Being a contingent worker (temp for hire)

Finding a full time job is challenging in this economy in spite of all the wonderful news articles informing us of the market rebounds in recent months.  Finding a full time and exciting job is even tougher!  As I peruse job listings in search of my dream job I've come across temporary opportunities.  Now, who would think of taking a short term opportunity that only lasts 3 or 4 months?  I used to think that, but again there are lots of folks with interesting circumstances that would raise their hand in a New York second to be considered for such an opportunity.

I'm one of those folks now.  I love the idea of trying on a company for 3-4 months.  It meets all my basic expectations--it generates a revenue stream and most importantly exposes me to a different industry if not a different world.  Let's face it--no one ever said you had to stay home and wait while the opportunity of your life came by.  Why not have some fun to kill the time before that great opportunity comes by?

But don't go crazy signing up with every temp agency in town.  Interview them---sure they will be interviewing you, but take notice on how they return your phone calls, their preferred mode of communication, and most importantly take note on how they are seen in your industry.  Are they reliable? Are they personable?  All these factors count because this will also predict the success of the temp opportunities they will have for you.

Being in the HR industry I looked around...and just like I wouldn't go to Mexico for a hamburger....or go to Germany for a bowl of spaghetti...I'm not going to sign up with a financial, accounting, or administrative staffing firm for hot HR leads.  I chose HR Solutions.  I loved the people there.  Personable, candid, and very professional.  They found me a couple of assignments, and I'm currently their HR Solution for one of their clients that just experienced a maternity leave in their HR Department. The experience has been delightful so far and I love the time spent while I'm in waiting mode for my dream job.  It helps that I'm doing what I love to do---making the world a better place--one HR activity at a time!

Who said you couldn't have fun while you're waiting for your dream-boat to arrive?

Unemployment appeals

Time is a luxury even though I often say I have more time than money!  I have been really busy these last few weeks and I feel that I may be neglecting my blog.  So remember that unemployment claim I made several weeks ago?  I am now appealing the decision.  Obviously the decision was unfavorable for me, but keep in mind that the decision was expected.

If you read the news you will quickly realize that the EDD (Unemployment claims processing unit) is very busy and probably is running behind.  Patience in processing an appeal is the key to a successful appeal.  If you don't like their decision you can always appeal, but as with anything if it's worth doing--then let's do it 100% right the first time.

I appealed my EDD declined claim because I firmly believe I have a case that needs to be re-examined.  I wrote a letter, completed the appeal request form mailed to me, and I continue to certify the weeks I believe I am entitled to per my claim starting on 1/28/2012.  So let me tell you when you send off that appeal notice, make sure that the EDD sends you those weeks of unemployment certifications to you.  You must certify your eligibility for those weeks while your appeal is being processed.  If you don't you could win the appeal, but be paid no benefits for missing the deadlines on those certifications.

The certifications are those remittance notices reflecting that you did not work during the dates shown on the notice.  Fill in the boxes (no check marks) and mail those back within the timeline given to make sure you don't lose out on any paid benefits once your appeal is squared away.

Honesty is the best policy--and organizing all your information in a chronicle fashion is the best.  I had an attorney buddy review my information, and he gave a few pointers which I carried through in stride.  But remember patience is the key.  I am now in week 3 of a waiting game waiting to hear for when my appeal will take place.  The employer has 20 says from the date I announce my intent to appeal to submit information before I can be granted an appeal day.  Luckily--these days I have patience and I have time.

I'll keep you updated and share more particulars with you once the case is decided.  I believe in CA and I will be at peace with whatever decision is made at the EDD Appeals department.