MaryB and the City

Group hug.

I’ve received an incredible amount of encouragement and advice from family, friends and former colleagues since my “position was eliminated” and now find myself as one of 15 million unemployed Americans. Some sentiments are poignant, some are hilarious. The last time I have personally experienced this kind of cohesive hug drenched in humanity was on 9/11. When it felt like the world was literally crumbling all around us, and everything we knew for sure wasn’t so sure anymore…but the outpouring of support literally took our breath away.

• Sis, sorry to hear the bad news. Keep your head up, have a stiff drink then get back out there. When times are tough, Thomsen’s get tougher. F* them, they don’t know what they are losing. You will get another job, just keep on applying and eventually the math will work out in your favor.

• You are way too talented not to get snatched up.

• Hang in there dear wonderful girl - this too will be history soon and you will have profited from experience. Easier said than done - my period of unemployment/transition is all too fresh. You do get through it and you will.

• I was just SHOCKED when I heard the news and so sorry for you having to deal with finding a new job in this sucky economy. You are amazing and have such great experience that I hope you’ll find a job bigger and better!

• Damnit. I am so sorry. At least it didn’t happen until after the economy turned. That means movement will start in business and hiring will start.

• Be patient—something will turn up. You’re doing all the right things, and you WILL make it. I have faith in you and your abilities, ma’am!

• Love ya and keep your head up, you’re too damn good to stay down long. I believe in you, always have!

• Enjoy the time you have now! It’s such a lousy time - I applied to a job last week and heard back that they’ve had more than 500 applicants. But the time is a gift, offers you some perspective and an opportunity to choose your direction.

• They owe you their blood sweat and tears.

• Don’t worry… everything will work out.

• I was shocked to hear you’re gone. So sorry! Move on and move up I say… It sounds like you have a big network at your disposal—I’m sure it won’t be long before you’re employed again. You’re smart and driven—a killer combination!

• I’m sooo sorry to hear about the news, you will be missed. I am sure you will land something more exciting soon!