I haven’t really talked about this publicly, but after I left my last job, things got really tight before I got a new one. I went 10 months without a paycheck and with very little contracting work. I have a family of 6, and we depleted all our non-retirement savings and used credit cards for bills.
Things are okay now. We’re living frugally, paying off debt, eating at home, saving up, and letting the coffers refill. I just can’t imagine how people that don’t have the same privilege, family support, work experience, or professional network are getting by.
I felt like I needed to say this out loud because a lot of people I’ve talked to, especially those with less experience, are putting on a facade of success so they don’t come across desperate to a professional network they desperately need for work.
I’m confident things will turn around eventually. Design and engineering continue to grow in relevance. But it’s a tough time in the industry, probably more so than I’ve seen in the 20+ years I’ve been at it.
- If you’re experiencing massive success right now, good for you! Please don’t strut.
- If you’re a recruiter or hiring manager, be respectful of the people you engage. Have the decency to be honest and responsive. Please don’t ghost.
- If you’re struggling and need help right now, let me know. I don’t have much to offer at the moment, but I’ll do everything I can to help. Please don’t despair.
