Good News! Greetings everyone! I have been a member here for a few months now. I began my job search in April, after hearing confirmation to the rumours and whispers of restructuring within the company I currently work for. My position is being phased out by December, and I didn't want to wait until then, I was worried about finding myself in a desperate situation. Unemployment benefits, as many of you know, don't pay 100%of what you were making, and it doesn't last forever! Plus, I didn't want to inadvertently miss any good opportunities. I have sent my resume out countless times, filled out many, many, many applications. I did get a few callbacks, interviews, and a few offers-but nothing was a good fit. Since I still have a job, I figured better to look around now, when I can afford to be choosy. I ran through all my contacts, and recalled last year, a few months before the restructuring was confirmed, that I was offered a job by a local business owner. The offer was very tempting, but as I was very happy in my position then, I sent a polite email declining the offer, but thanking him for his time. I decided to send my resume over, along with an email explaining the situation, figuring I have nothing to lose! Well, a few days later, I got a call back. He explained they were looking to expand, and he was so glad to see my resume and email, since I have the exact skill set he needs! I went in to meet with him, it went incredibly well (beforehand, I was sure to pore over the company website and social media, as well as identify a few areas where my experience would be helpful, and I got some ideas for some new things I could organize and execute for him) I was very pleased with the offer I received a few days later which includes a reasonable schedule, a higher salary, and doing a job that I love to do. I am so glad I decided to cold call, they didn't have an ad out for an opening, but they were about to do so. It helps to be in the right place, at the right time of course, but it also really helps to always conduct yourself in a professional manner, keep a good list of current references, and keep adding to your skills, however you can. I was getting very discouraged right up until now-but I took a chance, and I'm going to be on to a new job in 2 weeks! So don't be afraid to send your resume out/contact businesses that may not have an ad out, you just never know! Some places hire through word of mouth, or connections through their present staff. Think about places local, perhaps a store that you love to shop in, or a restaurant you like to dine in, or anyplace you drive by and think to yourself, Hmmm...it might be nice to work there! Think about what you have to offer, and what the business might need, and how the two can meet. It's tough, sure, but you just have to hang in there and keep trying! Best of luck to everyone here-I sincerely hope you all find what you need, and also, get a chance to do something that will bring you joy.