HR Processional Underpaid
After working for a company for 11 years, being told you are one of there most valuable employees, always goes above and beyond and to find out that people coming in and being there for 1 to 2 years maybe last makes more then year and even as of today still you are the most lowest paid employee. When brought to previous boss, recent boss, and VP was told my weak points are I don't reach out often, but never once mentioned this to me in any of my reviews. Reviews were always exceed expectations, no goals and when I did reach goals still finding more excuses to not compensate me well. I was even when I approached appropriate people that if I was happy find a new job. This came from someone who handles employee relations. Always introduced as the most knowledgeable employee with most experience on team and to always come to for guidance. How do you even think that this is ok?? I have been looking for a job for well over 2 years now, and going on interviews and still have not found a good job. I have an Associates Degree, no gap in work history, been at same job now going on 11 years, Manager for 7 years PT while working my full-time and still no hope in finding a better job. I pray everyday god bless me with a better opportunity because the pay is so low for me to take care 3 kids with one kid just graduating sometimes i feel like giving up. This can't be life when employers don't want to hire good quality workers. I have even paid hundreds of dollars to get my resume professionally done and still no job yet.
Hi Alexis Pettus - I am so sorry to hear that things have been difficult for you lately and that you lost your job. Please check out these suggestions to help you get back on your feet!
1- Take care of YOU Your health is important so don’t go without health coverage! Speak to your employer about extending your health insurance benefits for up to 18 months under COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) if it's available. You have 60 days after your coverage lapses to opt-in or start shopping for your own policy [here] (https://www.healthcare.gov/) Your new employment status allows for you to actively enroll even if it's not open enrollment time.
2- Apply for unemployment benefits To receive unemployment benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment program in the state where you worked as soon as possible! Don't delay because this process can take quite a long time. The government-sponsored site, [CareerOneStop] (https://www.careeronestop.org/), has details on unemployment benefits in each state. You also can do a quick Google search to locate your local Department of Labor and unemployment office and apply there as well.
3- Revisit your budget There’s no way of knowing how long you will be unemployed and because your income is now significantly less, it's important to plan for the future. Revisit your accounts and see where you stand. Cut down on your expenses and spend only on what is necessary for the time being (think food, gas, etc.). Put together a list of all the bills you currently pay such as car payments, student loans, rent, mortgage, medical bills, etc. that are non-negotiable. Anything that isn’t essential cancel it for now and focus on the more important bills. If you feel you are unable to pay your mortgage reach out to your bank ASAP and alert them to the problem as well as your landlord if you rent.
4- Stay in touch Don’t be afraid to connect with your coworkers/managers, now is the time. Ask them for their contact information and if they would consider being a reference in the near future. Stick to anyone you worked closely with who can attest to your skills on the job. If they ask you, make sure to offer them the same courtesy.
5- Be positive Right now is a difficult time but remaining positive will help see you through this! Surround yourself with loved ones who will support and guide you and talk to them about how you feel. Stay strong and look to the future. As the saying goes, "This too shall pass." Check out these additional [things you can do] (https://www.jobcase.com/conversations/2eb03c47-fbc7-59c3-b959-f386f714f79f) to feel better.
6- Apply It goes without saying that once you lose a job you need to replace it with another. So revamp that resume! Be sure to add any new skills and experiences you gained over your employment. Then when you are ready, search and apply to jobs in your area [here] (https://www.jobcase.com/jobs/search).
Wishing you the best during this difficult time.