Unemployment Question

I have an appt to meet with unemployment next week to discuss my job pursuit.

I have to be honest. I was not expecting to be laid off and I was not prepared. It happened back in June - I didn't have my resume because i was working for 20 years in the same job. They were downsizing and my dept moved to Brooklyn so I really had no choice.

In any event, I have two dd's (7 & 5). I had them enrolled in summer camp but with losing my job, we couldn't afford to send them ($4,000) for the summer). So we decided we'd live off my severance and I'd take care of the girls for the summer and I'd focus on job search in Sept.

So now, I have this appt next week and I don'td know what to say to unemployment. I'm sure they don't want to hear my sob story about my child care issues and not expecting to be laid off.

If anyone has any experience on how to deal with unemployment, can you let me know? I now have my resume complete, I've networked with long island companies but I'm not really sure what to expect next week and I want to be prepared. Thanks.

Re: Unemployment Question

It's really not a big deal. I have been to 2 or 3. Longest it has been is 1 hr. You have to go though or they can suspend benefits. Bring ur resume and they will look it over and ask what type of jobs you have been looking for and sign you up for a ny job bank emails.

Re: Unemployment Question

A friend was on unemployment and went a few times before she found a job. The meetings are meant more to help you out in your search rather than check up and discourage you. She found out that she was able to receive vouchers for courses (she was in IT) which would allow her to receive certifications to add to her resume. I am sure everything will be fine.

Re: Unemployment Question

what you're fearing is "the unknown". it's not as bad as you think. it's really not.

i'm sorry to hear about your being laid off. jobs seem to be becoming even more scarce. scary times.

sending you much luck.

Re: Unemployment Question

Thanks everyone!