Word on the street has it that if you aren't employed, don't bother to apply. As a 25 year veteran of the mortgage industry, and one of the expendable (as of Nov '08), I'd like to ask a question or twenty of the clueless Senators who voted against extended unemployment benefits.
Where is my desk?
You want me to work for my income? Fine!
How about I come work for YOU!
See, there are no jobs left in the remnants of the mortgage industry. We lost at least a couple hundred thousand positions in the meltdown that will probably never reappear.
Try to find a job in another field, you say?
Easier said than done.
First, in order for someone to appreciate my skills, they have to understand the mortgage industry. Can YOU tell me what a mortgage processor or closer actually does? What knowledge we possess, training we've received, or abilities required to excel?
No?
Then, how the hell am I supposed to convey that in a one-page resume that reads like a death march and, if I'm lucky, a 30 minute interview with someone who's as clueless as you are. And expect to be hired.
Let's say I get lucky and am hired. Chances are my pay will be substantially less because I'm on the bottom rung again. Staring over. Therein lies problem number two. Will my pay cover my mortgage and other necessities? Will I be able to afford healthcare benefits - if they even offer them? This would nice considering I'm 52 and haven't had coverage for the last 5 years. Especially dental, since I've already lost 2 teeth. I'm just glad they were back teeth and it doesn't show (much) when I smile.
Oh, and problem number three is tucked in that last paragraph. I'm over 50. To that 20-something doing the hiring, I'm old. They don't say it out loud, but you can see it and hear it in the dismissive demeanor. I'm wasting their time. I'm 'over-qualified'.
So, Senators, what would you say if I took matters into my own hands. Showed some creativity and initiative? Get myself off 'fun-employment'? That's what you've said with your vote, correct?
Okay, then, we've got a deal. I'll be there Monday morning at 9 sharp.
All you have left to tell me is:
Which way to my desk?