Pity Party Time Everyone! I just chilled the Champagne!
Yeah. Tonight I’m having the bubbly for a Pity Party!
I got fired!
The past two positions I held were positions in which my administrative skills were used to their fullest advantage. However, both companies that I worked for closed their doors. It doesn’t hurt so much when a company folds or cuts back. You know that job loss is through no fault of your own.
But when your employer calls you into their office, closes the door and sits across from you, not behind their desk, and starts talking in a monotone, like Miss Clavel of the Madeline books states, “Something is not right!”
The second my new, and I might add, rather nice, boss took me into her office and closed the door behind me, I knew something was not right!
My new job seemed to be going really well. I seemed to be getting along well with my co-workers and liked them. I had a good feeling that we were going to be a stellar team. I caught onto the administrative tasks very easily. I had no issue learning their computer programs too! Actually, it was fun!
After two weeks of being told I was doing a great job, I felt good. I had, in my memory, a good deal of the tour memorized. I was looking forward to assisting as a tour guide! I even did a great job of driving the tram on my practice runs! Helping with the tours would be a great side task of my administrative duties! And it would allow me to be the center of attention. We all know that I love attention!
In my mind, I imagined myself to be the best administrative assistant of all time! I would try to enter every single contact onto a listing for future mail merges. I would organize my entire area so that everything could be within reach. I would be able to compose fantastic correspondence! But most of all, I would be a part of an exuberant and exciting team!
Um….I guess I was being delusional. Again!
I didn’t “pass” the task of phone sales and bookings.
I’m not used to “sales”. I’m not like THIS guy, but I’m just not sure of myself after just a couple of days! I may be a quick learner for many things, but I needed more phone time!
After a couple of days of phone inquiries and many callers’ questions about the many offerings and pricings that were offered, it was felt I couldn’t quite get the “hang” of the phone sales tasks. I was “let go”. I was “fired”.
Like that bad puzzle piece, that’s me! I’m just not a good fit for ANYTHING!
But instead, was told I wasn’t the right “fit”. I suppose employers need to be politically correct and use phrases that are gentle and kind–such as one not being the right fit. But when you get down to it–it’s being fired!
Hopefully, my next fortune cookie will give me better news!
It is a humbling experience, though to lose a job because of “fit”.
I’m NOT that person who gets fired! “Fired” isn’t part of my track record. Not being a good “fit” is a verbal slap across the face for me. And it stings. And it hurts. And it is emotionally crippling!
Just what do employers truly seek in their staff? My work ethic is great. I arrived early, never made a mad dash for the door and didn’t question working on Saturday. I didn’t even question the large drop in salary. Medical benefits weren’t offered, but I have my Obamacare, so it was cool. I did what I had to do in order to be re-employed. Most days I worked through lunch.
It’s weird. I’m not angry; I’m just sad and perplexed! And I am sad because I really liked the woman I worked for. A lot!
It scares me to think that I was not a good “fit” because I was not able to grasp a task after a couple of days. Is it me? Just where do I belong? Am I that much of a loser because I was let go after two weeks?
I’ll tell you, when I arrived home after being given the heave-ho, I was extremely composed. I was greeted by my little buddy, Chippy. I went upstairs to change. Bonaparte was out with clients so I had the house to myself.
It was awful–having to tell my Bonaparte that I got fired! OMG. I was so ashamed. I got upset when I told Oona too! I cannot even bring myself to tell my sons yet! Waaaaaa!
I called the unemployment offices and as soon as Debbie answered, I started crying and sobbing like a baby who needed a change! That’s when I lost it! Oh my god, I felt like such an ass! But I needed to get that out! The cry made me feel much better!
Every once in a while, you can come across an empathetic soul. Empathy came in the form of Debbie from PA Unemployment. She comforted me, and told me everything would be fine. She said what is done is done so I don’t need to make my eyes red or my nose runny. She explained she was there to help me and would assist me in reinstating my unemployment benefits.
Well, on the positive side, I met my original personal goal of becoming employed before my original unemployment benefits ran out. Now I have a few more weeks of additional benefits.
AND, it’s a good thing I didn’t cancel my hair appointment for this coming Saturday with Adam!
Bonaparte and I will be having a nice trip to France too.
So I’ll channel my inner Scarlett O’Hara and say “After all, tomorrow is another day!”
Scarlett and I are a lot alike! After all, tomorrow ISs another day to start to think about me!
Hey. It’s all good—right? Sure is–now I can get back to my favorite thing–writing in my blog and having fun. And playing with makeup. And packing for my trip!
Oh. And note to self—don’t look for any more positions on Craigslist!
I’m happy I have my blog readers to make me feel I’m worth something! Thanks! XOXOXOXO!
Once again, it’s time to get back to unemployment status and to listen to my favorite unemployment song. Assedic! EEz French–so eet sounz much better!
This is so sad. I absolutely love your blog and look forward to reading it. You will find something better. Tonia
Aww, Tonia, I’m wiping the tears from my eyes! You’re really making me feel better! Thank you for your encouragement!!XOXO!
Oh, Catherine! I’m so sorry it didn’t work out. I enjoy your blog so much, and fingers and toes there’s something awesome in your future for you.
Thanks so much for wishing me awesome in my future. I’m starting to feel a bit better with the sun coming out from the clouds today. I think my spirit and willingness are brightening up! XOXOXOXOX
So sorry to hear your news. Just think that there is something better suited for you out there and you will find it. From reading your entries, I can’t imagine that you won’t stop until you reach your goal. Can’t beat the baby boomer work ethic! You will prevail and they will be lucky to have you
and your many talents. I’m retiring after 30 years of teaching Latin this year.. After all those years of grading, let me assure you that it’s apparent that you are going to achieve that A.+ You are articulate and enthusiastic and a hard worker with tons of life experiences. Really look forward to reading what comes next in your blog!
Thanks! Mine of ny brothers is now working on getting my fat ass down to San Antonio to visit him! I’m in the mood for a trip to The Alamo! Our little Choppy is the happiest doggie right now! He hasn’t keft my side since I arrived home! I’m continuing to feel the love! XOXO!!!
This is a crazy world , workplace and jobs are so different than years ago. You tried, you gave 100%, not a whole lot else you can do. It sucks, it is sad, but just know you gave it your all. A fav of mine is the serenity prayer, regarding accepting….. and the wisdom to know the difference. Hope you cheer up soon. P.S. I love reading your blog.
Hi June. Boy, you’re telling me that jobs are different from years ago! My best job of all time was when I worked at the old Morgan Guaranty Trust Company down on Wall Street. We were treated like family there! Great, GREAT benefits–just amazing. Those days are over and it is sad. You spend a good part of your day at an office and should be treated like family–not disposable. Gone are stellar benefits and gone is trust! I definitely am accepting what happened and am making the best of things for now. Move onward and upward..right? I have to say, just the fact you love reading my blog makes me cheerful in itself! Thanks! XOXOXOXO!
Catherine, I’m so sorry. Consider yourself hugged! You are *not* a loser! You did everything you could — you couldn’t have possibly done any more. Your nice boss may have been squeezed by her superiors, something you couldn’t have known — or changed.
Hang in there. Things will look up soon! Keep blogging. We love you!
Susan, thanks for the hugs! Hugs make me feel good…and I’m trying so hard to not have that “loser” mentality right now. I swear someone had to say something to my boss lady to have her tell me it wasn’t a good fit. But you know what? It’s done and over with. I’m in blogging mode now..and I’m glad to have readers like you who are so supportive! Thanks! XOXOXOXO
Catherine I’ve been reading your blogs! What I have to say bout job! One door opens and this one closes!mfor A very good reason.. You will see. It crushes your self esteem but it’s so you can pursue something that’s going to be much better. Don’t let it crush you……loyal be fine.. I had a car accident may 2 nd and I’m a emotional mess. I’m ok just fractured some ribs and hurt my hand a little. No biggie but I flipped my suv over and totaled it. 3 accidents in 5 an a half years …I’m a basket case. That’s why I don’t really post to much when I, like this.. Pray for cathy, and I’m praying for you.. I love you cathy and still hope to see you and Debbie in the city one day……xoxoxoxo Ang
Angie–OMG. I cannot believe you were in a car accident. Where were you??? Was it on the Southern State? Well, it really doesn’t matter WHERE it was, I’m just glad you’re ok. I’m definitely praying for you sweetie. I’m hoping your hand heals up real quickly because you are the greatest hair stylist on Long Island and we all know that our big Long Island hair needs to be kept best by a Long Islander!!! The ribs–ouch! That hurts so much and I’m sure now everything makes you laugh because that’s what happens when you fracture ribs!!! Please don’t be a basket case, Ang. I love you too and hope to see you some time this year. XOXOXOXOXOXOX! Hugs and lots of kisses, Me.
I’m so sorry that this happened to you! Two weeks isn’t enough time so maybe it had nothing to do with you and everything to do with something on their part. Keep your chin up, the right thing for you is right around the corner…coming soon! I’ve been in this situation a few times, and soon after, a much better position landed right in front of me. Keep the faith!
Thanks Lori! My chin is definitely up and I’m more confident that something better will come my way! XOXOXO!
think at your holidays and no more at this sad experience !!! en route pour la France !!! we are with you !!!
Bonjour Nathalie! Merci mon ami! Je ne suis pas plus triste! Je suis heureux! (I’m brushing up on my French! Next week!!!!!!! Ohlalalalala! So happy I’ll be in Paris!) Thank you so much for your support! XOXOX Bisou!
Well I’m speechless. Just speechless, what fools. You brought to them a great work ethic, dependability, and most valuable of all, kindness and a wonderful sense of humor. Fools. And if B had a sense of something off, it’s been proven. Not to diminish what a blow being told you aren’t a good fit (please!), but it wasn’t meant to be. They were not a good fit. So blog away till something right comes along and take care. 💅
Hi Jean, Thanks so much for your support! Yeah–I am sure I will find another position where I’ll definitely be a good fit! In the meantime, I just gotta keep on writing. And blogging. And enjoying my free time! XOXOXOXO
Hi Jean, Thanks so much for your support! Yeah–I am sure I will find another position where I’ll definitely be a good fit! In the meantime, I just gotta keep on writing. And blogging. And enjoying my free time! XOXOXOXO