An urgent plea from a family on the brink...

[Essence]

I'm new here, and not to be harsh. Not an IM expert yet, however, one question, what happened in those two years? Didn't you learn traffic generation? copywriting?

I wasn't going to reply to any of these posts anymore, but I have to come out and say please, stop posting based on your assumptions about what is going on in my life.

People have assumed that I'm broke, that I'm ignorant, that I'm lazy, and more.

None of it is true. I'm not broke, I just have an unexpected and necessary expense that I don't know how to deal with. I'm not ignorant -- I know how to write copy, I know how to drive traffic with articles (as Ken Leatherman pointed out), I just learned the basics of CPA marketing, and I'm learning more every day. I'm damn sure not lazy. I work for StartRankingNow.com, I work freelance on Odesk, and I have long-term clients here -- and I'm being considered for a position at 1ArticleADay.com (thanks to Ken Leatherman again.)

On a side note, anyone who thinks that being unable to get a job in 2 years is a mark of laziness hasn't been paying attention. There are 19,000 other people in Washington State alone that are in my position. The recession is challenging lots of common perspectives on what employment even means.


But back to the point: people are reading threads from literally a year ago, and treating my situation now as though it's identical.

It's not.

At one point last year, I had a website that made money. I was thrilled that my investment in the War Room had paid off, and I wrote a WSO that showed other people how I made the money to get my website started, and pointed toward the techniques that I had used to get a functional website off the ground.

Then, the website mysteriously completely stopped bringing in any money, despite the fact that the visitors kept coming. I did my research, I read threads here about Clickbank scamming, and in the end, I decided that it wasn't worth trying to figure out what was wrong. I started looking into other methods of making money online, and wasted a bunch of money on WSOs that didn't work.

A couple of months went by, the money ran out, and with a little desperation, I posted a second WSO on the same topic as the first, but with techniques that worked for people that couldn't get paid by Associated Content. I knew that the process worked, even if my website had failed for reasons I was never able to determine, and I still stand behind that process.

The WSO made a little, but a couple of days after I posted it, I was told that my unemployment claim was going to be denied. I decide that I needed a mentor to help me with my IM efforts, and I had nothing else going for me except time, writing ability, and desire. I made a thread, and Michael Oksa answered. Michael Oksa is still my hero to this day, even though I didn't succeed to the degree that I would have wanted. I learned a lot about how to write copy, how to market a product, and how to article-market from him. The simple fact is, bills came due, and I had to do something that would make money NOW.

So, I started freelancing. I've been writing articles for a year or so, and it treats me well. I got confident enough a couple of months ago to post a WSO advertising my skills, and I've gotten a great response.

Then, my wife got a job! Miraculous! But our car broke down, and the only mechanic we've ever used quoted us $3750-ish for a new transmission. I panicked, I came here, and I started this thread within an hour of getting the news. The rest is history.


And now that I've explained myself in meticulous detail to all of you, if any of you want to continue to tell me that you're unhappy with me for some reason, feel free. I'm going to be working on solving my problem.

[GreatWebSuccess]

That tells me that you haven't shopped around for another quote or for another mechanic.

Originally Posted by Essence

But our car broke down, and the only mechanic we've ever used quoted us $3750-ish for a new transmission.

[chris_surfrider]

Ditch the ride, dude. Or at least pull insurance for now.

$4K is not worth it on a used car if you're in a pinch.

You can easily buy a GREAT, usable, functional car for $1K - $2K.

I recently sold my bimmer (replaced it with a porsche), but it was imported so I had almost a month of carless-ness.

So I found a $950 1992 Audi 200.

It's ugly as sin.

But it works great, good on gas, power everything, etc. Not a single problem with it.

I'm totally keeping it as a daily driver.

There is no need - right now - to lay out $4K on a transmission.

-Chris

[theimdude]

Originally Posted by Essence

A couple of months went by, the money ran out, and with a little desperation, I posted a second WSO on the same topic as the first, but with techniques that worked for people that couldn't get paid by Associated Content. I knew that the process worked, even if my website had failed for reasons I was never able to determine, and I still stand behind that process.

The WSO made a little, but a couple of days after I posted it, I was told that my unemployment claim was going to be denied.

Sorry dude you want to claim unemployment, and sell a WSO claiming people can be make money on a ongoing basis yet when you were selling it
" the money ran out, and with a little desperation"

I am sorry but I dont agree with this as the your WSO is misleading people big time and you should close those down. I for one after this thread will not believe or buy and WSO's in the future regarding methods to "make money" anymore

Unless the seller can show me his bank account.

I am getting a bit tired of all these WSO's being sold you can make this and that yet the owners "claim unemployment"

Well some good came from all this

"Check out this thread. It seems pretty doable $2.5k in 3 days.

My 3 Day $2500 Challenge Results & Method

Hope this helps."

I don't need to make 2.5k in 3 days but as far as I am concerned this guys method should work and if you do it over time you will succeed.

[Boricua]

If you can't make money consistently to pay your expenses, consider getting a full time job in something that pays decent income by the hour? Heck, if I did not had the couple of skills I've gathered over the couple years - in a similar position - I'd had flip some burgers at Wendy's and have family eat for free. More importantly, if I've to downgrade myself over money in this type of recession I'll do it if I ever were left out of options. Anytime.

Dude, just check my signature for a couple ideas. There's enough clients out there and room for more. It might not be a perfect example for you, but perhaps it gives you ideas? It's an excellent example of earning a reasonable amount of money in a very short amount of time to buy or pay whatever is that you need right now. Oh and indeed, don't let your ego or the past get in the way for earning money when it's required. If you want/need things right now and hate waiting just like I do, getting a little creative might do the job for you too if money is of a requirement for whatever is that you need or want now. If you can't find something in reasonable time, forget about income opportunities online until you've settle family first. Good stuff in this entire thread.

Best of luck Essence.

[Tina Golden]

Hamed - Some of this advice may be good but when you cut/paste an article into the forum, it is a wise idea to credit the actual author.

So, you are in a bind. Your rent is due and you don’t have the funds available to pay your landlord? What to do? Well, after praying about your next step the revelation you receive may be not what you had expected. Perhaps you were looking for a miracle instead perhaps God has shown you ways for you to work out your problem quickly and legally. Yes, there are many ways to make money that are honest and smart. Let’s take a look at some of them right now.

Ways to make money are perhaps much more numerous than you first thought:

Hold a garage sale: Chances are you have some things around your house that you no longer are in need of. If so, hang a sign out front and invite neighbors and “drive bys” to visit you. While you may not own a big ticket item that can garner you a nice return, a bunch of smaller items including clothes, bric-a-brac, books, etc. could push you over the top.

Ebay: Not everyone is fond of garage or yard sales. In addition, if you have a special item which you know could bring in more money if you could advertise it, consider eBay or another online auction site to sell what-have-you. EBay has proven to be one of the biggest ways to make money that there is today.

Bake, clean, or provide another service: Not everyone has the time or inclination to cook for themselves, pick up their dry cleaning, mow the lawn, clean, etc. You neighbors may be too busy to take care of their yard but would gladly pay someone they know such as you to do the work for them. Offer to organize their attic or garage and don’t be shy to charge them a decent rate. Perhaps in exchange for money they will offer to you whatever is in their garage of value. This can one of the ways to make money as you resell what they have online or in your next yard sale.

Online help: If you own a computer and have internet access, then this can be one of the ways to make money quickly and legally. Sometimes blog managers will pay for posters to add a few paragraphs of comments to their sites while others will be glad if you moderate their forums. Either way, if there is money involved you can raise cash that way too.

Watch the kids: Not everyone likes to babysit other children, but perhaps you are already “giving that service away” when your friends drop their children off to play with your kids. Let’s be smart about it: are you providing a play date or babysitting services? If the latter, start charging by the hour to make sure your hard work gets a return on the investment!

Yes, there are many ways to make money you hadn’t thought of in the past. Don’t borrow off of your credit card and don’t take out a loan you won’t be able to repay later. Chances are there is a service you can provide, an item you could sell, or something you can offer that will bring in money quickly. Are there many ways to make money? Yes! Find out what they are and step forward in faith today.

[Johnny Slater]

My only comment on any of this is those of you who are saying "go get a job, it's not really that hard" haven't tried to get a job in the last year or so. My wife lost her job 8 months ago and after applying for over 300 jobs in that time she still hasn't found work.

Not everyone can get a job flipping burgers, although that seems to be a common assumption. Low paying jobs do not hire people who had previous employment making way more money than they pay.

Take me for instance. I haven't been able to get a job in 8 years. Employers look at my employment record and see every job I have had since I turned 20 paid at least $100 a day and my last few jobs paid $250 a day. Most burger joints pay that a week so they wont even consider my application.

Just assuming that anyone can get a job just because they need one is very very far from reality. Expecially in the current econemy where more and more people are getting layed off each month, jobs are extremely hard to come by. For every available job there are hundreds of people applying for them. Employers will hire the ones who have lower expectations and lower expense needs because they don't want to put in time to train someone just to have them quit for a better paying job after a month.

I know many people feel strongly about their beliefs but please think a little before you make posts slaming someone for not having a job. Finding employment is a lot harder than some of you seem to think it is. Before firing off a post slamming people take a bit of time and find out what "over qualified" means. I've personally been given that as an excuse for not hiring me more times than I can count.

[TelegramSam]

Originally Posted by Johnny Slater

Take me for instance. I haven't been able to get a job in 8 years.

Wow!

Have you considered changing your resume a little?

You don't have to disclose earnings.

And if you say "I can't do that, it wouldn't be right", then just keep on starving if that makes you feel better.

I think most people are sensible enough on this thread to realise that getting a job isn't easy. But if you can't get a job in 2 or 8 years, well, frankly, that says it all.

Perhaps it also explains why their internet success is not where they want it to be.

Finding a job, just like being successful, starts with the right mental attitude/mindset.

Keep thinking that there aren't any jobs out there and guess what? You would be right.

Assume you will find a job 100% and guess what? You would be right.

Don't be a victim. It is totally a person's choice.

[dv8]

I know it has been posted numerous times already, but I haven't seen you reference it. If you have, my apologies.

$4,000 to get the trans fixed is WAY too much. Even if you have a "nicer" car. So you definitely need to get another estimate.

I have tons of experience in this department. I'm on my 4th trans in 6 years. My trans is one of the more expensive ones, T-56. Same one in Vipers and Corvettes.

Why am I telling you this, because even this trans isn't $4,000. Very close, but not $4,000. And that's for a brand new one.

I paid about $1,100 for a used one last year. Check craigslist, ebay, and any other site you can find. I found mine on a car forum. Then I paid $200 to have it installed.

Good luck with everything. I know these kind of things suck.


Oh yeah, your wife is working at a great place to get referrals. Tell her to start running her mouth about you and what you can do for local businesses. Try to speak at the next meeting.

Best of luck!

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Johnny Slater

My only comment on any of this is those of you who are saying "go get a job, it's not really that hard" haven't tried to get a job in the last year or so. My wife lost her job 8 months ago and after applying for over 300 jobs in that time she still hasn't found work.

Not everyone can get a job flipping burgers, although that seems to be a common assumption. Low paying jobs do not hire people who had previous employment making way more money than they pay.

Take me for instance. I haven't been able to get a job in 8 years. Employers look at my employment record and see every job I have had since I turned 20 paid at least $100 a day and my last few jobs paid $250 a day. Most burger joints pay that a week so they wont even consider my application.

Just assuming that anyone can get a job just because they need one is very very far from reality. Expecially in the current econemy where more and more people are getting layed off each month, jobs are extremely hard to come by. For every available job there are hundreds of people applying for them. Employers will hire the ones who have lower expectations and lower expense needs because they don't want to put in time to train someone just to have them quit for a better paying job after a month.

I know many people feel strongly about their beliefs but please think a little before you make posts slaming someone for not having a job. Finding employment is a lot harder than some of you seem to think it is. Before firing off a post slamming people take a bit of time and find out what "over qualified" means. I've personally been given that as an excuse for not hiring me more times than I can count.

This is what I have been trying to say. Its not as east for everyone to get a job even a low paying job for reasons you mentioned.

Dude how have you survived for so long? Your wife was working right? Its been 17 months for me and pretty much for as you stated. My last real job was paying me over $300 per day.

[Allen Graves]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

This is what I have been trying to say. Its not as east for everyone to get a job even a low paying job for reasons you mentioned.

Excuses!

OK, maybe its true, but if you keep using that information as an excuse, you will never be one of the folks who actually do fill all those positions I JUST saw available on Monster.com and CareerBuilder.

It only takes 2 years to get a nursing or therapist degree. The job boards are full of medical positions right now...as they will be in two years!

I'm just fed up with the lazy attitude that internet marketing seems to be infusing into most of our brains.

If IM doesn't work for you, then try another career. You don't HAVE to work from home in your pajamas.

I know the US government is handing out grants left and right for those who want to go to school to learn a career. If you are unemployed, you are practically guaranteed a free education. (I know, you're in Canada)

Its out there, you just have to want it. My best friend just got a job a couple of weeks ago at a call center. He had no experience and previously had higher paying positions. And guess what - he's getting a steady, somewhat reliable paycheck now...at least more reliable than IM tricklings.

Hey - didn't I say I was out? LOL

Allen

[AnneE]

Originally Posted by Essence

I wasn't going to reply to any of these posts anymore, but I have to come out and say please, stop posting based on your assumptions about what is going on in my life.

People have assumed that I'm broke, that I'm ignorant, that I'm lazy, and more.

... rest of explanation omitted from quote...

And now that I've explained myself in meticulous detail to all of you, if any of you want to continue to tell me that you're unhappy with me for some reason, feel free. I'm going to be working on solving my problem.

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

Teddy Roosevelt

Essence ... battle on. And to all who offered him guidance along the way. Thanks.

[Gail Sober]

For anyone who is having trouble getting a job because they're over qualified.

You are not selling yourself correctly.

If the employer thinks (as mentioned above) that they are going to spend money training you and that you will quit in two months as soon as you find a better job and/or that you are gunning for their job have already received some valuable information to use to your favor in your next interview.

It's up to YOU to explain to them how you could benefit them and their company.

You have to put down a list of your skills and figure out a way to MAKE them applicable to the position you are applying for. Almost EVERY skill is transferable in some way or another and even if not, any levels of responsibility you had, management responsibilities, etc.. definitely are.

You have to assure them that you're there to "start at the ground floor" and work your way up.

At the same time, you have to assure them that you aren't "gunning for their job". Most managers, especially in large organizations are trained to hire the best. It has been a long time problem that less compentent managers would hire people they didn't feel threatened by or that they felt weren't as smart as themselves.

HR has invested a lot of time and money over the years trying to convince these managers that the fastest way to the top is by building a rocketship of highly competent people and riding it to the top.

Let the manager know that you aren't after their job. You are there to make their life easier. You are used to working in conditions where you used your own initiative, saw the big picture, could self motivate, could lead by example, etc..

Let the manager know that you are fiercely loyal to those you work with and for and understand that the only way for you to move up is to help them further along their chosen career path. You will work as a team to achieve your goals.

Anyway, I won't drag this out forever but I did spend many, many years hiring and training people and I've ran across my fair share of over qualified people as well as under qualified people. Both had a realistic chance of getting hired depending on how they presented themselves.

I know the job markets are different across the country and around the world but I'm saying that interview skills are KEY to landing a job. Who is excited to work here, who has goals, who has a positive attitude, who is going to reflect the best on my business, who is going to be worth that investment of time and money.

Anybody struggling to find work right now should spend some time at the library or book store and read up on interviewing skills (the hiring managers side of the desk) to get an idea of what they're looking for in a candidate.

Gail

[rwb24]

My suggestion is to put all your efforts into finding a job outside of IM for awhile and then build your IM business. Of course getting transportation is an immediate need.

Off subject a little but worth saying...make sure to take time for your spouse, she must be a rock for you so protect that marriage. I know from first hand experience.
God bless you,
Robert

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Gail Sober

For anyone who is having trouble getting a job because they're over qualified.

You are not selling yourself correctly.

If the employer thinks (as mentioned above) that they are going to spend money training you and that you will quit in two months as soon as you find a better job and/or that you are gunning for their job have already received some valuable information to use to your favor in your next interview.

It's up to YOU to explain to them how you could benefit them and their company.

You have to put down a list of your skills and figure out a way to MAKE them applicable to the position you are applying for. Almost EVERY skill is transferable in some way or another and even if not, any levels of responsibility you had, management responsibilities, etc.. definitely are.

You have to assure them that you're there to "start at the ground floor" and work your way up.

At the same time, you have to assure them that you aren't "gunning for their job". Most managers, especially in large organizations are trained to hire the best. It has been a long time problem that less compentent managers would hire people they didn't feel threatened by or that they felt weren't as smart as themselves.

HR has invested a lot of time and money over the years trying to convince these managers that the fastest way to the top is by building a rocketship of highly competent people and riding it to the top.

Let the manager know that you aren't after their job. You are there to make their life easier. You are used to working in conditions where you used your own initiative, saw the big picture, could self motivate, could lead by example, etc..

Let the manager know that you are fiercely loyal to those you work with and for and understand that the only way for you to move up is to help them further along their chosen career path. You will work as a team to achieve your goals.

Anyway, I won't drag this out forever but I did spend many, many years hiring and training people and I've ran across my fair share of over qualified people as well as under qualified people. Both had a realistic chance of getting hired depending on how they presented themselves.

I know the job markets are different across the country and around the world but I'm saying that interview skills are KEY to landing a job. Who is excited to work here, who has goals, who has a positive attitude, who is going to reflect the best on my business, who is going to be worth that investment of time and money.

Anybody struggling to find work right now should spend some time at the library or book store and read up on interviewing skills (the hiring managers side of the desk) to get an idea of what they're looking for in a candidate.

Gail

Gail,

The reality of things is what you are saying really does not hold water for some. And the Hiring comes down to the department head or person you are working for not really HR.

I Once travel over an hour to a job spent 3 hours interviewing and taking tests only to be told at the end that the job was beneath me. WTF I wasted 5 hours of my time and gas and the job was only paying 13K laess then what I had been making and the benefits were good and I was willing to move after the probation period.

SO so much for seling myself and assuring I was not gunning for anyones job. To be honest what are the chances I will stay at a job paying me $10 when a job comes along and say pays me 60-70K like I was making before. Managers and companies know that.

I have to look out for myself and if an opportunity presents itself that pays me more you bet your sweet apple I am gone. So will anyone else.

Its not like I am going form an $11/Hr job to now making $9-10/hr.

You tell me that if you were lucky to get hired say making $10/hr and 2 months later a job presented itself that paid your $20/Hr you would not leave..... You know you would and so do they....

I can only lie so much on my resume, heck I even have 2 version that I use depending on what I am applying but lets be realistic here. Last 10 years I have run companies as either their assistant controller or controller making up to 70K and you think someone knowing that is going to hire me, maybe train me and I will leave in 2 -3 months or whenever something better comes along.

Only way I am going to get a job paying $10 is something totally out of my field. Yes I could get a day labor job but I am a single dad to an 8 yr old that I am sole person who picks him up from school and picks him up and those jobs you can't just pick up and go.

I applied for bookkeeping jobs paying 35-45K which for sure I am over qualified and they would be getting more for their money, guess what they wont hire me. They don't care if I have bills or a family to feed. Its about the bottom line.

So yes some of us have a harder time finding work.

[Jeremy Kelsall]

John,

Not trying to sound like an ass here...

BUT

If you know that is your issue, dumb yourself down a bit. Don't tell them that you were the exec VP for chrysler and now want to flip burgers.

It sounds like YOU KNOW what they want to hear...

You just refuse to give them what they want.

I made well into 6 figures last year and could still go to the gas station on the corner and present myself in a way that they would hire me for their $8 an hour job if I needed to.

Them: So, what have you been doing for the last 2 years

ME: Working on the internet, but obviously that didn't work out

Originally Posted by John Cabral

Gail,

Thye reality of things is what you are saying really does not hold water for some.

I Once travel over an hour to a job spent 3 hours interviewing and taking tests only to be told at the end that the job was beneath me. WTF I wasted 5 hours of my time and gas and the job was only paying 13K laess then what I had been making and the benefits were good and I was willing to move after the probation period.

SO so much for seling myself and assuring I was not gunning for anyones job. To be honest what are the chances I will stay at a job paying me $10 when a job comes along and say pays me 60-70K like I was making before. Managers and companies know that.

I have to look out for myself and if an opportunity presents itself that pays me more you bet your sweet apple I am gone. So will anyone else.

Its not like I am going form an $11/Hr job to now making $9-10/hr.

You tell me that if you were lucky to get hired say making $10/hr and 2 months later a job presented itself that paid your $20/Hr you would not leave..... You know you would and so do they....

I can only lie so much on my resume, heck I even have 2 version that I use depending on what I am applying but lets be realistic here. Last 10 years I have run companies as either their assistant controller or controller making up to 70K and you think someone knowing that is going to hire me, maybe train me and I will leave in 2 -3 months or whenever something better comes along.

Only way I am going to get a job paying $10 is something totally out of my field. Yes I could get a day labor job but I am a single dad to an 8 yr old that I am sole person who picks him up from school and picks him up and those jobs you can't just pick up and go.

I applied for bookkeeping jobs paying 35-45K which for sure I am over qualified and they would be getting more for their money, guess what they wont hire me. They don't care if I have bills or a family to feed. Its about the bottom line.

So yes some of us have a harder time finding work.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Allen Graves

Excuses!

OK, maybe its true, but if you keep using that information as an excuse, you will never be one of the folks who actually do fill all those positions I JUST saw available on Monster.com and CareerBuilder.

It only takes 2 years to get a nursing or therapist degree. The job boards are full of medical positions right now...as they will be in two years!

I'm just fed up with the lazy attitude that internet marketing seems to be infusing into most of our brains.

If IM doesn't work for you, then try another career. You don't HAVE to work from home in your pajamas.

I know the US government is handing out grants left and right for those who want to go to school to learn a career. If you are unemployed, you are practically guaranteed a free education. (I know, you're in Canada)

Its out there, you just have to want it. My best friend just got a job a couple of weeks ago at a call center. He had no experience and previously had higher paying positions. And guess what - he's getting a steady, somewhat reliable paycheck now...at least more reliable than IM tricklings.

Hey - didn't I say I was out? LOL

Allen

Now see Allen you just pissed me off with your statements. You have not walked in my shoes or anyones elses for that matter so don't presume to say its excuses.

You haven't sent out 1000 resumes had every head hunter looking only to have a few interviews and no job.

I have had companies ask me when can you start and then tell me a few days later they found someone better suited.

When I did find a job 8 months after losing my original one I had it for 2 months as they wanted me to work late and because of distance and my son I could not.

Then 7 months later my friend got me a job paying 35K and I busted my behind there working almost 60 hr weeks and only getting paid for 40 and beacuse things are bad here people started moving out in droves and very few were moving in and I was replaced by a friend of the new manager.

Yes I will admit I have been down in the dumps and haven't tried as hard this time around because I know what I am up against. I am not 20 or 30 either.

I have been looking into going back to school and was not aware our US goverment was willing to pay for it. I learned something. But I am not all that foun dof the Same government that caused the crap we are in along with banks.

Secondly get your facts straight, I never claimed to be an IM'er nor have I said I wanted to work in my pajama's not that I would turm it down if I ever made it that far.

And where did you surmise I was in Canada? Since when is South Florida considered Canada.

I hate pompous %$# people who assume to know it all. I am usually very laid back but comments like these just get under my skin....

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Jeremy Kelsall

John,

Not trying to sound like an ass here...

Try a little bit less. I hate when people assume to know all the variables to whats going on with someone and come on out with the it's so easy to find a job. For some yes for other no.

I have friends with Masters who can't get a job paying 9-10 bucks an hours...

[Jeremy Kelsall]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

Try a little bit less. I hate when people assume to know all the variables to whats going on with someone and come on out with the it's so easy to find a job. For some yes for other no.

I have friends with Masters who can't get a job paying 9-10 bucks an hours...

Every post you make in this thread is an excuse...and you just proved it.

So, I say...whatever!

Enjoy Unemployment.

Jeremy

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Johnny Slater

My only comment on any of this is those of you who are saying "go get a job, it's not really that hard" haven't tried to get a job in the last year or so. My wife lost her job 8 months ago and after applying for over 300 jobs in that time she still hasn't found work.

Not everyone can get a job flipping burgers, although that seems to be a common assumption. Low paying jobs do not hire people who had previous employment making way more money than they pay.

Take me for instance. I haven't been able to get a job in 8 years. Employers look at my employment record and see every job I have had since I turned 20 paid at least $100 a day and my last few jobs paid $250 a day. Most burger joints pay that a week so they wont even consider my application.

Just assuming that anyone can get a job just because they need one is very very far from reality. Expecially in the current econemy where more and more people are getting layed off each month, jobs are extremely hard to come by. For every available job there are hundreds of people applying for them. Employers will hire the ones who have lower expectations and lower expense needs because they don't want to put in time to train someone just to have them quit for a better paying job after a month.

I know many people feel strongly about their beliefs but please think a little before you make posts slaming someone for not having a job. Finding employment is a lot harder than some of you seem to think it is. Before firing off a post slamming people take a bit of time and find out what "over qualified" means. I've personally been given that as an excuse for not hiring me more times than I can count.

I agree with you. Some people don't seem to be living in the same reality.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Jeremy Kelsall

Every post you make in this thread is an excuse...and you just proved it.

So, I say...whatever!

Enjoy Unemployment.

Jeremy

Dude you don't know crap about me and I have not made any excuses nor am I here asking for your help. I just don't like people who assume to know it all. I am talking from my experience and what I have had to deal with how pompous of you to assume I am making excuses or want to be unemployed.

In my book you are an ass and not being one. Whatever.

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by TelegramSam

I haven't bothered to read this thread except the OP, so forgive me if this has already been said:

1) There is no excuse for not finding some kind of job in two years. Any kind of job would put food on the table and make sure your family doesn't starve. To do otherwise is very irresponsible and lazy.

I am not trying to sound harsh, just realistic. You need a wake up call.

Sam

I apologise to everyone reasonable person here, but this is a load of absolute crap. Maybe you're the one who needs a wake up call to reality.

I tried to get a job for over two years and, even with all my qualifications (and I have a few) I couldn't find any work.

The fact is there are so few jobs about relative to the numbers of people looking that the companies can pick and choose, up to a point.

And more often than not, out of two choices they will tend to choose someone who is younger.

How do I know this?

Because I've worked in industry for well over 20 years and know exactly what it's like.

So please, get off you high bloody horse and show some friggin' compassion when people are in trouble.

If you're going to criticise, make sure it's for the right reasons.

[Gail Sober]

John, Next time they say you're over-qualified, tell them "Yes, but you are an under achiever so it balances".

(that's a joke, btw!!)

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Gail Sober

John, Next time they say you're over-qualified, tell them "Yes, but you are an under achiever so it balances".

(that's a joke, btw!!)

Gail you made me laugh. Will try that one. I will tell you I was floored when the VP of that company looked at my resume and told me that the position was beneath me. WTF who's he to say it's beneath me or above me.

In reality it was pretty close to what I had been doing just not the title and I don't care about titles.

[AmyBrown]

John - Yet some people are getting jobs and are starting successful businesses.

I recommend the book "Put More Cash in Your Wallet" by Loral Langemeier. It's a quick read and you should be able to read it and even do the exercises at the bookstore if you have to. If nothing else it might get you excited about the possibilities again.

[Jeremy Kelsall]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

Dude you don't know crap about me and I have not made any excuses nor am I here asking for your help. I just don't like people who assume to know it all. I am talking from my experience and what I have had to deal with how pompous of you to assume I am making excuses or want to be unemployed.

In my book you are an ass and not being one. Whatever.

No excuses?? lol

Every single time someone makes a post you have an excuse..

your over qualified

You can't work those hours

You have a degree

Your friend can't find a job

blah

blah

blah

John, you are no more over qualified than I am and I'm telling you right now, that I could leave my office now and have a job by 5PM today..that is 5 hours from now.

I'm not saying it is that easy for everyone...I understand everyone has a different background and a different story, but again - Every single thread that has been posted about finding a job in this thread has been met by you with an EXCUSE. Maybe you can take a couple minutes and reread your posts and point one out to me that didn't contain either an excuse or a whoaisme?

Is it tough out there? ABSOLUTELY - Nobody is doubting that. But, it is irritating to hear someone in one breath complain about how hard it is to find a job and in the next make excuses about why they can't do it.

I'll pick up the classified in your area from online - Pretend I am you - And have 3 interviews scheduled by the end of the day. There is NO reason you can't do the same thing...

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by Jeremy Kelsall

No excuses?? lol

Every single time someone makes a post you have an excuse..

your over qualified

You can't work those hours

You have a degree

Your friend can't find a job

blah

blah

blah

John, you are no more over qualified than I am and I'm telling you right now, that I could leave my office now and have a job by 5PM today..that is 5 hours from now.

I'm not saying it is that easy for everyone...I understand everyone has a different background and a different story, but again - Every single thread that has been posted about finding a job in this thread has been met by you with an EXCUSE. Maybe you can take a couple minutes and reread your posts and point one out to me that didn't contain either an excuse or a whoaisme?

Is it tough out there? ABSOLUTELY - Nobody is doubting that. But, it is irritating to hear someone in one breath complain about how hard it is to find a job and in the next make excuses about why they can't do it.

I'll pick up the classified in your area from online - Pretend I am you - And have 3 interviews scheduled by the end of the day. There is NO reason you can't do the same thing...

John,

Jeremy has a point with this. What I would suggest is, before knocking back any of the advice, try it first. And then, if it doesn't work your gripe would be legitimate. Otherwise, unfortunately, you do come across as someone who's just making excuses.

True, people don't know your situation, but they can only go by what they say and what you say here. Look at it from their point of view. How would you feel if it was the other way around.

Take their advice and give it a shot first.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

I apologise to everyone reasonable person here, but this is a load of absolute crap. Maybe you're the one who needs a wake up call to reality.

I tried to get a job for over two years and, even with all my qualifications (and I have a few) I couldn't find any work.

The fact is there are so few jobs about relative to the numbers of people looking that the companies can pick and choose, up to a point.

And more often than not, out of two choices they will tend to choose someone who is younger.

How do I know this?

Because I've worked in industry for well over 20 years and know exactly what it's like.

So please, get off you high bloody horse and show some friggin' compassion when people are in trouble.

If you're going to criticize, make sure it's for the right reasons.

Couldn't have said it any better.... if it was all that easy to find a job then we would not have the highest unemployment rate since 1945.

The number of jobs are far less than those looking for jobs and as you said companies are taking advantage of this too.

I once applied for an office accounting manager position for a small company and was told they had 1000 applicants apply for the position.

You bet I did not get the job....

[Roy Carter]

Sorry to hear of your troubles.

Here is an article I wrote that may help...

http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Quick,-Easy-$2,000-in-Your-Pocket-by-the-Weekend&id=1423937

Hope it does.

Good luck.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

John,

Jeremy has a point with this. What I would suggest is, before knocking back any of the advice, try it first. And then, if it doesn't work your gripe would be legitimate. Otherwise, unfortunately, you do come across as someone who's just making excuses.

True, people don't know your situation, but they can only go by what they say and what you say here. Look at it from their point of view. How would you feel if it was the other way around.

Take their advice and give it a shot first.

Again another person assuming to know what I have or have not done. Do you know that when I first lost my job 2 years ago that I sent out over 1000 resumes or that I had just about every friggin agency looking for me. Do you?

Yes I have turned down jobs not going to lie but do you know why? Beacuse they were to far or hours would not work for me. Why? Because I have a small kid am a full-time single dad who has to do it all so I could not take those jobs due to that fact alone. Should I get rid of my son? Or is that just another excuse...

Come on yes there are excuses and some make them and some don't but don't think that all of us not working is because we are lazy asses who don't want to work and looking to make it big in IM.

This is the part that gets to me. Maybe too many have tried to take advantage of the good natured warriors but lets not go assuming that everyone not working is making excuses or lazy. And as I have said I have not come here asking for a handout.

[GoGetta]

Roy,

I have seen something similar to your article, awesome entrepreneuruial thinking. If you are stuck in a catch financially follow something like that article!

Awesome

GoGetta

[Roy Carter]

GoGetta

Thanks for that. Yeah, I did post it on this forum and it was very well received but can't find the link.

The article is called A-Quick,-Easy-$2,000-in-Your-Pocket-by-the-Weekend! and I think the post was titled something similar. Anyway the link in my post above will get to the article on EZA for anyone who wants it.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Jeremy Kelsall

No excuses?? lol

Every single time someone makes a post you have an excuse..

your over qualified

You can't work those hours

You have a degree

Your friend can't find a job

blah

blah

blah

John, you are no more over qualified than I am and I'm telling you right now, that I could leave my office now and have a job by 5PM today..that is 5 hours from now.

I'm not saying it is that easy for everyone...I understand everyone has a different background and a different story, but again - Every single thread that has been posted about finding a job in this thread has been met by you with an EXCUSE. Maybe you can take a couple minutes and reread your posts and point one out to me that didn't contain either an excuse or a whoaisme?

Is it tough out there? ABSOLUTELY - Nobody is doubting that. But, it is irritating to hear someone in one breath complain about how hard it is to find a job and in the next make excuses about why they can't do it.

I'll pick up the classified in your area from online - Pretend I am you - And have 3 interviews scheduled by the end of the day. There is NO reason you can't do the same thing...

How is what I said an excuse. If I can't work the hours because I have an obligation to pick my son up from after care by a certain time before they call child services on me or the job is too far to allow me to pick up my son.

Do you know if I have been looking at the classified or what I am doing? Do you know how many resumes I have send out? That I am registered with over 20 agencies... No that's my point.

You have no clue what I am doing and I don't personally need to tell you or anyone for that matter, that's my personal business. When I come to you for a handout than you can talk.

I am not making excuses and have only pointed out whats been happening to me. Just because you can get 3 interviews in one day that other can too.

[AmyBrown]

Here's a link to the thread Roy posted previously: A Quick $2,000 by the Weekend...

I remember the thread and looking at my ideas notebook I spent some time brainstorming related ideas. Thanks for the reminder!

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

Again another person assuming to know what I have or have not done. Do you know that when I first lost my job 2 years ago that I sent out over 1000 resumes or that I had just about every friggin agency looking for me. Do you?

Yes I have turned down jobs not going to lie but do you know why? Beacuse they were to far or hours would not work for me. Why? Because I have a small kid am a full-time single dad who has to do it all so I could not take those jobs due to that fact alone. Should I get rid of my son? Or is that just another excuse...

Come on yes there are excuses and some make them and some don't but don't think that all of us not working is because we are lazy asses who don't want to work and looking to make it big in IM.

This is the part that gets to me. Maybe too many have tried to take advantage of the good natured warriors but lets not go assuming that everyone not working is making excuses or lazy. And as I have said I have not come here asking for a handout.

John,

That's not what I meant at all, so apologies if it sounded that way. You'll see from my previous post I'm not about judging.

What I meant was, if you try things others have told you about and say so, you have more ammunition to back up what you say. That way no-one can criticise you when you show them the facts.

It's about you having some back-up for whatever you say. Does that make sense?

[TelegramSam]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

I apologise to everyone reasonable person here, but this is a load of absolute crap. Maybe you're the one who needs a wake up call to reality.

I tried to get a job for over two years and, even with all my qualifications (and I have a few) I couldn't find any work.

The fact is there are so few jobs about relative to the numbers of people looking that the companies can pick and choose, up to a point.

And more often than not, out of two choices they will tend to choose someone who is younger.

How do I know this?

Because I've worked in industry for well over 20 years and know exactly what it's like.

So please, get off you high bloody horse and show some friggin' compassion when people are in trouble.

If you're going to criticise, make sure it's for the right reasons.

If you believe the things I wrote are crap, then that is up to you.

I have never claimed welfare and never been out of a job for more than a couple of weeks.

I don't know how old you are, but I too have lived through a number of recessions, faced redundancy, bankrupt companies, short working weeks and god knows what in my time.

But NEVER have I gone into agreement about how bad it all is.

I used to go knocking on doors, telephoning and even working for nothing on a trial basis, to get the ball rolling.

I never complained when no one came begging me to work for them.

If you think I write my "firm/harsh" words to poke fun at people or to make them seem like idiots, then you deeply misunderstand me as a person.

But, the people I like to help the most in life are those people that also help themselves!

Sam

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

How is what I said an excuse. If I can't work the hours because I have an obligation to pick my son up from after care by a certain time before they call child services on me or the job is too far to allow me to pick up my son.

Do you know if I have been looking at the classified or what I am doing? Do you know how many resumes I have send out? That I am registered with over 20 agencies... No that's my point.

You have no clue what I am doing and I don't personally need to tell you or anyone for that matter, that's my personal business. When I come to you for a handout than you can talk.

I am not making excuses and have only pointed out whats been happening to me. Just because you can get 3 interviews in one day that other can too.

This is the part I'm talking about. When you ask people for advice then you do, indeed, have an obligation to let people know so they know the advice they're giving out is for not for nothing.

When you tell people what you're doing, you're telling them that, yes, you are taking heed of what they are saying. It's really just courtesy.

[Roy Carter]

Originally Posted by AmyBrown

Here's a link to the thread Roy posted previously: A Quick $2,000 by the Weekend...

I remember the thread and looking at my ideas notebook I spent some time brainstorming related ideas. Thanks for the reminder!

Thanks for finding it again Amy and glad you liked it.

Jon (OP): Read it. I think it may help you or at least give you some ideas to try something similar.

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by TelegramSam

If you believe the things I wrote are crap, then that is up to you.

I have never claimed welfare and never been out of a job for more than a couple of weeks.

I don't know how old you are, but I too have lived through a number of recessions, faced redundancy, bankrupt companies, short working weeks and god knows what in my time.

But NEVER have I gone into agreement about how bad it all is.

I used to go knocking on doors, telephoning and even working for nothing on a trial basis, to get the ball rolling.

I never complained when no one came begging me to work for them.

If you think I write my "firm/harsh" words to poke fun at people or to make them seem like idiots, then you deeply misunderstand me as a person.

But, the people I like to help the most in life are those people that also help themselves!

Sam

My point is, Sam, you should not be judging others' situations based on your own. Not everyone's situations and circumstances are the same.

I have never claimed welfare for more than a couple of weeks, either, but I have been actively looking for work just so I can have a steady income whenever I don't have a job to do or when I don't feel like writing.

And I've been looking for over two years, without any luck.

In fact, just last week I sent out over 40 applications with no joy.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by MarkAndrews IMCopywriting

Bahhhhhh humbug.

I started off my business 3 years ago,
now if under even normal circumstances
80% of businesses fail in their first 12-24
months, why the dickens am I flying in the
face of all conventional wisdom and some
3 years later, I'm still going and keeping
my head above water?

This business was started up from a position
of unemployment and the business plan has
had to change somewhat to adapt to the
economic times that we are presently living
in.

Now, why am I still in business 3 years later
despite having started up with no finance
or anymoney to my name?

I'll tell you for nothing exactly why that is.

It's being prepared to change to the economic
situation around me and working non-stop
100 hour plus weeks, week in, week out
non-stop for months upon months on end and
I'm no spring chicken either.

You just got to do what you got to do if you
want to not only survive this recession but
come through it smiling.

The business, despite these incredibly tough
financial times is not in debt, I am not in debt,
I've lived through 3 major recessions in my
personal business life, never been bankrupt
and to date total amount owed in money to
anyone is no more than $300 and all with
no qualifications to my name and ...

I've done that in the worst recession on
record for decades.

Now, what separates you John from me?

How badly do you want work?

How badly do you want money?

What are you prepared to do to take your
share in life and hold your head up high?

You want it badly enough, you'll soon come
up with something to shift your thinking away
from a cannot do this or that attitude to a
completely can-do attitude.

Think about it please. And enjoy life.

Best!


Mark Andrews...

Very good points Mark.

First off I just wanted to point out that it sometimes is not as easy for everyone depending on their circumstances.

Secondly I did not ask for help or say that I am broke or that I need some idea to make XXXX amount in 2 days.

Thirdly I don't consider myself an IM'er nor am I holding off looking for a job because I expect to become an IM success overnight. Hell I have no clue what I am doing in that area and am trying to learn again as things have changed since I became a waarior over a decade ago.

Just simply pointing out that it may not be as easy as 123 you have a job for some and that does not mean we are making excuses.

There are some good sound advice on here.

[TelegramSam]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

My point is, Sam, you should not be judging others' situations based on your own. Not everyone's situations and circumstances are the same.

I have never claimed welfare for more than a couple of weeks, either, but I have been actively looking for work just so I can have a steady income whenever I don't have a job to do or when I don't feel like writing.

And I've been looking for over two years, without any luck.

In fact, just last week I sent out over 40 applications with no joy.

Ok, but my point is that you do whatever it takes. If sending out 40 applications gets no joy then you do something else.

Now whether that means sending out 400, 4000 or knocking on doors, or asking friends or past associates, or working for nothing on a trial basis or whatever else is needed, is up to you. One basically does whatever it takes until he or she digs themselves out of the hole.

Give up and you just made it slightly easier for someone else.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

This is the part I'm talking about. When you ask people for advice then you do, indeed, have an obligation to let people know so they know the advice they're giving out is for not for nothing.

When you tell people what you're doing, you're telling them that, yes, you are taking heed of what they are saying. It's really just courtesy.

Yes I agree that if I was asking for help I should tell all but I am not and what I detest is when someone who hasn't a clue to what I am doing or going through makes assumptions that I am either lazy or making excuses....

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by TelegramSam

Ok, but my point is that you do whatever it takes. If sending out 40 applications gets no joy then you do something else.

Now whether that means sending out 400, 4000 or knocking on doors, or asking friends or past associates, or working for nothing on a trial basis or whatever else is needed, is up to you. One basically does whatever it takes until he or she digs themselves out of the hole.

Give up and you just made it slightly easier for someone else.

Giving up should never be an option until we are 6 ft. under.

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by TelegramSam

Ok, but my point is that you do whatever it takes. If sending out 40 applications gets no joy then you do something else.

Now whether that means sending out 400, 4000 or knocking on doors, or asking friends or past associates, or working for nothing on a trial basis or whatever else is needed, is up to you. One basically does whatever it takes until he or she digs themselves out of the hole.

Give up and you just made it slightly easier for someone else.

What if I told you I've been doing all of that, and am still doing all of that?

It's just not the same for everyone. In the past I've worked for nothing just to get experience.

[Rezbi]

Originally Posted by John Cabral

Yes I agree that if I was asking for help I should tell all but I am not and what I detest is when someone who hasn't a clue to what I am doing or going through makes assumptions that I am either lazy or making excuses....

I agree. That's the point I was making in my first post.

[JakeDaly]

Go to crazedlist.org and search the most popular cities for writing jobs. Send personalized e-mails to each potential client, describing exactly how you can satisfy their project, while providing examples of your work. I guarantee you if you send out only 20 e-mails you'd get at least a couple of article writing jobs. Most are willing to pay more than the $5 you're currently offering your services for, too.

[Profit-smart]

Take that $20 and buy a classified ad in your local newspaper.

Headline:

Cash for clunkers!
Miss the deadline?
Get up to $300 for your clunker today!
Working vehicles only, please.

[TelegramSam]

Originally Posted by Rezbi

What if I told you I've been doing all of that, and am still doing all of that?

I would say, good on you for not giving up.

Now, keep on going.

But get clever. Come up with a bright idea about getting a job and give it a go.

Figure out another way.

Get your resume/cv checked out. Does it look ok?

Ring the person who you want to work for.

Chat with them. Find out about the company. Find something that you think you could do that would help them. Investigate their competition and then then ring the company and tell them that you know how the competition is doing something and how you might be able to help them.

Get creative.

Even if it is stacking shelves, go vist 10 stores and see which ones stack the shelves the best and learn from it before you approach a company to get a shelf stacking job.

Tell them and show them your stacking ideas...

Etc... etc...

Sam

[andrew_writes]

Originally Posted by AnneE

Essence ... battle on. And to all who offered him guidance along the way. Thanks.

Right on, I'm with helping no matter what everyone else believes.

[John Cabral]

Originally Posted by MarkAndrews IMCopywriting

Life only begins when you're 6' under,
just not as we know it.

Good point LOL