XP: Laid off, if you work PT or retail, what do you do?

[claudiakishi]

I lost my job about 6 months ago and my unemployment has run out. I'd like to get something to make up at least for the unemployment while I still look for something FT. I have retail experience but not since 20 years ago. My background is communications/nonprofits. Does anyone here work retail or part-time somewhere and can share your experience? Or has anyone else been in the same boat and worked PT while looking for FT?

[Mushe]

I’m so sorry you’re in this spot. I don’t have experience, but didn’t want to read and not respond. Have you considered a temp agency too?

[claudiakishi]

Aug 13, 2019 14:14:10 GMT -5 Mushe said:

I’m so sorry you’re in this spot. I don’t have experience, but didn’t want to read and not respond. Have you considered a temp agency too?

Thank you. I am currently looking into temp work as well!

[fernweh]

Sorry you have to deal with this. I worked retail until about 3 years ago and H still does. I’m not sure what advice you are looking for.
I worked in the grocery industry and we had such a hard time help even our part timers could have 40 hours a week if they wanted them.
Keep in mind as the new hire you will work evenings/weekends/holidays.

One thing I would like to emphasis because I saw this happen multiple times. If there are certain days/times you are unavailable to work, be up front about it when you apply. As long as it isn’t extreme it likely won’t disqualify you and it looks worse if you apply as say you have open availability and then try to put in a bunch of restrictions after you are hired.

[samanthamkm]

I just got a job working in a chain clothing store. I had never worked retail before. I only work weekends currently. I make sure the fitting rooms are cleaned and at the end of the night I make sure sections look nice for the next day.

[mommin]

A couple of friends recently started working at Winco. They are open 24 hrs. so it gives them a lot of options for shifts. Not the fanciest version of retail but it pays fairly well and it hasn't been back breaking work for them. They both applied and were contacted with a time and location to come in for an interview along with a couple dozen other people. Simple interview and a job offer a couple days later.

[sadlebred]

I hope you find a FT job soon! This website lists a ton of part time jobs. I'm not sure if it will help or not, but I know a few people that have gotten P/T jobs using it.

www.simplyhired.com/

I worked in the grocery industry past college. It wasn't glamorous, but it got me through HS and college. They were really flexible with hours. Like others have said, let them know if there are any days/times you can't work on a weekly basis. We had to put our request for days off 2 weeks in advance. My local large chain grocery store has been after me to come work for them for years. It's nice to know it's there if I ever need to. I haven't ever worked as a server (I'm a huge klutz) or in a clothing store.