| | It's taken me awhile to decide to write this post. I don't know if it is embarrassment, a desire to avoid questions or just a combination of both. Whatever my reasons, it's safe to say that I dread dealing with the problem and wish that I could ignore it. Out with it, I guess...as of last Tuesday I have joined the ranks of the unemployed.
The HSO ran into some major financial problems. We failed to meet projected ticketing income for our first three concerts in addition to poor budget spending by some departments. That left us $35,000 behind (only 3 concerts into the season), a cash flow difference of $250,000 from 07-08 and with 74% of our marketing budget spent. Even though none of these problems were my fault, guess whose position was created last? That's right, mine. The position I held was created 8 months prior to my hiring date meaning the position itself had a life of 16 months...compared to the 35 years some of the other positions have been around.
I admit I have been worried about my job since our opening weekend. I've kept tabs on the economy, I've noticed the spending trends in Huntsville and I knew we were getting hit pretty badly. I just thought I'd have more time. I was sure they'd keep me around for at least half of the season. Now I'm job searching for the second time since graduation, and I admit I feel a bit like a failure. It doesn't matter that it's not my fault, it still feels like somehow I could've stopped it.
I'm in a city with a surplus of jobs, jobs which I am completely unqualified for. All the arts/culture organizations are struggling. The economy is so bad that administrative positions are being cut. I refuse to sell something or work at a restaurant unless it's my last resort. Maybe I'll be less prideful when December rolls around and I'm still out of a job...
This is why I was acting a bit weird at Shelley's wedding and it is the reason I might be a bit distant during Homecoming. To be honest, I really don't want to discuss it. If someone asks me how work is going, I'll probably just lie and say "everything's great" and change the subject. Besides, I don't want to think about my unemployed status when I could be partying it up with my friends!
I know this post sounds all "woe is me," but I swear I'm doing ok. I'm a bit depressed, but nothing major. I still have a great guy, fabulous friends and a supportive family. My mom has even offered to pay me to come home and clean the house! Hey, it beats flipping burgers!
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| | Posted 10/23/2008 11:58 AM - 23 Views - 2 eProps - 1 Comment
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