So, here’s the thing: I’m new to Austin, and I’m looking for a job. Given that it’s a week before Xmas, however, it’s a bit of a challenge. People are going on vacation, not responding to emails, or flat-our phishing for personal info so as to scam you (thanks a lot, Craigslist!). It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there, people, and I’m bringing this question to you in all sincerity:
"Don't Disturb! Writer At Work" (photo by Flickr user amypalko)
Where do you look for work?
I’m a freelance writer and editor by trade, so I tend to go after jobs posted on Craigslist, a slew of writing and editing job boards, and I also regularly turn to a few weekly newsletters to get the 411. Today I happened to discover a little invention by the name of Jobfox, which I’d never heard of. I spent at least an hour setting the thing up, answering all its in-depth questions, getting my résumé tweaked to perfection… and it had only one measly job offer for me. In pharmeceuticals, where I have zero experience. Which wouldn’t have even been such a problem, except for the fact that they wanted someone with at least 5 years of experience. Um, thanks for nothing?
So I’m begging you, people, if you’ve got job-hunting skills, know a headhunter, run a business, or have seen a help-wanted sign recently and think I may just be a match, do get in touch. I’m pretty open-minded, although I’m not really keen on slinging fast food at this stage in the game. Just a personal preference, though, and by no means any slight against the fabulous people who keep Popeye’s and Mickey-D’s rollin’. (Honestly, you’re fabulous. And I will write you all some amazing résumés if you’re looking to get out. Cheap!)
If you really want to know what it is I do for a living, or what kind of wild and crazy experience I’ve got, you can check out my LinkedIn profile. I’ve got 8 years of work experience, starting in New York City in 2001, so it’s not like I’m a stranger to the world of work. I’ve done everything from reception (phones, filing and faxing) to audio transcription to web design and maintenance to editing semantics textbooks. I’ve got the skills to pay the bills, and the bills are rolling in, so if you’ve got any thoughts, sing out!
Thank you in advance, and happy holidays! I hope you’re taking a much-needed vacation, rather than struggling to find a job like me, but for those in the same boat, remember this: TAKE NO PRISONERS! YOU ROCK THE CASBAH!
P.S. I just sent in my submission to Broken Pencil’s Indie Writers Deathmatch III. Cross your fingers and wish me luck, for my short story will give ‘em all an ass-whuppin’ they’ll not soon forget! If you’ve got a short story (1,000-3,000 words) and $20 (CAN), feel free to gimme a run for my money. If all else fails, you’ll get a free subscription to Broken Pencil, the magazine of zine culture and the independent arts. HOT!
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