unemployment story

ode to the unemployed

Over- and under- qualified, and everything in between,
If I enter my job history one more time, I might just break my screen.

I’ve cleaned behind the dryer, I’ve scoured every floor,
I’ve cleaned in places that my broom has never seen before.

I’ve shredded stacks of paper that I no longer need,
I’ve written snazzy cover letters that impress no one – Indeed!

My refrigerator glistens, my plants no longer dying,
no matter how long it takes, I will not give up trying!

This “ode to the unemployed” is written by Michelle Baker, who lost her job after the company she worked for filed bankruptcy. After 120 applications, four interviews, and one second round interview. Despite the her degree from a major business school and seven years of experience, she is still unemployed.  Read more unemployment stories by here.

By Nicole Pyles

I started this blog in 2012 when I got let go of my first job out of college. Since then, I've continued talking about my job search experience, office politics, unemployment stories written by others, movies I've enjoyed, products I've loved, and more. This blog is about work, life, and everything else in between.

2 thoughts on “An Ode to the Unemployed by Michelle Baker”
  1. I feel for you. My kids – perhaps a wee bit younger and with less experience, although smart and ambitious – are also having trouble getting jobs in general, but more specifically getting jobs they are interested in and feel they can grow into. We are in a lousy economic situation, which will not end soon I fear, but I also (being annoyingly positively) believe that it’s happening for a reason and eventually, we will understand why. I’m glad you are writing about the experience, I believe you are offering an important service and forum for discussion. Keep writing!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.