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Off Topic Forums => Off Topic Forum => Topic started by: Cliff on August 30, 2006, 05:09:30 pm

Title: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on August 30, 2006, 05:09:30 pm
I've decided to quit my job.  I don't know what I'll do or where I'll land, but I'm hoping things will be okay for me.  It's time for me to go.  Well it's been time, but somehow I just stayed around getting more and more comfortable with the no-change, no-risk taking in my life.

So I'm dusting off the old resume tonight, (and since I've been working with the same firm since I was in college...as an intern 10 years ago), it's very dusty and dated.  I probably should also start calling it a CV.

I think technically I should be (will be perhaps) deported (since my Visa is tied to my job).  But we'll see.  I'm scared (very), sad (somewhat) and nervous (incredibly).  But I'm hopeful things will work out.

 ???  :-\   :'(   :D
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Jody on August 30, 2006, 05:34:50 pm
Dear Cliff...It's been said that the only constant in life is change...I'm certain you will do well whatever you choose as you are a bright, personable and decent young man...And with your beloved, sweet Will still here in the states it may be good to come home and settle down here again and travel less.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Jody
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: jack on August 30, 2006, 05:41:51 pm
What about your health insurance? Good Luck.  I never had the balls to quit unless I had something else working. To be young again..
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Val on August 30, 2006, 05:50:31 pm
Hey, Cliff!
If the English start giving you a hard time, hop on a plane and come over to Paris!  Hope, though, that things will work out for you just as you want it to.

Val
___
___
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: RapidRod on August 30, 2006, 06:11:53 pm
Cliff, you know that you can do whatever you set your mind to do. I'm sure if you want to come back to the great state of Texas they'll have you. If not, come to Ohio, just leave the sheep alone.. :D
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on August 30, 2006, 06:56:31 pm
Thanks guys!  I just finished my resume and sent it off to a couple of head-hunters.  My friends have been really supportive (agreeing to be references, sending me sample resumes, and of course words of encouragement).  It will work-out somehow.  I'm more calm now.

And like you said Rod, there's always Texas.

Fingers are crossed (well they already were for Jan's twins, so I'll just cross them harder).
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Matty the Damned on August 30, 2006, 06:58:48 pm
Best of British Cliffie!

MtD
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Christine on August 30, 2006, 07:11:40 pm
Wow! That is a big change! I'm guessing you have a plan for your health benefits, and a little savings. I'm a little nervous for you. But excited at the future!

Christine
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Just John on August 30, 2006, 07:19:02 pm
Hi Cliff.
I really don't think you should worry too much about the deportation after all this time, I should think that you'd be able to stay if you really wanted. Anyhow I wish you the best of British luck.

Take care, John.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: RAB on August 30, 2006, 07:20:00 pm
Hey Buddy

"Big" changes indeed. 

Assuming this decision isn't a reaction to something that has upset you at work, then I say "go for it".

There isn't a doubt in my mind that you can achieve whatever personal goals you set your mind to.  If this decision is the first step in a well thought out plan to make changes and achieve different goals--I'm behind you 1000%.

I guess the first question though, that comes to my mind, is:  Why?

I also assume you aren't talking about quitting before you have another job lined up.  >:(

Change in and of itself can be frightening, but that should never deter us from making it.  Especially if the possible outcome is something we truly desire.   

Do we want less travel?
A greater sense of recognition?
More challenge?
More fulfilment?
(Just for the record, salary is rarely the reason someone elects to make a job change.  There are numerous studies out that document that fact.  Those studies almost always identify the #1 reason as being a sense of fulfillment.)

The list can go on and on.  The most important thing is to make sure we have honestly looked at the situation and understand what it is we want. 

RAB

Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: anniebc on August 30, 2006, 07:56:54 pm
Hi Cliff

We talked a little about this in Montreal and you wern't sure how things would go, based on what we talked about I think you have made the right decision, I agree with Rocky, you have to be happy with what you are doing, l wish you all the love and luck in the world.

If the pommies won't let you stay there is always NZ... :D

Hugs
Jan :-*

Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Robert on August 31, 2006, 01:04:30 am
I have love in my heart for you kiddo.  You're smart, talented, tall, dark and handsome, witty and engaging.  With all that going for you, following your passions, with Will by your side, is a dream come true.  I'm not saying it's going to be easy.  Nothing is easy.  But it is the right thing to do.  Congraulations!!

robert
 
ps....it's the unexpected that can make life so great.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: kcmetroman on August 31, 2006, 07:32:31 am
Hey Cliff,

I went through the same emotional conflict some time back, but nothing ventured, nothing gained, so to speak.  Things will work out for you, and I wish you the best of luck.

Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: J.R.E. on August 31, 2006, 08:07:31 am
Hello Cliff,


Wishing you the best ! I think whatever you next job is you will do just fine !



Good Luck-----Ray
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: aztecan on August 31, 2006, 11:20:33 am
Cliff,
All I can say is follow your heart. I know you will land on your feet, probably doing something that fulfills you and offers you the future you want.

If you do come back to the states, and you don't want Texas, swing through the Lone Star State, pick up your sweetie (who, by the way, is really nice and quite handsome) and head to the great Southwest.

Whatever you decide, whatever you do, I will stand with you.

HUGS,

Mark
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: livingpositively on August 31, 2006, 10:16:43 pm
Hey Cliff,

I wish you the VERY best in whatever you do.  You're a fantastic person.  I totally enjoyed talking with you and getting to know you, especially in the van to Quebec City.

Good luck with whatever you decide.  I'm sure you'll enjoy many great opportunities.

Hugs, love ya,

Shane
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: david25luvit on September 01, 2006, 07:36:40 am
Hey Cliff...

                  I share the optimism of the group in thinking you will be fine.  I have no doubt it is a little 'SCARY".
 I wish you good luck and God speed....in whatever you end up doing.  I too believe its important to
enjoy what we do in life...whether it be work or whatever.  Life is too short to do otherwise. 
You have a great personality and a wonderful sense of humor which I believe will serve you well.

Best of Luck ole Chap

Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: fearless on September 01, 2006, 08:25:23 am
Cliff,

As a Cancerian who has worked for the same organisation for the last 16 years I think I am allowed this one indulgence: "What the f... are you thinking?" ;D

Good luck, I'm sure with your skills you'll have no trouble finding a more fulfilling career path, if not, there's always bhp/billiton.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on September 01, 2006, 12:11:29 pm
Thanks guys!!!!   ;D  It's hard work looking for a job (especially when you're illegal, well almost).  I feel like I'm working harder at finding a job, than I did when I had one.  I've met several headhunters so far and they were all nice and seem to be doing their best to find me suitable employment.  Though they have all expressed concern about my visa situation, so this weekend my task is to start working on an application for a new type of visa.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: emeraldize on September 02, 2006, 01:33:24 am
Cliff,
I wish you luck, but I suspect you won't need but a smidge of it---you've got everything it takes to land whatever you want, wherever you want to be. You put your CV together in remarkably short order--therefore, if all else fails, you could write resumes or work a grille. Yep, I'm only kiddin'.
Em
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: gaz41 on September 02, 2006, 03:37:41 am
all the best Cliff, sure youŽll find something to suit your talents

maybe weŽll get the chance to meet

Garry
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Razorbill on September 02, 2006, 09:42:04 am
seems Cliff you've got the bull by the horns  - best of luck to you- seems you're making all the right moves   ;D
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: blondbeauty on September 02, 2006, 10:39:10 am
ItŽs time for new opportunities  ;)
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: allopathicholistic on September 02, 2006, 01:41:42 pm
(http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l153/aycm8620/goodlkdoggysm.jpg)
trust your instincts sweety. good luck
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on September 04, 2006, 03:31:34 pm
An update...

I completed my new Visa application and mailed it off this morning.  I just drafted my resignation letter and will turn it in tomorrow.  I would hand it in personally but I'm being sent to Birmingham (UK) tomorrow for 3 days, (I just found out today).  Yet more confirmation that it's time to go.  So I'll print the letter off, sign it, scan it and then email it to HR.  My last day will be next friday.

I have an interview on Friday with an American publishing company based 40 minutes outside London.  The location is not ideal, but it's something.

I'm feeling a little better.  I haven't had much of an appetite this past week and well my stools have been very soft and quite yellow (sorry for the lurid details)...it's my nerves getting to me.  I went to the doctor today and my blood pressure was off the chart (even though I am on BP medicine), so he upped my dosage and added a new pill.  I know I'm putting my body, nerves and pressure through hell right now, but they will thank me for it in the long-run.  There's more to life than work and money.

Cliff
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Andy Velez on September 04, 2006, 04:15:12 pm
Good that you're having your blood pressure and other stuff monitored, Cliff.

Having made your decision, just go with it wholeheartedly. Focus is one of the biggies in getting what you want.

Things may evolve differently than you expect. You're on an adventure.....which means twists and turns.

Cheers,
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: manchesteruk on September 04, 2006, 05:22:53 pm
Your right Cliff theres definately more to life than work and money they are quite far down my list as it happens!  I've been unhappy in a job before and it starts to effect other aspects of your life when I made the move it was less money but I certainly didnt regret it.  Good luck in Birmingham, it's erm interesting!
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: AlanBama on September 04, 2006, 05:43:15 pm
Cliff, I think you have made the right decision.   You KNOW I am going to always advise you to go with your heart.  (with a little dash of brains thrown in for good measure!)

I admire your bravery, and wish you the best of luck.   You are a wonderful guy, and you deserve to have a wonderful life, and be happy in ALL that you do.

Love & hugs,

Alan
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on September 12, 2006, 01:31:00 pm
Well today was my last day at work.  8 years came to an abrupt end.  I turned in my laptop and mobile phone (completely forgot it was theirs).  I handed over my Amex card.  My ATT calling card.  Keys to my office.  They are pretty thourough.  I then came home and called Will.  He bitched me out for quitting without a job lined up.  He then pulled a George Castanza's mom ("She's not Chinese, well then that changes EVERYTHING.")  I told him that I was interviewing for permanent positions in the UK, he was taken aback and thought I was just here for a couple of years and would come back to the US.  So now he needs to consider whether or not he too wants to immigrate to the UK on an indefinite basis. 

Oh and they gave me an invoice for $20,000 to repay all my transfer/expat costs as noted in my employment contract.  But being the nice folks that they are  ::) , they will still pay me my annual bonus on Friday.

When it rains...

BUT all told...I'm still happy I finally made the move.  Not well thought out and I should have probably just quit in NYC.  But oh well.  Plus Orange gave me a free mobile (albeit with a 12 month contract), so I'm back up and running again.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Lis on September 12, 2006, 01:44:25 pm
Best of luck to you Cliff.... I know it will all work out the way its supposed to..

love,

lisbeth
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: sweetasmeli on September 12, 2006, 05:27:35 pm
Bugger, I could have swore I posted this before...I tell you, I'm losing the plot!

What I wanted to say was:

Bravo you!
I think if we always wait until we have something else lined up, we could find ourselves waiting forever.
You've already entered the next chapter...good on you, Cliff!

Kali tihi! (Greek for 'good luck')

Melia :)

Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: newt on September 12, 2006, 05:42:45 pm
Good luck, n good luck with B'ham....Home Counties can be nice but can be, er, not...the real England though :D jus stay away from the clubs.

- matt

Now playing: Bob Marley, Redempton Song
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Matty the Damned on September 12, 2006, 06:22:46 pm
Best of luck with the job hunting Cliffie!

MtD
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Robert on September 12, 2006, 06:29:18 pm
Oh cliff.....

I've got butterflies in my stomach......But I know you're doing the right thing....

you and Will are in my thoughts, in a good, good way...mister real good way.

love robert
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Alain on September 12, 2006, 09:27:42 pm
.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: JohnOso on September 13, 2006, 02:35:39 am
Best of luck to you Cliff.  When it's time to go...well, you just KNOW it's time to go.

Keeping fingers crossed for your interview....i'm sure you'll just charm the pants right off them.  ;)

Take care,
John
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: emeraldize on September 13, 2006, 09:19:33 am
*
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: David_CA on September 13, 2006, 09:45:10 am
Wow, somehow I missed this post.  I can imagine the stress.  That kind of stress really is hell on ones body.  I'm wishing you the best luck, but you seem like the kind of person who doesn't really need luck; you'll do fine.  Keep us informed about your new successes.  Take care.

David
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on September 18, 2006, 09:41:59 am
 ;D  I got a call from a headhunter and one of the companies I completed my third interview >:(  with wants to extend an offer.  I don't think I'll end up accepting it, but it's good to know I have something on the backburner. 

Tomorrow I meet with British Petroleum and Wednesday I have my second round of interviews with British Airways (my top pick).  Hopefully if all goes well I'll have a signed contract by the end of this week, then I'm off for Houston to visit family/friends.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Lisa on September 18, 2006, 10:21:58 am
You Go baby boy !!
I'm hoping the airline extends you a handsome contract. :)
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Dan J. on September 18, 2006, 02:25:20 pm
Good luck Cliff!

Love Ya!

Dan J.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: david25luvit on September 19, 2006, 06:43:38 am
Hey Cliff.......

                   Good Luck, Good Buddy.  Hope all goes well.  Travel safely and keep in touch!
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: ozjen on September 20, 2006, 07:12:53 am
Oh Cliff, this is great news. What company in the world could resist your obviously brilliant talents?
I'll have everything crossed for you, that you get your first choice.
America's loss, U.K's gain mate.
Hey, I love the avatar! We did have a lot of fun eh!
love ya darl'n
Jen  xxxxxxxx
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: carousel on September 20, 2006, 07:48:15 am
.
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Ann on September 20, 2006, 07:53:01 am
Hey Cliff....

Eagerly awaiting an update..... so I can uncross my fingers already! It's been really difficult to type lately. :D

Ann
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: RAB on September 20, 2006, 10:24:34 am
Hey Cliff....

Eagerly awaiting an update..... so I can uncross my fingers already! It's been really difficult to type lately. :D

Ann


Yeah, what she said! 

RAB
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Cliff on September 20, 2006, 02:19:57 pm
Hi everyone, great news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BA is going to extend an offer (I just found out a few minutes ago).  I'm running late to meet a friend for dinner, so I'll have to update you later.  But I really do appreciate your thoughts and support.  It means a lot.  Things have worked out, as you all said it would.

To be honest, I was really down today.  BA requires folks applying for certain jobs to take a battery of tests and assessments (3 hours long).  I thought I had bombed most of the tests.  I then had to meet up with a few folks from the company and it was tough getting through those interviews when I was under the impression I had flunked the exams.  But I was wrong and now I feel so much better (my insecurities can do a number on my mental outlook).

Hi Jen!  The first company was McGraw-Hill (they publish BusinessWeek and Platts, and own Standard & Poors, the debt rating agency).  A great company with good folks....plus they are headquartered in NYC so it would have been a good opportunity to move back to NYC if I wanted to.  But I love the airline industry (probably a close second to my love of the oil business....lol).  Speaking of which, my interview with British Petroleum went well and they want to meet again tomorrow morning.  I'm trying to stay focused on getting through this interview, even though I am going to go with BA.

Thanks everyone!
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Robert on September 20, 2006, 04:13:32 pm
Cliff.

this is such great news~  congratulations~!!!.  I'm not surprised.  They're very lucky to get you.

by the way, this means you get free tickets for you and your family, right?  Don't forget your family here at AM! :-*

robert
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: RAB on September 20, 2006, 06:31:50 pm
Hi everyone, great news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BA is going to extend an offer (I just found out a few minutes ago).  I'm running late to meet a friend for dinner, so I'll have to update you later.  But I really do appreciate your thoughts and support.  It means a lot.  Things have worked out, as you all said it would.

Hi Jen!  The first company was McGraw-Hill (they publish BusinessWeek and Platts, and own Standard & Poors, the debt rating agency).  A great company with good folks....plus they are headquartered in NYC so it would have been a good opportunity to move back to NYC if I wanted to.  But I love the airline industry (probably a close second to my love of the oil business....lol).  Speaking of which, my interview with British Petroleum went well and they want to meet again tomorrow morning.  I'm trying to stay focused on getting through this interview, even though I am going to go with BA.

Thanks everyone!

Cliff

You interview with 3 companies and will likely get three offers (2 for sure already)?  WOW, I am so proud of you!

Congrats on the offer from BA, hopefully you'll get everything you want.  (Ask em to name a plane after you--he he he  :D)

RAB
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: fearless on September 20, 2006, 09:04:30 pm
I bags first buddy travel, Cliff  ;D
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Longislander on September 23, 2006, 07:25:30 pm
Congrats Cliff! I'm glad I only saw this thread now. Turned out to be a great story!
Best of luck (hope BA gives you a $20K sign-on bonus!)
Title: Re: Big changes in the air. Wish me luck.
Post by: Just John on September 27, 2006, 05:29:38 pm
Belated congratulations Cliff and well done. Just goes to show that you're usually right if you follow your instincts.

All the best for the future, John.