Thursday, September 4, 2008

LETTERS FROM STEVO...It's the economy stupid!


So I returned to work on Tuesday after a nice Labor Day weekend hanging out with Ma Busch and Big Dave, when, that afternoon, our Area VP flew in unannounced and came to my office and closed the door. He noted my Tennessee Vols football helmet and I started cracking jokes about their debacle of a game from the previous night, but he wasn't laughing...I can usually make this guy laugh so I got a little worried at this point. We sat down and he proceeded to tell me that the company is restructuring it's territory and that there was no longer a need for my services because of where I am located. I was shocked but not surprised. Business has been down quite a bit this year and for the last few months I had kept this scenario in the back of my mind. The company I work for has never done lay offs ever! What does that tell you about the state of the economy! So, my last day is Sept. 12. I was offered a severance package that includes keeping a company car for a month, after which, we'll need to buy a car. I haven't owned a car in 4 years! Amy and I immediately went into damage control mode thinking of what things we can cut out of the budget. Fortunately, Amy has a great job so we aren't in any dire straits.
Now that the shock, sad, angry phases have already passed, I'm in acceptance mode and am already looking for work. In fact, I've already got an interview lined up for Friday! One nice thing about HR is that you can work in any industry! Do you honestly think I know how to rent a car? I feel bad for ops people who have been laid off, especially those who have been with the company for many years because car rental is all they know! So now I'm spending my last days updating my resume and looking for jobs. I've asked my boss to write me a letter of defamation...EERRRR...recommendation, to which she has graciously agreed. We'll see what pans out. Who knows, perhaps I get into another career path altogether! That is a lot harder to do...I can probably find something in HR a lot quicker. If it comes down to it, I'll do whatever it takes...even flipping burgers??? My philosophy is such that whether you are a housewife or househusband or a CEO (ok, maybe not a CEO, or a politician for that matter!) there is nobility in all work!

7 comments:

Gorge Us Family said...

Dan & I were super sorry to hear this news. It totally sucks. Good luck at your interview!

If worse comes to worse, there is a couple spare rooms in a lovely double wide in Washington. You are always welcome to relocate here!

The Ravsten's said...

Dang it...stupid car rentals. I guess if I went and rented a car today, that wouldn't help much would it? I wish you success and low stress with all of this.

Nataluscious said...

Awesome attitude - and bummer about the job (though I guess it was kind of coming, huh?). This whole economy makes me nervous. But I like your comments about work, and agree. What matters most is your attitude about what life hands you - the rest is gravy.

Good luck! We'll be praying for a speedy and exciting return to the work world.

Jen said...

Stupid economy. No worries, you will find something in no time.

Renee said...

Dang...that sucks. I guess a car rental hook-up for my upcoming trip to Colorado is out of the question??

Good luck on the interview!! Looks like you have options even if it doesn't pan out. I hear there's a huge demand for male escorts in Denver now...you'll have no trouble finding a gig.

CraigT said...

Dude,
I was tired of you outearning me anyway! Now we will be on a level playing field. Just kidding-You have a great attitude and will definitely land on your feet!

Emily Shafenberg said...

Pretty Sad when my dad is putting you both on the same playing field. I don't think you have it that bad. You are awesome and the male escort service should pan out.