Update: since being laid off, I have launched my own digital presence management company. I offer consulting and management for small businesses and individuals looking to establish or expand their online presences through social media, blogging, SEO, and online partnerships. For more on CMR Strategies, visit cmrstrategies.com.
It is with very mixed emotions that I write this post. On Wednesday I received a call from LivingSocial, letting me know that my position was being eliminated (along with about 399 other jobs). Effective almost immediately.
I felt and still feel a mix of things: sadness that I will no longer be with the company that I started with almost two years ago; sadness that I can’t maintain the projects I had been working on; and sadness that I won’t be able to represent the LivingSocial brand anymore. I feel nervousness as I head back out into the job search and sympathy for the other laid-off workers, many of whom may be in more difficult positions than me because of financial obligations or their families.
But I also feel gratitude to the company that let me move back to North Carolina, switch from being an intern to a full-time worker, and change departments to be in one that fit me better. I feel gratitude for the company that sent me to Raleigh and New York City for chaotic but fun-filled trips and trusted me enough to let me take over many aspects of the recruiting team’s social media. And I feel gratitude for the coworkers who sent me countless articles on how to improve my skills, taught me countless sourcing techniques, and supported my countless professional goals.
And perhaps most of all, I feel hope. I feel hope that I will end up in a career that makes me happy and in the meantime, I’ll find something (or somethings) that let me explore my passions.
I was hesitant to write this post, since being laid off is a very personal situation. I feel nervous that you, my readers, will think less of me. But in my everyday life, I work hard to cultivate relationships and build a network of contacts, both on and off-line, that I trust and value. It seems only fitting that I would let this support network in on such a big change in my life.
So I’d like to ask you for help! If you know of a job opportunity- either remote or in Raleigh- that you think might be suited for me, I would love to hear about it. My last position at LivingSocial was as a Junior Recruiting Coordinator, but I also have a strong interest in social media, professional development, cooking, blogging, event planning, women’s entrepreneurship, and more. If you would like a better understanding of my background, please feel free to look at my resume.
And as always, if you ever want to chat about professional development, career opportunities, or just grab a (gluten-free) beer with me, let me know 
Thanks for your support!
Sorry to hear this but will definitely let you know if I hear of anything! One company to check out is my husband’s– he works for Sharefile, which was acquired by Citrix in 2011. It’s a huge company and they are ALWAYS hiring. You might be able to find an open position in something you’re interested in.
Thank you so much for the comment! Sharefile crossed my mind, so I will definitely look into it. Really appreciate the support!!
Very brave post from you, Cristina. And most people are aware that LivingSocial is going through a lot of changes right now that have absolutely nothing to do with you & your marvelous abilities.
With a resume like yours there will be a great number of opportunities coming your way soon. I’m not much of a fan of gluten-free beer, but if you need a cup of coffee or a tea break I’d love to catch up and see how I can help you.
Christina, I am so sorry to hear this and will certainly let you know if I hear of anything. You are a talented, enterprising and outgoing woman – I am certain you won’t be job searching for long!
Hi Amy- thank you so much for the kind words! I really appreciate the support. Hope to see you soon
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Hi Cristina — I’m sorry to hear this news, however I agree that when one door closes, another opens. I have faith that you will find the perfect job in no time! I will continue to keep my eyes and ears open for other opportunities in the area.
xo
Linnie
Hey Linnie- thanks so much for the support. Would love for you to keep an eye out; thanks!
So sad, especially after such a fun night! I don’t know about many openings other than teaching positions, but I’ll be thinking about you:)
I know, I was actually thinking that when I got the news on Wednesday! Thanks for the support
Had a great time the other night!
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Cristina,
I’m sorry this happened to you! I’m in the same boat and will keep my eyes and ears open for you!
xoxo
-Anna
Hey Anna- thanks for the nice words! What field are you interested in these days? We can both be on the look for each other