Job advice?

RondackHiker

So I got bad job news today. My company hasn't had new contracts come in and can't afford to bring me back from maternity leave. They're too small to follow FMLA.

So my options are extending my leave and hoping they get a new contract soon, and being able to job hunt with no gap.

Or I can take the lay off and get unemployment. The money would be nice, but I know it's easier to find a job while employed.

What would you do?

taggiecb

Why is it easier to find a job while employed?

Helenahhandbasket

If it were me, and we could make due with unemployment and my H's salary-- I would take the lay off.

I find it harder to job search while employed, at least logistically?

Helenahhandbasket

Also, sorry about the job-- that's crappy.

wiggyslilsis

I would do the layoff and get unemployment. I know a gap in employment can be a problem but I think if you get a chance to explain the situation (ML and no room to come back) then it won't be a problem.

RondackHiker

laceyjean1 said:

Why is it easier to find a job while employed?

I have no idea. That's what people say--that you're more likely to be hired if you're already employed.

ASmallWonder

Well, I think that adage is only true to a degree.  If you can explain why you're not currently working and it's not your doing, I think that makes it a moot point, kwim?  What employers don't like to see is someone who willingly left a job they (presumably) needed because it raises a lot of questions.

I'm sorry to hear about your job though.  That blows

RondackHiker

fredalina said:

I didn't think you'd worked there a year anyway. Sorry about that; it totally sucks. It depends on how fast I thought I could get a job. If I can get a new one in a month or two I would stay employed, otherwise take the layoff.

I have no idea how long it'll take me.

I've actually been here three years, but just transitioned to work from home last year.

angelashly

I would take the layoff. These days companies are a lot more understanding of layoff gaps.

Plus also what @TheEmpireNeedsYou‌ said. Will they bring you back if they get a contract?