When job loss hits, having perspective, hope can help

Moments into a recent Zoom job interview, the voice on the other end wanted to make one thing clear:

“I have no interest in coming across as a bitter jerk.”

What I heard was the poignant lament of someone who was now out of work, one of many middleaged executives who’ve been victimized by COVID-19 and its impact on all levels of our nation’s economy.

Losing a job can be devastating, not only monetarily but emotionally. I’m betting that very few among us haven’t felt that pain along the way.

“I’m not that old and I’m not that wealthy,” said the interviewee, who described himself as “an East Coast guy” looking to relocate to San Diego. “I’d like to get back to work, doing what I do best.”

An Ivy League communications exec, let’s call him Alex, he’s in his early 50s. Until a few months ago, he’d been gainfully employed since college. What’s more, he’d been earning nice round numbers, in the low six figures.

Now, he’s out of work and at times, out of hope.

Accepting his current fate

In recent months, I’ve heard many similar tales of helplessness and that’s no shame. As for Alex, whose professional resume shines, he’s come to accept his current fate without anger or bitterness, almost.

He told me he’s not looking for pity, he’s simply looking for a job that will mesh neatly with his skills and experience.

“I’ve told myself that when I look back,” he said, “what’s happening will be the best thing that’s

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