for jobs we didn't want and weren't qualified for.

I'm sorry, but this sounds like the epitome of a #firstworldproblem. People lose their jobs every day, even the ones that they've thrown their entire lives into. Trust me, it's happened to me too. But wondering what went wrong isn't going to move you anywhere.

Neither is name-dropping. No one cares who you know. Especially if they're some two-bit social media "guru" working out of their mom's basement. Even if they are PRESIDENT AND GOD OF XY SOCIAL MEDIA AGENCY. Be real, be yourself, and do what you have to do.

Secondly, self-evaluation is a brilliant thing. I think that you should evaluate your entire skill set when you leave a job, and more importantly, HOW you left that job. If they fired you because you have a crappy attitude, it doesn't matter how "awesome" and "special" you are. You're going to keep bouncing around until you realize that you could possibly be the problem.

It sucks that you're (speaking actually to Lauren, now!) unemployed, and I hope you find something soon.
Windsurfer567

Amy's right, and it's also important to know that everything you do professionally has to be about the client or the corporation, not about being a rock star. As soon as you make everything all about you, you're done.
Vargaslmv

Wow. I am appalled. Remember, what you write is permanent. Expressing and being open about the experience is awesome because Laura is taking this as an opportunity to grow as a person and professional. Get over yourself. Perhaps the agenda or conspiracy theories you constantly seek are because they hit a bit too close to home.
Jeremy Pepper

As a person that was name-dropped and a two-bit social media guru (ironically, I consider myself a PR person - with 2 Silver Anvils - but that's besides the point), um, what's a nice way to tell you to STFU?

Unless you live with Lauren, and know what she does on a daily basis, your comment is way off base.

And if you don't like my opinion as a two-bit guru, or whatever you called a bunch of us, you can freely unfollow me on Twitter. Actually, please do.

Apparently my years of mentoring students and interns, 15+ years in PR and all that jazz make me unworthy of you.
JasonFalls

Um #fail.
Mack Collier

I've heard of 'bad-hair days', I have now seen a 'bad-commenting day'.
Laura Babbili

Amy, what you call "name-dropping" is what the rest of us call being grateful. I'm pretty sure the reason Laura calls out the people who have been there and come through for her is not so she can boast about how she knows some incredible people (By the way, the "two-bit social media "guru" working out of their mom's basement"? To whom are you actually referring? Because everyone Laura mentions in this post is a actually pretty brilliant when it comes to PR and social media. But I digress.), it's so she can thank them publicly for being so great and helpful. It's why people like me love Laura and will always respect her both professionally and personally. If you do something nice for her, it will never go unacknowledged.

Just my two cents on that.

Lauren, I admire your honesty in this post. I had some similar thoughts when I was unemployed earlier this year [but you know that; we've talked about this :)] Still, I like that you're ok with being scared and embracing this self-discovery, a blessing in disguise.

See you tomorrow night. xo
Jenn

Umm Amy? You need to stop talking.

Preferably forever, but at least about things you know nothing about.

As one of Lauren's close friends, who was there for her during the last month, I can honestly say that no one has worked harder to network and "pound the pavement" as you say, than Laura has. As a recent graduate who has yet to find work, I've even been inspired by her go-getter attitude and networking and outreach techniques that I've now adopted in my own job search.

I think the point of this post was for Laura to share her experiences over the last month with her friends - it was not a cry for advice, a "poor me" diatribe, or any of those things. I think it's presumptive of you to judge her efforts when you lack background knowledge. I'm especially surprised at your lack of positive support, seeing as how you say you've also been in a similar position this year and should be empathetic to the struggles of job searching in this economy.

I'm trying to give you the benefit of the doubt here, that you were truly trying to be supportive and instead ended up with a condescending "holier than thou" advice column. I urge you to be more empathetic in the future, or better yet, keep your mouth shut.
Amy McCarthy

Ummmm Jen? Apparently you can't read.

I addressed my comment to the general "YOU." I didn't say anything specific to Laura (other than I hope you find a job. God, I am such a jerk.) I didn't judge anything about Lauren's efforts, period.

I think I was totally sympathetic to her point - it sucks being unemployed. Is that not the point?

Additionally, I was unaware that Laura was the only person on earth that is allowed to have an opinion. I'm fairly certain that I prefaced my comments with "I think," and based what I said on my experiences.

I realize that Laura is your friend, and I stick up for my friends too.

Holier than thou? Please. I am the last person that plays that game - i think you may be talking about yourself. Especially after that bitchy tweet that you sent. I am allowed to have my opinion, say what I want, and I thought that this post merited a comment.

I'm pretty sure that my comment boils down to "hustle, work hard, and don't rely on anyone else."

And wait, sorry. Hold the freaking phone. Aren't you in Atlanta? You've "seen" how hard she works? What, on Facetime? Calm down sweetheart. Once you get past the internship phase of your life and have a real job, you might have a different perspective.

We all work hard. Laura knows her shit, I'll give her that, but she's not working any harder than the rest of us.

My favorite part of all of this is that you guys have just completely jumped the shark in order to defend Lauren. She's lucky to have such great friends.

//end condescension, evilness, and "misinformation."
Teresa Basich

Seriously, Amy. No matter WHO you're talking to, have some compassion. No matter what you intended to convey, you come off as heartless and completely out of line, not just to Laura but to anyone who's struggled with unemployment. Since you've been there, you know that a little bit of understanding goes a long way.

Don't kick folks when they're down. That's rude and utterly unattractive.

You go, L. I know you're going to take the world by storm.
Ryan Knapp

Why or why not a post is useful is based on the person who writes it. This isn't a how-to post about how to get a job, it's written because she wanted to get her thoughts out on the situation.

The problems you describe above aren't reflected in Lauren's post in my opinion. While I'm sure you have some problems with first world problems, we live a first world life. Moreover, how we handle our problems is a personal choice and not everyone handles them the same.

It's good that you hustle (a quality that some don't have), but when bad things happen to me I take them personally and need time to recover and think about them before I can move on.
elysa

Amy I can't say that I've ever left a comment on a blog starting with "this post would have been more useful if...". That's the thing about blogging (and all social media for that fact) it's personal and we are all free to share whatever we like.
Amy McCarthy

Exactly. Just.....like....my.....comment?
jasonpkeith

Really? Congratulations on showing everyone who reads this post what "doesn't get it" looks like.
Sam Ogborn

You are so brave.

While I know it was important for you personally to write this post, you are indirectly speaking to everyone and words cannot explain the magnitude of people you'll be helping and how you'll be helping them by writing this.

I wholeheartedly agree with Beth on establishing what it is you want to do in a career beyond this post. Writing things down or making a list helps me establish in my mind what exactly it is that I want. I think this can be applied to any aspect of life. I don't think any post you'd ever write would scream "Hire Me" I think it would establish what you'd like to do and would indirectly connect you to the right people.

Aside from this post, I am proud to be learning so much from you everyday. Whether its us talking directly or it's something you tweet, I am very happy to have you in my life, you make me smile and laugh, you are a great mentor and friend and I hope to help you with whatever I can in the future.
Brad Marley

I admire your courage in the face of such uncertainty. I do.

If you're open to it, I'll connect with you on LinkedIn and keep an eye out for any open positions.
UKSF

Great blog post. Check out www.possibilitive.com - contact us for a guest blog spot.
JasMollica

Lauren,

I think the first step in getting through the frustration is doing what you did here... airing out what you feel. You are talented and passionate, two things all of us strive do be more of. For you, it seems to come naturally.

I don't have a doubt that this period of unemployment will be tough. But, my feeling is you will get through it and be stronger... and more knowledgeable for the future.

My best to you... now and for the future!
bethharte

Lauren, you're very strong for writing about your experiences. Being unemployed is never easy-- emotionally or financially.

Now, however, I think you need to get over being modest (or thinking it's trite) and tell people what it is you want in your next boss, next job, next employer. Let employers who might want to hire know what your strengths are, what you enjoy doing, etc. etc. etc.

I am here cheering for you!