Hi,

So many of you have been with my on my "journey" so to speak over the last year.........job loss, re-employment, then moving..........

After a few months, it was very clear that business was slowing down at my new job.  I started to look, but I spoke with the HR manager and he assured me that if something did happen, I would get some severance and a reference letter, etc.  They also had wanted me to start a new project shortly thereafter, so I thought there may be hope.  Then, the receptionist had surgery and I was covering her for 2-3 weeks.  In that role, you have to focus on being there all the time, meeting various peoples' requirements, etc. - I guess I didn't know what was going on behind the scenes.

On Monday, I was called in - they told us that that part of the business has been sold, and they offered me ONE WEEKS PAY, if I would sign a waiver stating no harassment, etc (apparently this is a standard clause for them).  I am trying to keep in mind that this is just business, but I felt very used in that they assured me a soft landing, having me cover reception, etc. I brought up the fact that I had discussed this with them a month prior (and had offered to take a lesser paying position in the company, to stay employed).  It was 2:30 in the afternoon and the only response I got (other than, how dare you), was to say they would also be paying me "until the end of the day".

My boss was also let go, but she had inside knowledge of what was happening, and has already secured herself another position.  I contacted the company to ask for my Record of Employment (I need this to complete a claim for employment insurance) and was told it would be mailed "asap" (there is actually a legal requirement in Canada to get this to a person within five business days).  I also asked for a reference letter and was told the company "does not give reference letters" and that I should seek out my former boss.

Ugghh........very difficult week........I know I have to look at this as positively as possible, but I really felt that I had a solid hold on the job market once again.  Starting over now.........I actually have a job interview this morning, but I'm not sure how much enthusiasm I can project. :(

Thanks for listening,

Mel