OT: Yes! I am employed!, damn layoffs! Options

Finally, after 1 year of sitting around doing nothing, I get a job. That means I have money to spend on toys. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mueba.gif)

[anthony]

Jkeyzer, you'd probably be crazy to move to Silicon Valley and look for a job right now. If you want a job there, get a local PO Box and voice mail for applying for jobs. My understanding is that non-local candidates aren't even getting a look unless they have highly specialized skills.

My advice to the newly unemployed is that it's worse out there than you think especially if you are a techie. If your budget can't take a 6 to 18 month layoff then start your 8 hour a day job search ASAP, take the first job you get offered even if it's a temp/part-time job outside of your field as long it pays the bills, and be prepared for a large pay cut (up to 50%).

I was laid off from Lucent Technologies in November. I've been looking since. I think I just got a break and a friend and former co-worker will hire me starting July 1st. (Keep your fingers crossed, guys!)

In the meantime if anyone knows about a Windows NT/2000/XP sys admin, helpdesk guru, or junior Solaris admin I'm your man. Drop me a line.