I Applied to 40 Jobs. I Got One Interview. It Was in Saskatchewan.
I want to start by saying I am proud of myself for applying to 40 jobs this month, thats a personal record, and also deeply depressing, so we are holding both of those at once today.
Most places did not write back at all. A few sent the form email that starts with We appreciate your interest, which in my experience means no. Then one place, one, called me back for an actual interview. It was in Saskatchewan.
Also, and I need someone else to see this so I know I am not losing it, there is a new ad campaign called Canada Is Here, and it is not even trying to be subtle about it. Two hands reaching for each other over a lake and some mountains, one arm in a flannel sleeve like they specifically hired someone to look like an uncle. Big letters across the top, Even if you chose to leave, we are still here for you. Underneath that, a little green box, We Can Help Your Family With, and then a whole list, finding a place to call home, schools and opportunities for your children, healthcare when you need it most, job support and career training, a welcoming community. Then, in case the hands were not enough, You have options. We have open doors. Bottom corner, a little maple leaf badge, Canada Is Here, For You, For Your Family, and a link, canada dot ca slash welcome dash home.
I want to be annoyed about it. I have not managed it yet. Dale found me looking at it on my phone for longer than either of us wants to talk about.
I want to be clear, Saskatchewan is not close. Saskatchewan is a full tank of gas away, and gas is currently eleven Alberta dollars a liter, so the math on this interview was not exactly in my favor before I even left the driveway. Dale watched all seven kids for two days by himself, which he keeps bringing up like he ran a marathon and not just supervised homework and snacks.
The interview itself went fine I think. They asked why I wanted to leave Alberta and I did not have the heart to tell them I do not want to leave, I just want a job, any job, that pays in a currency that still buys the same amount of milk on Tuesday as it did on Monday.
They are going to let me know. I am not holding my breath, mostly because holding your breath uses energy and I am rationing that too these days.
If anyone reading this knows of work closer to home, bookkeeping, farm accounts, anything, I am available, I am reliable, and I already own the gas money for one more interview if it comes to that, probably.
On the bright side, the kids think Saskatchewan sounds like a made up place, and honestly, some days, I agree with them.