Work Slowdown Has Single Woman Scared for the Future

Dear Ellie:

I have had my own media company for the past 15 years and am now finding it very hard to get any new contracts. I am actually running out of money and do not have any resources left for my retirement. I am single, in my mid-50s, don’t have any children, and am getting frightened. The economy is very bad in the area in which I live. What immediate steps should I take? Debra
 
Dear Debra:

I am hearing from more and more women who find themselves in the same situation that you describe. However, knowing that others are also hurting is no solace. It sounds like it is definitely time for you to take action. Here are a few basic questions that you must answer:

• Have you applied for unemployment insurance? If not, do so.
• Have you applied for jobs, even out of your field, in which you could use some of your skills? If not, do so. Look for job listings on the Internet and in the newspapers, especially local papers, that are associated with film, video, marketing, advertising, writing, and areas like that.
• Have you searched the municipal, county, and state job listings? If not, do so.
• Have you filled out paperwork for public agency jobs with the city, county, state, and federal governments? Some of the best benefits are in government jobs. It is hard to get into these positions, but first you must fill out the paperwork and take various tests. Use the time you now have to do this.
• Have you visited the work centers, usually run by the state or the county? Do that, look at the various postings, and sign up for a group.
• Have you visited the local community college and met with a career counselor? Ask in the Student Services office if they do career assessments for local residents. If they don’t, ask for a referral to a local person who does career assessments. It sounds like it’s time to re-inventory your skills, needs, and interests.
• Have you joined local groups where you could network and get a sense of what’s going on in your community? If not, start with the Chamber of Commerce and talk to people about employment. Most jobs are found through word of mouth.

Please write back again and let me know if you take any of the above steps and what the results are. As you know, this is a difficult time to get a job. It is also a difficult time for small businesses.
 
You may have to trade off your long-term dreams for some short-term rewards. The most important thing is for you to take action on your own behalf. Remaining passive will lead to depression and discouragement. I’m glad that you wrote to me. That is a first step! Ellie

By Elinor Miller Greenberg, EdD
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