Today is only my fourth day living again in the Pacific Northwest, but it has been a super productive day. Part of this is due to the fact that M helped me get out and about, directing me to possible job opportunities.
But let me cut to the chase, times have changed. THEY HAVE REALLY CHANGED. Gone are the days when I could walk into a restaurant with a big smile on my face and be hired on the spot. Okay, so I'm sure there are a few restaurants out there like that, but for the most part, they hand you a card with a website address and you have to apply online. What a bunch of craziness!
All through my twenties (admittedly a more lucrative economical time in our country) I had no problem landing a job. I landed plenty of them, and it was usually just by saying hi, sitting at the bar, and telling the manager I was willing to work my ass off, had total availability, and being a little more engaging than usual. I can't even remember all the places I worked waiting tables- O'Charley's, Rio Bravo, Santa Fe, V's, Margarita's, Jordan Pond House, Applebee's, Cooker, TGIF's, Ruby Tuesday, Cracker Barrel... you get the drift.
Since I am now living in a new area and a bit unsure of my direction, I've decided to check out the restaurant scene in Portland/Vancouver. And let me just be direct and say, I think all this online stuff is a bunch of expletives.
That's why I also am leery of corporations in general. I like the small places with a hint of familiarity and a focus on knowing a person for who they are in person.
Today I managed to apply in person (application filled out and turned in) to four places, I picked up one application, and got online information about three places. I applied to Starbucks since they are everywhere, and I was able to put my name in at five Starbucks through their savvy online system. Starbucks got it right. They offer a simple application process online and connect you easily to other possible locations.
I am already filled with much more hope than I felt in Maine as jobs are much more plentiful and abundant out here.
Tonight an old friend is driving from Seattle to visit. We will have the evening to catch up and another fun day of hanging out tomorrow.
I am very excited to find a job! So far, I am drawn most to Little Italy which is a cozy little restaurant in downtown Vancouver where I can serve and wear all black. I love Italian food- maybe a big part of the reason- but they were also a simple paper application.
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