Club Arnage

Doing some reading about how hard it is in business today, and found this from the the FT web site.

Discussion about Tesco and Asda are both launching price campaigns this weekend, But talk of a summer “price war” has left some retailers bemused

The best quote -

(Note - FT did not edit the b word)

I like plain talk, no sodding dressing up quotes.

I wonder what other plain talk MD/Chaiman have said in the past (not inlucing Ryan air MD -  you would need pages for him!)

Well I'm a company MD and I told a customer to this week to stick his f**k*ng car up his arse and leave it there until he learns to pay his bills!
 Times are hard indeed.
 S

Been there, done that and went broke in '95. Still waiting for £100k from some big boys and I'm still not holding my breath.
Neally lost the house but, like youself I'm a stayer.

I wouldn't like to have a small company and employ people through these times again.

Most of my customers are in the roofing business and work for the major housebuilders who are simply not paying them. No excuses - they just aren't paying. One major housebuilder sold just one house in May. That's one house nationwide! Their subcontractors who are my customers are slashing overheads and making people redundant left right and centre. I'm already trying to accommodate requests for extended credit terms whilst trying to keep cash in my company.
This is going to get a lot worse before it get's better believe me.

I work in the scaffolding industry and the companies that rely heavily on "house bashing" (new build housing) are really struggling, for instance I am reliably informed, Persimmon Homes who are one of the really big players sold only 8 units in the whole of the first quarter, hence they suspended all new developments for 6 months!! A good friend of mine heads a business that used to chunk 200k a month in housing is now down to 60k and has had to "slash and burn" basically. Even those with exsisting contracts are being asked (told) to reveiw their rates or their contracts will be cancelled, they (The Principal Contractor) know legally they cant do it but will take the chance or the hit to save their margins...tough times in this sector but lets be honest the completly over inflated property price bubble was gonna burst at some point...me thinks the money has been made whilst the sun shone and now a reality check has succumb. Hold on tight boys its gonna be a hella va ride.

P.S. I was made redundant just this Tuesday due to the fact a national construction company knocked us for approaching 100k,the owners of the company have had to act accordingly, I in no way blame my ex employers, I hope they make it through as they are two great blokes and dont deserve it.

I have had three job offers so far so I am in quite a nice position and will hopefully get through it.

our glorious leader when he was chancellor announced the end of "boom and Bust" , he was talking bollocks then and hes been doing the same ever since.
Its just the same as ever ,make hay while the sun shines and make sure you put enough away for the rainy days.

Thank f**k I decided to work in the social housing field.
Had a good yarn with my boss on friday and all looks rosy for me as my contract looks to be rolling on till next year. She said just keep my head down and dont make any noise :angel:
Several of my local developer "Tycoons" have closed doors on future projects, finishing current sites and that's it..
The Housing association I work for has just bought loads of new build unsolds from some major developers.
They started off saying that it was to hit sales targets but have finally said its because they can't sell em.

Its starting to bite :(

On the Le Mans front, I decided to penny pinch this year - took the wife's Fiesta and got 42mpg door to door. The Westie would do half that. I still dined / barbecued and drank like a king in France, and didn't see the shortages or poor quality stuff that I saw when I got back.

But what struck me was that there was an abundance of quality food in Super U - not the tennis ball cauliflowers, over-priced veg etc that the supermarkets over here are trying to flog.

Yes - it is Boll*cks.

I smell a con going on. Just wait until I become World Empourer and I'll sort it out.

Agreed about all the construction industry comments - no plasterboard sold at my mates plant last week, and yesterday, I heard about some guys who welshed on a bill for a big crane and left the owners to whistle for the £30K hire.

Our time will come....

BryanC

Well, as a director of one of them there plc Housebuilders I can but confirm that it very tough on the whole industry.

Not quite sure If I have a job on Monday, we'll see.  If not then I'll be knocking on the door of some of those housing associations myself.

Last week our group sold 50 dwellings.  There are buyers out there still.

Trouble is that we lost 52 sales due to collapsed chains, no mortgage offers etc etc etc.

The banks & building societies send out the valuers and the 1st thing they do is knock off 10% of the price when it's a new house.  Kills the deals stone dead, upsets a lot of people and causes redundancies that will have long term & far reaching impact.

We as a company have not forced cuts in suppliers rates, we will look after those who help us as best they can.  We have frozen sites and we are laying off site staff.  But we still pay our bills, unlike certain top 3 and former FTSE100 companies.  One of them owes us over £400,000 and we're suing the barstewards for it.

It has been, and will continue to be a very bumpy ride.

My guess is that there's no change until the new president of the USA is elected & until some of the highly paid tossers in the city have driven at least one plc in to liquidation so that they satisfy the terms of the hedge funds & spreadbets.  Sure they will make a whole pile of cash at our collective expense.

If I am not made redundant on Monday then I expect that I will be making staff redundant.  So next week will be "interesting" to say the least.

Watch this space...

Landman

If a mere 10% reduction in valuation kills the deal , what is (was) the profit margin on a new build house?

What have you done to Ting tong's arms.... nasty nasty man! >:D

I was judt trying to find details of a new development in Denmead, Hants. The location is nice, but so far no new building firms have put their boards up....

I cant find ANY firm on the net running any form of information, let alone advertise. My house may go dow in price, but my employer shouldnt go bust, however hard, her prime minister is trying.

I would be a buyer, if they build them there...

I'm drunk!

Actually I'm not, I was driving tonight.  :angel:

Times is tough especially in the building industry. Our biggest client is a plc plumbers and builders merchant. Shareprice has halved. Plumbing and lightside gear still doing pretty well, but the builders and heavy side is having a really tough time. I'm being briefed there'll be a number of redundancies... :(

If you take the average house price of £250,000 as a starting point.

Mr valuer comes along and says knock 10% off, so that's £225,000.

Mr & Mrs Buyer want a 70% mortgage, so they were looking for £175,000 to start with.  Now the bank will only give them £157,500.  That's a difference of £17,500.

Next move is that the buyer comes to us and holds their hand out for a £17,500 reduction on a price that has already been reduced.  Given that a typical profit margin is 15% our original £250,000 price tag showed £37,500 of profit, but if we'd already taken £20,000 off to attract the buyer in the 1st place, another £17,500 leaves nil profit.

Hence why there is so much stock around the country and why we cannot shift them due to the valuers.

The instant 10% off scenario is real.  It means that the buyers cannot borrow as much as they need.  If you then reapply for another mortgage and play around with the price so that the value comes out to necessary £170,000 figure then you are committing mortgage fraud.

The question is just how long the banks will continue on this tack, because they are still having to pay interest on savings, but to pay that the banks need to make money on the mortgages.

Landman

I was speaking to a builder just this morning, and he said that for a builder like barratt or wimpey, About three years ago, on a prestigious development in the North East of Scotland (Prestigious that is, for the north east of Scotland) timber kit houses for sale at just over £200K. every third house was profit.

As someone just beginning a self build, tradesmen certainly seem to be easier to come by now.

That might apply to NE Scotland, but down here in Hampshire it's half of that at 15%.

Just look at the average profit on turnover for any of the top 10 plc builders.

All available online for inspection.

Roll on Monday, let's get this over & done with.........

Landman - Kronenbourg & Stella are my best friends tonight.

Good luck tomorrow, hope it all sorts out.

HAving a Stella right now for you!

Hope it goes well for you tommorow Landman.

The way things are looking though the next few years look a bit difficult for housebuilders, as the ratio of prices to earnings reduces.

Its just taken a while to arrive and was brought about by the crazy lending over the water becoming apparent and loose lending here as well.

The scottish system places heavy financial penalties on buyers who fail to complete at the agreed price, within the agreed timescale, and secondhand houses tend to use the murky offers over system, so the housebuilders have (within reason) been able to determine their own prices, as new houses are generally sold at a fixed price.

I sincerely hope Monday doesn't hold what you expect Landman. Fingers crossed. It's a s**tty situation that's brought about by the banks lending to the wrong people, then having to protect themselves by f**king over the people they should have lent to in the first place.

Hope you have a result Landman.

As an engineer, I've have pulled from under my feet two seperate contract worth £7.5m (not to me ofcourse)because the excuse is lack of sales etc.

So they 'pulled' the projects.

For me thats 2 years work panned all because of sub-prime loans. I don't blame the yanks for this although they started it. Buct the money grabbing imbeciles that run the UK banking industry.  Northern Rock should have gone to the wall.

If it was called Southern Rock, it would have closed 12 months ago and nobody been any wiser.

I could go on but..............reason I don't vote lbour.

The upshot of all the housing doom and gloom is that investors are looking elsewhere. The classic car game is looking rosy at the moment. Whilst less than perfect stuff is not shifting, good cars are flying out of the door. I just sold a really nice matching numbers 67 Mustang Fastback this week for a cracking price on the first day it was advertised and have 3 blokes wanting the Interceptor that I'm finishing off this week. The restoration side is booked solid for the next 18 months too. Happy days!

Despite Gordon 'the tosser' Browns best efforts the credit crunch deepens in the UK.

Take that mask off; you don't fool me!

What have you done with Nordic?

That will be the wife's Interceptor then?!

How are the snorkelling lessons?

>Martini...LB

I know its very hard out there, found this on the web. Help to save those pennies

Old idea, but still helpful for all smokers.   ;D

The Housing Association I am currently working for announced today that they are taking on another 200 plus units from developers in various areas.
The finish quality of ones I have snagged is awful and they were meant for the private buyer so there was not even the excuse of "its only social housing".
My old boss, who runs a very well known retirement home building company told me yesteday that they are now registered as an RSL (Registered Social Landlord) and are looking to shift a retirement block in the midlands with no sales to HA.

Its hitting hard.

Times like this make me sooooooooooooo glad I ended up working in this sometimes hateful field of work.

(http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/847/nastybiscuitsly2.jpg)

(http://www2.b3ta.com/host/creative/41218/1218101074/horrids.jpg)

well my job huntings gone right up sh*t creak with this at the moment

The build quality of the old Council housing was superb, built to last, and not for profit. Look what happens when you get the 'fill your pockets' boneheads in town, bolstered by 'the lend them anything' businessmen now retired in the Cayman Isles. Meltdown dude.

Where's my f**k*ng beer and my f**k*ng gun !!!

Rusty

Any jobs over at your place?

As of Friday I joined the thousands who previously worked for housebuilders.

Sounds like your lot need someone to buy them some more

*he said in vain hope*

Landman

Sorry to hear that Paul, hope something turns up soon.

Any jobs over at your place?

As of Friday I joined the thousands who previously worked for housebuilders.

Sounds like your lot need someone to buy them some more

*he said in vain hope*

Landman
[/quote]

Landman
PM me... I can give you a few leads as heard some interesting news today at work. Not my usual idiot post, serious, its work related and local ;)

Russ.. Ur so so right... The original council houses were some of the finest houses ever built, although not to everyones taste, they have stood the test of time, modernisation and some can be considered to be more sustainable than all the modern rubbish when fitted with all the latest energy saving kit.

Today I had a tour round 16 flats that the HA I work for have just bought off a large national developer. They are in a prime regeneration area in Portsmouth, fancy gates, underground carpark, entry fobs.... but they are crap.

Cant say too much incase "Big Brother" is lurking (gotta be careful in this climate!) but they really were awful.
One of the site chaps showing us round asked "Bet you would like to live here aye mate".... my answer was polite but No thanks, I'll stay in my place in the woods.

Landman... dont forget to PM me...

PP

I eat my words.... >:(
Myself and my Assistant were let go this morning due to the impending "Management restructure"...

I think we had ruffled a few feathers by accidentally exposing some serious failures at senior level and it being minuted at a meeting.
Nothing was intentional but was obviously picked up by the Grand Fromage's and those who will be applying for their own jobs got the arsehole.

Its their loss.

I await the phone ringing tomorrow, fingers crossed for Wokingham to call first. ;)

sh*t ! - sorry to hear that, hope the phone rings - Good luck

Work for myself and know is getting harder and slower to be paid.

Cheers Neil.
Should be ok, got a lead on some other work in Aldershot too so hopefully something will work out, otherwise its going second spanner to my mechanic mate for a few weeks.
That wont be so bad as he has all sorts of toys to work on ;D

Why is it that the scum always floats to the top.

Good luck

Oh bloody hell Rex.

Fingers crossed it all works itself out.

Look on it as an opportunity.

b*ggerit Rex more bad news

I'm sorry to hear that

I don't suppose an early retirement to the Bahamas is in order yet?

Nah thought not

my fingers crossed for you mate good luck for the future, (and the damsel in distress)

bill

You didn't know that sh*t floats? ;)

Hoping for the best on this Rex!

Sure all will work out ok ;D
Just waiting for a couple of phone calls.
Cheers mate

PP

all the best rex - few litres of brake fluid here if you want it ;)

Would you be referring to brake fluid for uses other than in brake lines? ;)

Just got back from losing the family silver in Vegas and now catching up here.
Crap news Rex.  Keep your end up and go cane the Vectra on the 'private airfield'.

;)

I had an interview that lasted all of 10 mins this morning.
450 condition surveys starting a week on Monday and its pay day today.

I think that celebrations are in order!

Thanks for all the support ;D

Sunday shall indeed be a little celebration. The Black pig wont be there though, celebarting and drivin dont mix very well!!!

Short & successful interviews always imply - especially in this sort of market - that your CV was good, and you sold yourself well. Well done! Long may your luck hold!

Nice to hear some good news, well done LPP.

Landman

Cheers Chaps.
Off out for celebrations as we speak.  ;D

Its hard time in work and business.

A friend of mine has had been moved to a new office and the company has new office policy.

Credit Crunch - all down to merchant bankers (is that not rhyming slang)



NEW OFFICE POLICY - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2008


Dress Code:

1) You are advised to come to work dressed according to your salary.

2) If we see you wearing Prada shoes, Versace dresses and carry a Gucci bag, we will assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not need a raise.

3) If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so that you may buy nicer clothes, and therefore you do not need a raise.

4) If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore you do not need a raise.


Sick Days:
We will no longer accept a doctor's statement as proof of sickness. If you are able to go to the doctor, you are able to come to work.

Personal Days:
Each employee will receive 104 personal days a year. They are called Saturdays & Sundays.

Bereavement Leave:
This is no excuse for missing work. There is nothing you can do for dead friends, relatives or co-workers. Every effort should be made to have non-employees attend the funeral arrangements in your place. In rare cases where employee involvement is necessary, the funeral should be scheduled in the late afternoon. We will be glad to allow you to work through your lunch hour and subsequently leave one hour early.

Bathroom Breaks:
Entirely too much time is being spent in the toilet. There is now a strict three-minute time limit in the stalls. At the end of three minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet paper roll will retract, the stall door will open, and a picture will be taken. After your second offense, your picture will be posted on the company bulletin board under the 'Chronic Offenders' category. Anyone caught smiling in the picture will be sectioned under the company's mental health policy.

Lunch Breaks:
* Skinny people get 30 minutes for lunch, as they need to eat more, so that they can look healthy.

* Normal size people get 15 minutes for lunch to get a balanced meal to maintain their average figure.

* Chubby people get 5 minutes for lunch, because that's all the time needed to drink a Slim-Fast.


Thank you for your loyalty to our company. We are here to provide a positive employment experience. Therefore, all questions, comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggravations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations, consternation and input should be directed elsewhere

B is for Bear Sterns.............


http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=BQ8hvmDcQas

I go away for my hols with the Mrs for a couple weeks. Then try and find my part time work ethic. Then try to read all my emails, CA stuff etc and find that you've been offloaded.  Then my shunt and all the problems.  Then start everything again to find you have secured some employment.

CONGRATULATIONS Rex.

Leftie

Things are on the up for me as well.
Just landed a Job up in town working for the Museum of London, only its a 5 month contract (min) but its a start.
I' gonna copy Rex and have a wee dram.

well mates got home tonight after another long day at work as a chippie refitting pubs, clubs etc to a letter saying from friday he is un employed :(

There's a good article over on Pit Pass regarding the state of F1, banks and a nice section on LM on page 1

http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_feature_item.php

Broken link Jules...?

This should work.

http://www.pitpass.com

article is called "Sold to the highest Bidder" by Mike Lawrence, it's on the home page

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7695607.stm

Plenty of hedge fund tossers got caught out at the weekend by betting VAG was going to drop in value. Instead the shares rose as Porsche brought to increase there stake and the wheels came off the fund managers plans. ;D

I would not care a jot but are these guys betting with the money we as tax payers have lent them?

I think they are betting with our pension funds, no?

If that were the case, surely the values would have increased better than they actually did, in the "good times". Mine seem to never do *that* well (Barclays), despite how the markets behaved in the period.

I actually think that most pension funds aren't active, i.e. they do not buy and sell on a regular basis - they buy "blue chips" and stay in them for the long haul. Could be wrong though. These hedge fund and short selling johnnies are the ones which create all the volatility in the market, IMO.

My pension fund has dropped £10k since the same time last year. Not very useful when it was only £40k to begin with.

I'm never going to top it up with my money, only what the company puts in. I'd rather put it in property. Okay so that goes up and down too but at least you can see your money and not rely on some Ferrari driving twat gambling with it in the city (driving a Ferrari doesn't make you a twat, gambling with my money does  ;D )

I think I'll also have a talk with my financial advisor as he clearly needs a kicking.

Pension funds usually invest a largish proportion in the more reputable shares. On average shares have gone down by about a third, and so has your pension, but only if you draw it this week.  Over a long time they'll go up again, so it doesn't matter.  And if you're about to retire, they usually convert your bit into gilts, which don't normally go down in value.

I'm pleased to see that the gamblers got caught on VW.  On the basis that the value of VW shares was going down, they sold lots of shares they didn't own (anywhere else you'd get locked up for that), on the basis that they could buy them cheaply in a couple of days time, and all without laying out any cash.  Porsche announce that they're going to buy 75% of VW, and the price of the shares rockets, leaving the @rseholes having to buy shares at twice the price to complete the deals.

Well done Porsche.  You wouldn't like a major stake in RBS or Barclays by any chance.

Made me chuckle anyway  ::)

http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/Credit+Crunch/

What makes me laugh about these stupid fund managers (who are paid really stupid money) that if the had done any homework or even used one of the few brain cells they had!, was that Porsche wanted to buy VW completely anyway and the only problem was Lower Saxonby share holding (which came from after the war years) and there was a EU court ruling about it due/ or done could not sell out.

So to find out that Porsche owned as many shares in the first place should not be a surprise.

Those city plonkers are total idots,  Porsche behaved like when Walt Disney brought swamp in Florida thru about 50 companies, over a period of time, years ago to avoid prices going thru the roof.

How much do these fund/brainless mangers get paid?      f**k!!!!!!!!!!   :-\

My impression is that the City slickers behave entirely predictably. Whereas in my yoof companies thought long-term, investing in the blue-sky future wisely, City tactics  since Big Bang in 1987 - "Go for it!" - have centred on living for now, with major bonuses for individuals being payable annually. Let's be realistic - if you can secure deals today that will give you a bonus at year-end to pay off your mortgage, finance the kids' education costs right through uni, and still provide you with a lot of toys, how many of us would think long-term instead? It's about as likely as Texan oil barons thinking sagely about the environment! The City culture positively encourages houses built of rather thin card - and when the wind blows....

I am wonderfully ignorant on the current Porsche/VW issue, but was aware ages ago that Porsche technically owned VW, due to some arcane rules of minority share ownership. It is inconceivable to me that all the city analysts missed the fine print which enabled whatever has just happened.

 ;D

http://www.parkerchris.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/vocationvocationvocation.html

Cracking! ;D 

Brilliant

Also for all the people who ask you for a pay rise,  just show them this.

Neil - You must know the corporate big wigs at my place of work.  They gave us the good news about pay rises - or lack thereof - about 3 weeks ago.

Andy - Brilliant!

Dx

Superb Monsieur Zarse.

Brightened my morning no end. Just dreaming of snow now, off to Italy in just over a week. Whoopee.

Looks like you are in for a good one Rusty. Plenty of snow already


http://www.ifyouski.com/webcams/italy/

i know Bob tons of it, me and the lads are trying to extend our stay as we speak. No point being around here with all the doom and gloom :D

 :( Russ you lucky sod! We are skiing in Cervinia in january and I can't wait.

Was talking to one of our pilot buddies on monday and he said the snow views when flying over Turin routing across over Innsbruk then Salzburg were the best he's ever seen, stunning apparently. Have fun!

Stay extended thanks to Ryan Air and a €10 flight . HOOOORAY !!!  ;D

We went this time last year, there wasn't a sole on the pristinely groom slopes, we took a gamble again early this year. Looks like that wager has come in big time.

We're not skiing anywhere this year because my wife is having a baby. Probably deliberately as well.  :(

Wimmin do that on purpose,  also beware of broodiness in the middle of September. Keep your pistol in it's holster Cowboy Dan.

Bugger, just as we thought we were back on our feet after KK's redundancy it looks like I'm at risk.  We've had "the email" that our Commercial Property sector is under review so I'll have to wait until the end of January to see how things are.  It wasn't a surprise though, the writing has been on the wall for a while, it's not a fantastic sector of law to be in at the moment  ::)   

How is everyone else doing?

I had a memo on Wednesday to the effect that we are into " Weathering the Storm " mode. My work is sent through on a Thursday for the following week and having been told there was no work for next week, I had a call on Friday with a full week in Preston, so I can breathe a sigh of relief till next Thurs!!
 I shall be surprised if I have any more this side of 2009 though !!

Most of my customers are now on the "The crisis is coming-Cut the budgets-Save the children"-Hysteria, even those which are not in the financial, property or automotive sctor and aren't really affected at all. By beginning of december I was usually well booked for the year to come but this year is really different. Looks like 2009 will be a bit meagre :( , but hey, that's life!

Lemmings - they'll all be out of work soon as a result

Well, luckily I'm working a 'part time' contract' but not for very long.

I'm 'signing on' on Friday.

Being a 'registered disabled' will get me an enhanced' repayment on contributions that ZanuNuLab have deducted at 30%. But still a pittance when related to the 'cost of liiving'. They still owe me £5k.

I'm 57, sod it. I've paid all my life, they can start paying me.

The big bummer on this is that I have to curtail my 'socialising'. So no pint at lunch, no glass of wine in the evening, mince to a different recipe every night.

We were planning on selling the house in Surrey next year. Ok, we have still made a 'profit' but who is buying? who can get a mortgage?
Luckily, I have a 'bolt hole' in Emsworth and those gits don't know about.

In 2 1/2 years time my -pension kicks in. I also get a 'bus pass'. WOW

Sod them all.


Mutts nuts to the lot of them.

I know banks have the money.

They just make it harder for you to get your hand on it.

(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_hVOW2U7K4-M/SUNr5R96IVI/AAAAAAAAvGY/XStxHmKefTI/s640/002_pics.jpg)

I've been going through trying to find this thread and then thought I should read them again.

Well, I didn't 'sign on' as client needed more work done, and now it's gone quiet again, maybe 10/14hrs a week again. The phase 2 of the project has been delayed yet again until at lease September or October. Client has asked me to be 'mindfull' of the time and cost - that means do the work but don't charge for it! :'(

However, today had interview in Bournemouth, last of 4 candidates and I think all the 'boxes were ticked'. A 6 month contract and will take me up to the Phase 2 start. Should know on Monday.

If sucessfull, I'll be passing near PigPen Towers daily.

Lorry,

I realise that this is a late reply to your post but my mind was elsewhere.

Regarading the pensions element, as soon as the labour government, ie GB decided to hive off £b5 from the pension funds, I cancelled my three funds and took the money. I'm a 'down to earth hands on engineer'  and instinctively knew what would happen. It happens every time the 'Labour Party' becomes goverment.

However, placing your money in bricks and mortar does win depending on when you initially buy.

My property value 2 yrs ago was £1m, now £750k. My outlay was £50k plus inheritance, so I'm glad that the property bubble has burst. Less tax to wasting useless adminstration..

I'm operating at considerably less volume output than last year having a major exposure to the new housing sector which has, to all intents and purposes, ceased to exist.
Started last year with 200 employees and we're now down to 120.
My biggest problem, apart from lack of available business is credit insurers withdrawing cover on my customers. The majority of my business is therefore uninsured or high risk and it's frightening! I'm getting at least one customer going bust a day now.
How's everyone else finding things?

Wish I was in the toilet paper business - now there's a commodity we all need....

Just returned to work this mornin after a long weekend to hear mumblings that our budgets could be frozen till the end of the tax year and 4 day weeks starting soon as our friday is a wasted day, finishing at 1 o'clock. Things must be bad if a council is running out of cash. Problem is though,building maintainance is being run as a small seperate business within the council so no budgets means no repairs and no money coming in. Good job i have my Le Mans funds stashed away already ;D

Heard today that I didn't get the Bournemouth job :(

But at least the late delivery of the descission was due to a debate between choosing me and another candidate. I came 2nd. They said that if 'he' was not there, I'd been working from Monday.

He must be really good. (probably taught me at some time).

Thanks mate.

Well, I've gone and done it.....I've signed on so to speak.

Been speaking with my main client and a few agencies over the last few weeks and the outlook is grim to say the least.
Phase 2 of my client's project is again delayed and what with the comments mentioned in another subject posting
http://www.clubarnage.com/forum/index.php?topic=9356.0 (http://www.clubarnage.com/forum/index.php?topic=9356.0).

So yesterday I spent just over an hour speaking to a lovely scottish lady on the 'phone and explaing my circumstances and I found out that I am able to claim both Job Seekers Allowance and Disabled Living Allowance. In fact from the time I was initially rendered disabled (33yrs) I've been able to claim this!! Wonder if they will back date it ;D

Anyway, got my 'interview' on Monday.

Had to laugh though, during our conversation, I was asked many questions, one being am I available for work. Well yes I am was my immediate reply. She looked on the database and came up with a post as 'Logistics Manager'.  :laugh:

I pointed out to her that the only logistics I know how to do is on a construction site. ie. not globally unless I'm the 'package'!!!

Today I spoke with the 'end user client' at length and he wants a meeting with my client to push progress forward for Phase 2 and I have to be there. So, things are looking but snail slow.

I'll keep you informed.

BUT, if things don't work out, I will miss LM and the 1st CA/DfH Bleu Nord experience :'(

I wish you all the best, lets hope it will work out and we'll see you on BN

Cheers

Werner

It's been a while since I've caught up with things.  It's certainly tough out there at the moment. 

My company, IBM Business Partner/IT solutions provider went under on the 27th Feb.  Around 100 people were let go without any prior notice.  Redundancy claim will go through the government and will only amount to £300ish for each year I've served!  We knew things were going to change and there would be a few victims, but I had been told my position was safe.  The bank pulled the plug at the last minute and we must have been carrying a hefty debt so there was no way back. 

I've signed on, which was an experience...  Things have been busy the last week or so with attending interviews etc and I'm nearing a point where I should have a couple of roles to choose from.  I really feel for anyone out of work at the moment.  All I can recommend is that you sign on as soon as possible and claim what you rightfully deserve as we have all worked for that £60 per week ten times over!

I'm always the optimist and believe there are things out there, it's just waiting for it - if you're fortunate enough to be able to wait.

For those who are in the same position as me or find themselves out of work anytime soon, keep your chin up and good luck x 

PS.  I can actually say that I'm glad I didn't commit to Sebring or Nurburgring (even though I've been close to just saying "sod it" and buying the tickets etc" - it's going to be a tough few months.  Hopefully we will all be celebrating in June at LM!

Vic and Leftie,
Keep positive, give your chin up, something new and wonderful is just around the corner with your names written on.

cheers

A P45?  :(

Best wishes to all of us in the same predicament, I have been looking for a new role since the beginning of December, firstly being told that the market was completely dead due to the economic forecasts and the Christmas break coming up. since then there has been a few more "opportunities" but still having to endure the "experience" of signing on. So now I have decided that I will go it alone and start up a business selling special dietary foods, Gluten Free for Coeliac's, Sugar Free for Diabetics and Nut free for people with nut allergies. It's a risk as it will use all of my reserves to start up (Hence no LM this year), but there is no real help from the Government for industry(unless your a City *anker who has screwed the economy). So, if you can, the time is to make your own luck, otherwise batten down the hatches and weather the storm.

Having been made redundant myself in September [house building], here's my take on the situation.

Stage 1: Cr@p yourself and assume that the world is at an end.  Apply for anything going no matter how distasteful.  I went as low as applying for a job as an estate agent [sorry all you agents]. Use your redundancy money wisely.  Reduce everything to a minimum. Switch your mortgage to interest only.  Sell the dog. Sign on at the Job Centre [why do they need security guards?]. Form own limited company.

Stage 2: Once you realise that you still have a roof over your head and with interest rates as they are you can survive [12 months ago I was paying the best part of £800/month on mortgage, now just dropped to £50 on interest only!!!] for a while, get out there and ring your colleagues, mates, acquaintances, former business partners and start networking.  In my business it's not what, but who you know.  Just had a guy ring me with details of 4 central London hotels & a massive office block for sale.  As an old colleague said to me recently "glad to hear that you are fighting back".  That's just how I feel.

Stage 3: Having made some money and having sought advice on how best to not pay HMRC too much tax [in the legal way], begin to enjoy life a bit more, book your Le Mans tickets & begin to look forward again.  The property business is showing some limited green shoots, but it will affect second hand homes initially as mortgage money is made more readily available.  Those of us in the new homes business will have to wait until late '09 or early '10.

This does sound rather glib, but I have moved from stage 1 to stage 2.  I have opportunities to make money [so why am I "wasting" time on here you say!] and I hope that once the big deals come in that I will not be returning to being an employee.

To those of you recently made redundant I hope that you can draw some comfort from someone who is a few months ahead of you.

Hope to see you all at LM this year, which should prove to be cheaper for me than last year.  I reckon that my basic package will cost me £122.50 compared to £170 last year.  Fuel will be cheaper, just need the Euro to collapse, as widely predicted, in early summer so that we get back to €1.2 to £1 [or better] to reduce beer prices while in France.

Regards,

Paul / Landman

Ian,

I'm not sure if it is still running,but the DTI or whatever they are called these days used to run a thing called the loan guarantee scheme which is aimed to help new business starting up.

It is a loan scheme which from waht I can remember is underwritten by the DTI and the  banks.

Wishy

I am (was) registered as a Sole Trader and therefore not quaulifying for that protection.

Howerver, did you notice in the 'headlines' recently that the HMG has started a new scheme with no changes to the old one.

Just ZaNu Labour 'sound bites'.

I hope I'm wrong.

First contractor I worked with was Wrekin Construction Ltd. I've worked with many but they are in the top two of my list. They have gone into Administration because the government bank RBS will not aid funding as 'cash flow' even though a £100m confirmed order book on government funded projects. The mind boggles.

Wrekin is one of the best managed companies I know of.

F***ing senseless.

It seems that RBS have a policy not to support anyone at the mo.

Last week I asked for a temporary extensiont to my overdraugh tdue to a small hiccup with  cashflow ....as a number of my customers are paying very slowly,even though "errindoors "chases them on a daily basis to no avail.

I am really concerned with the banking fraternty...when I made the first call I was asked what I do for a living........That really builds confidence!!!!!!

The thing that really pi**es me off is that because them being swines  ,i have had to turn away 6 grands worth of business this week so far :(

Luckily for me there is light at the end of the tunnel........my wealthy aunt has offered a short term loan get me out of the provebial.

Thanks Wishy, it seems and help on business start up is rather limited (unless youare a bank of course), trying to avoide too much borrowing, went to the HSBC to open a business account and asked, the lady business advisor and she actually laughed when I enquired  ::)

We had the same problem, we use an online solicitor to send threatening letters!
Thomas Higgins is who we use and they charge £2 a letter, seems to get people paying quicker!
You can enter all the details online to speed up the process.

That would be tickets at BN with CA and DfH then.

Too right... what better way to drown those blues than to spend a week in a field in France with a bunch of the best nutters on earth!

That'll be excluding Fred the Shred then... sorry, Sir Fred the Sir Shred.... ::)

It's chuffin' vicious out there (still), suffering meself big style, but there's one thing that gives me a reason to keep the faith....... ;D ;D

After all, if I can't have a week in June en La Belle France..... what's the feckin' point ???

Positive thoughts, potential opportunities & when we start living again (as opposed to merely surviving) then promise yourself a small trippette to Florida circa early March 2010 ;D ;D Possibly not the most sensible advice ever offered, but hey, it's working for me :D

Just about secured funds for the trip in Joon (booked months ago :o), not that EON will be overly amused ;D ;D Needs must!!

It's only a poxy (!!!) recession... compared to some people's battles, it's pretty insignificant...

Keep fighting folks ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

I was placed "at risk" from today. There are 9 jobs in the nice shiny new structure, but there are 28 of us going for them. Having worked for the company for 22+ years counts for nothing, nor does a fine sick record (virtually none!), being flexible about working away from home etc etc. They are paying statutory minimum only so I don't even get rich in the process, and I'm too young to take early retirement. For those "lucky" ones who manage to get the jobs, the company is proposing new terms and conditions whereby if they have no work for you then they can lay you off completely at a week's notice for a period on £21 a day, or can put you on a 4 day or 3 day week or whatever they happen to fancy.

It's been a month or two longer than I thought coming, and is much deeper than I thought it would be, but the upside is that at least I have no worries about whether I can spare the time to go to LM this year  :)

I'm not quite in the market for work yet, as if I find something before going through "the process" and have to resign, then I don't get the small redundancy pot, but I am open to any ideas about how to fill my days, especially if it would bring in a few bob.  :)

There's alot to be said for cutting loose and being your own boss Smokie, so many companies are using the current situation (encouraged by the banks) to force contacts that they would not have dreamed of a couple of years ago. You might want to have a look at www.actinic.co.uk its a website developers system that is very popular for small businesses, most people retain specialists to configure and maintain their sites.

After going into a business partnership last year with a pathalogical liar and a cheat, I was lucky and able to pull my shares and we dicided to go it alone, so here we go, we are now the proud owners of www.diabetichampers.co.uk, a web business providing (unsurprisingly) gift hampers for Diabetics. We started out developing our own website www.freefoods.co.uk to supply Gluten free, Nut free and Sugar free foods, but then Diabetichampers came up for sale and its natural fit. This way we now have a developed site and a business that can be grown and enhanced whilst feeding between each other. Freefoods should (we hope) be up and running in 2-3 weeks time (hence no LM this year  :'( ), so it's tally ho!

Hard times for the Family Legal Aid lawyers as well, hard to believe but true, the Ministry of Justice (USSR ring about that name), are reducing our income this June and next April by an overall 62%, they reckon we should be paid at the same rate as a junior optometrist. We can't even run the business on that!
Should make for a nice lot more work when we end up with more abused wives and children, what is this bloody government up to?
So I shan't be there, bloody hell I'm going to miss you all and those shiny AMs in LMP1.

To all those out there suffering from the hard times, stick together, keep pecker up and keep posting on here. We won't let the bastards grind us down.

Hello Douglas

This government is doing what the next government and the next after that will have to do and that is to cut public spending thanks to the bankers we are all in the poo big time, no Le Mans for me either this year.  :(

Guys

No Le Mans for me too.
I've been following this thread for a while so I'll mention my pot of poo. Annus Horibilis don't come near.

I'm an architect and have been hit by the recession big style. A big project I was working on in January and due to start in June was put back to September subject to the client ( public ) getting the money together.

At the end of January, I was formally made redundant and started my notice period of 4 months. 3 days later I was redeployed in the same office with a circa 40% salary drop - fortunately the house is paid for, and a quick look at the pensions showed that early retirement was possible but uncomfortable, so discounted for now.

Early in February, the M in Law died aged 87, not unexpected but I sorted out the arrangements and helped the wife get over it.

Early in March, some old guy ran into the side of my wife's car, a big smash but she was only shaken ( and shaking that night when we discussed it and I saw the damage ) but flip - it's only metal.

At the end of March our little dog aged 10 died after 2 days of throwing up. I'll spare the details but that is not an old age. Pet cemetry dealt with that and much grief in our household as we wondered what could happen next. Surely it can't get worse ?

Exactly one week later, I came home from work and found the wife slightly befuddled and I began to worry she had had a slight stroke although teh symptoms were not all obvious. The medics were not sure but we got her into hospital where they diagnosed liver failure, weak heart, put her on life support and then intensive care when they discovered pneumonia. I got a bollocking from teh hospital for not spotting anything amiss and not goint to the doc but we never go to the doc unless we feel really poorly. One week later she had died on the 8th April and today aged 61, would have been our 38th wedding anniversary.

I can't say that being on first name terms with the funeral director is fun but sh*t happens.
On a slightly humerous note, we received a wedding invite in the post so you can say that I've had 3 funerals and a wedding ( get it  - apologies to Hugh Grant ? )

Yes guys I'm slightly p*ssed off with life and rattling round the house keeping busy to avoid wallowing in self pity.

All my mates and the various girl friends are ringing me up offering to help - you know, washing, ironing and a frozen portion of supper, ( but unfortunately not a sh@g yet ) and I'm wallowing in it for now but it will soon dry up as life moves on.

I've taxed and insured the Westie, going to see Neil Young next month and listening to as much rock music as I like without having to turn it down.

I also learnt how to use the washing machine, having found after 2 washes that were not too clean that you have to put powder in. Cooking, gardening and ironing skills are also advancing.

I decided in January that I could not plan for Le Mans with job uncertainty and the strength of the euro but my heart will be with you in the little corner of england in the Sarthe. Probably be there next year having not missed the last 10 years.


Stay cool, keep rocking and live for today because it could be far worse around the corner.

Regards

Bryan C

Bryan – what can I say mate you have had a ruffun this year to say the least sometimes it needs a post like this to wake us all up an realise that hell ok work is in sort supply but there is always someone going through worse you take care now and keep your chin up, see you in the Tertre Rouge for a beer next year for sure!

Thats a tough year by anyones standad BryanC.

Had my share of ups and downs this year and last, all work related including not being paid for 3 months, hopefully they are largely behind us now and they don't stack up against most of the stories here.

Fingers crossed there is a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.

All the best BryanC, I think next year we should have a specific group for those of us who can not make it this year and have a right old pissup!!!! as well as attending the other pissups of course......

Good shout Ian we could have T shirts made up saying the “2009 Didn’t Goers Are Back!” or something like that.

Any other suggestions?

 ;D

We should have a thread, of honour, to list those of us not going?

Bryan, what a b*stard time.
Your experiences were so awful that I was half expecting there to be a punch line, and a comment telling all us grumpy bu**ers to cheer up.

Well more power to you, we'll be there next year and I'm all for a t-shirt and piss up exclusive to us.

Doug

Bryan,

I wish I had your courage and hope I never go through your experience. Good Luck and fortune for the future.

As it looks, I won't be there this year. My wife is very religious and praying that I stay at home. I'm decended from the ancient celts and lean towards, but do not follow druidism. If I can find a way I will. Not looking too rosey at the moment though.

I agree with the 'special' tshirt idea.

Having 'signed on' at the jobcentre, I now fing that I am not entitled to jobseekers allowance. They want me to find work, but are not prepared to assist in funding that. So I've told them they must still pay my NI, but I am not looking. You should've seen the look on their faces. I am awaiting a further decision!!!

Again Bryan, chin up and good luck. (The same applies to all those in our situation).

All

Perhaps we can keep this thread going and share experiences etc and provide support to those having a bad time with it all, sounds a bit socialist worker I know but just seems right at the moment and we can always talk about the race/pissup next year if we all get too down!.

looks like I was LUCKY to get cast off by the AA a couple of years ago,at least I've had time to get over it and used to it..

BryanC as we all sympathise can I say that with your attitude I'm bloody sure you will pull through the crap and see us all there next year

(If I can get there myself next year-- diminishing returns takes over after a while)

Guys, those I see in France, I'll raise a glass to, those I don't I'll raise a glass for!

I know, its just an excuse for me to have a drink they all say!

Guys

Thanks for all your kind words - sadly no punch line but I've retained my sense of humour and irreverence even if the tone is what it is.

I can honestly say that where I've been registered for 6 years on the Forum, I visit at least once a day but post much less often, so the regulars are regarded as close buddies even though I don't know them directly nor stay at the 'animal house' sites close to the circuit having found a good camping spot out of town, and where a gimp suit is less essential for drinking dress.

It's not for me to advise people to 'chill' but we are not here for practice.  Make the most of it and if you do get to le Mans this year, think of us back home drinking only best bitter, eating cheddar cheese, sliced white bread and all the other lesser cr@p we have to give up when we cross the Channel.

Right - starting right now, I'm out on the Saturday night session. Catch you later.

Regards

BryanC

Had an interview this morning at a previous client. 2 going for same job. Both have worked with the client, he more recently.

The interviewer knows me and I have got them out of trouble in the past. Gave a glowing written reference from thier Director.

Apparently I was not pro-active enough! With my history with them, I didn't think I needed to be.

My trouble seems to be that on seeing construction drawings, I can visualise. So do not need to ask questions unless I see a problem.

The other guy got the job! Construction is complicated but the need to be at running pace is essential and think instantly - THATS ME.

sh*te happens.  >:( >:( >:(

Based on the above, I will not be attending on this very dry/hot and momentous CA BN campsite. I'm the organiser for our group and I cant afford to go >:( >:( >:(

Bryan,

That really is sh*t by the skip load, dropped from a great height repeatedly.  All respect to you for that post.  And if someone can offer you a trip out there with them this year, take it! 

MG Mark

Leftie, keep plugging on sure you’ll get something soon and you will be supping the kroni on BN for sure!!

Leftie, do you think it could be cos you is Welsh?
H

Kicking him when he's down!

I reckon the other bloke said he'd work on the cheap, that's what we are finding, they won't be able to keep their business going in the long term but they will work for peanuts now.

Keep your pecker up Leftie,
the next one will stick.

Are you up in Westbourne by any chance?

Doug........Hayling

Things might be looking up.

Just did a jobsearch and Havant BC have got a job 'just up my street' so will be applying this morning.

It became available yesterday.

Weird really, the spec says fully chartered and the rest of the crap, but then say experience! without the qual's etc. umm.

At the rate they are paying, I'd break their frigging arm.

Leftie

Good luck Leftie.

If you get the job and need a lift to LM I have spare seats.

Rgds,

Paul / Landman

I probably posted somewhere else that I was laid off last Friday, statutory minimum after 21 years, altogether a bit of a pi$$er.

I'd planned to do the Chicago Blues Festival followed by a road trip down the south and back for most of June, which would have ruled me out of LM. Not that I can really afford it, but it was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Now those plans have been scuppered, because the Mrs found me 9 weeks work at her place - 3 days a week, including right through the night every Sunday. So now I can't do LM OR the States.

Next challenge will be getting to Edinburgh for some comedy in August....

Smokes, that sounds crap on all fronts. Good luck mate!

What a shitter smokie.

So many of my friends have been thru, or are going thru the redundancy stuff its hard to see an end to it, but there will be and at some point it will turn around.

Good luck

S**t Smokie, I am sure a man of your Caliber will find somthing soon, shame about Chicago and LM, join the ranks of looking forward to next year.
Having said that, I just launched a new product on my web site - a Fathers Day Diabetic Hamper...and when is Fathers day???? doh, probably cut short my opportunity for anything more than Friday to Monday at LM in the future.

Clucking Bell - Smokie - What a total sh*t thing after 21 years, I bet it will be the minimum redundancy pay, and thats bloody hard as well.

Good to see you have a stop gap job, to help in the short term. Hope it all goes well.

Good luck in the future. - Try and keep smiling.

This year father's day is the following weekend.

I hope your still joining us in the three frogs this eve.

Or would that be rubbing the Salt in?

Statutory Minimum is really bad after all that time.   >:( >:(

t.

yes, this year, first since being going, but hopefully, thats worse, as people should order before, which means busy busy...still in start up this year, so unless last minute reprive from upon high.....

The good news is that the US road trip is back on. I attended the new job (remember it was only 9 weeks worth, 3 days a week) for "training" last night. The expectation was that you'd arrive at about 4pm on Sunday and leave site after 8:00 on Monday morning - and it could be well later than 08:00 if things weren't good. That made it more like 4 days a week, and all for only a very modest rate, so I gracefully declined their offer of further employment.

Am going to book flights today so nothing else gets in my way  ;D

Fighting stuff Smokie... Has the missus not threatened to give you a hiding then, or are you taking her with you?

We have had a few put down in our place including Director's

>Martini...

Don't be silly Martini, one of us has to earn us a living!!!  :laugh:

Just heard, even George Lucas is finding it hard in these finacial times.

He's had his budget reduced on his new Star Wars film and has had to make some cost saving cuts.

Unemployed as of this morning  >:(

A lot of underhand things have gone on behind the scenes and beyond my control so I have walked before I was pushed out the door. Trade union rep is on the case now but I had to go before the temper got the better of me.

I will probably regret going the way I did but ho hum,as one door closes another one opens.

Mike - sh*t - sorry to hear about that.

Good luck, I'm sure there will many doors for you and good luck.

Cheers

Sorry to hear that Mike. It would have been best to get kicked out as opposed to 'walking', but I supose 'constructive dismissal' could be a case in your favour. So, welcome to the club.

You may have to kick that 2nd door down as it is VERY slow in opening.

1st week of unemployment down and im properly fecked off with it already. Its not that the job hunting isn't going well because surprisingly it is and fingers crossed I will be working by the end of the month, its just the thought of not working thats pi$$ing me off. Loads of spare time to get the odd jobs done just isn't enough to amuse me. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr  >:(

I think you must be doing it wrong Mike!!  ;D

End of first week "Training" for new job - anyone want over 50's insurance give me a call. Sods law, the advertising for www.freefoods.co.uk just kicked in and the hit rate has jumped from 10 or so to 130 a day and we have had 4 orders, and then 2 "special" orders (non standard hampers) came in for www.diabetichampers.co.uk, not complianing, just knackered after 6 months on the rock and roll.

Interview tomorrow at 10.00hrs.

Not the best paid engineer's job around but decent area - Farnborough. At least I'll see the Air Show for free  ;D

The other 3 applications I'm filling in are £10k more, but if offered, I'll take tomorrows' job and be done with. (Beggars can't be choosers and all that).

Had a good interview.

My second referee was the lead interviewers boss about 10yrs ago! also it transpires that I was at Naval School with him. Not that these new pieces of info are any help to my cause though.

Keeping fingers crossed still.

Fingers crossed Leftie  :)

I have lost count of the number of jobs I have applied for in the past week.

On the upside though. My trade union rep phoned this morning to say they've had a bit of sucess investigating the things that led up to me leaving last week and all being will I could get a bit of a pay off for forced resignation
 :)

Fingers crossed for both of you.

Ade

Many thanks for the kind words Ade.

I didn't get the job although it was very close.

At least the school chum phoned me personally to let me know the outcome.

Oh well, complete other better paid applications then.

Unlucky leftie,your obviously meant to be in a job with more pay  :P

Im still waiting to hear from my applications I sent off last week but I have just completed the online application for the RAF. Always a thing I thought I wouldn't have the balls to do but now is the time I suppose  :)

As a pilot?

You could start the redevelopment of Toxteth by dropping a few HE devices. >:D

Hello Leftie,
I failed my exam at Brussels last Thursday and finished my contract with BT on Friday  :( so I'm joining  the great unwashed and looking for a job myself

Good luck to all on here who are looking for work

Theres a few areas up here that could do with somthing being dropped on them  ;)

I'm looking to get an apprenticeship as an engineer or into the fire brigade or police,visiting the recrutment office in glasgow on monday with a mate.

You could start the redevelopment of Toxteth by dropping a few HE devices.  

The riots and Mr Heseltine, redeveloped the area for us.

Guys - time for an update and its about time all you grumpy bu**ers cheered up. Heres the punch line. Yes 2009 started off crap but you have to  shake yourself down and move forward. I posted 1st May with my story and no I didn't get to le Mans this year - streamed it onto my laptop instead, but let me tell you how things move on.

Work has suddenly started to pick up in the construction industry ( remember I'm at the front end meeting clients and putting ideas down on the CAD machine ), salarys might be reinstated part way in a couple of months time and people I work with are starting to laugh together. Fingers still crossed a bit but I'm not the only one saying things have started to move at last.

OK, losing the missus so suddenly wasn't good, and thats an understatement which I can't reverse, but since then, friends have been fantastic, I've met lots more people, the village community where I live seemes to have taken me in, my diary is full of summer parties well into September, and the fa*ny is throwing itself at me, resulting in lots of new opportunities and time to enjoy myself. When you wake up you realise its all over the place, it brings a smile, although I hear that Nottingham is especially fortunate to the tune of 5 to 1. My mates call them 'black widows' and to watch out, but hey....seize the day. I even had a commitment offer last Friday from a gay divorcee 15 years younger, who I've known for a few years though not ready for that yet. ( She was probably slightly squiffy tho, but I think she might have been serious, and she suggested I see her at next weekends party - there might be some rumpy pumpy on offer too ). I've even been in touch with an old flame to pick up where we left off years ago, but thats another story for the ladies to get their hankies out to.

I've even discovered the lost art of flirting and leaving the fair sex with a glow to their ego as I go on my way with a twinkle in my eye. I'm choosy, not even blinking if a fat chav speaks, and goodness knows there are a lot of those about, but I've found even some of the really attractive ladies have a cross to bear - you know, no boyfriend, cold diary, no excitement and waiting for yours truly to come along and give them something to believe in themselves again. I'm no oil painting but seem to hold my own with no trouble under these circumstances.

I've learnt to cook for myself, eating lots of fresh veg and fruit, have lost some flab, feel better, have a spring in my step, skin is shining and built for loving - but might have to have a chat with a GP if things get too sprightly !!!

Right to be fair, I know some of you guys are feeling pretty low, but think of it as the start of coming back and you know where I'm coming from. Onwards and upwards. I don't want to trivialise some of the other threads on here at the moment, but I want to be a little more positive and make you cheer up although I don't suggest you dump the missus first to do the same as me.

Keep rocking, stay cool - see you at the Classic.

BryanC

Very uplifting Bryan.  Glad to see things are getting back on track for you.

Steve thanks.

Motivational speaking is not my forte, but life is what you make of it.

My son said tonight that Life is what gets in the way when you have aspirations - so true.

Re-reading my post, it seems I'm a right old letch, but that is far from the truth. Being happily married meant that I never looked beyond the garden hedge, never mind look to the horizon, and goodness knows I;ve stared down at my shoes a few times.

My prospective daughter in law tonight said its great having a chap like me around, so I must be saying a few right things. The main thing is see the bright side and keep smiling, and when I said give the ladies something to believe in, I meant a little bit of flattery, whether its your partner, wife, girl-friend or what ever. If they feel good, then you will, and it will rub off. Nobody responds to a grump.

Right off to the pub quiz now for  Wednesday night drinkie-poos part deux.

Keep rocking.

BryanC

Pleased to hear that all is going in the right direction.

Im not down and out yet  ;D

Plenty of work at home keeping me going just now and trying my hardest to get into a new career path.
Just sent my application off to SECTT to register for electrical apprenticeships and applied for loads of college courses.

As if Mondays are not bad enough...... to find an email from HR saying that mine and the other contract surveying positions are to be replaced by one permanent position made for a great start to the day.
Our wonderful new boss does not know what the salary is and was going to have a chat to us when he "had time".... the fact that he seems to want us in the office all day and not out doing what we are meant to do means that he would have had plenty of "time" over the last week.
The agency that we are both working for had not been informed either.

Looks like its back on the spanners for me as there is no way I would work under a spineless Fcuker like him..........

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr >:(

Sounds a bit shady that they inform you by email and not face to face aswell  ::)

Due to the lack of jobs out there that I can apply for Im off to college again. I got accepted for a place on the NC course in aeronautical engineering this morning and i'm going for it. Its classed as full time but its only 3 days a week so theres time for a bit of the old joinery on the side to keep the le mans and beer funds up  ;D

Still no explanation from the Boss and he is sat 3 feet away from me.... and I have asked >:(
Trying to remain calm..... but its not working very well >:D

Finally got an answer and my last day is Friday 28th.
Both of us have been asked to apply internally but as we have both been singled out to be let go I dont hold out much help.
My boss begged us to apply but the powers that be have said we dont need that many Surveyors, hence condensing 2 positions into one.
Got a few leads on other things so fingers crossed. >:(

at least i have a job rex.....maybe we could hire you out as a stripper    :police:

Personally I think Claire could possibly make more money as a stripper than myself. I have no desire to attend parties where I maybe required ;)
However, all aside, I had a call this afternoon and there is some hope.
Fingers crossed.... not like Lady PP does. Terrible mess :-*

Rex

about this stripper business...

I'm a bit alarmed at the possibilty of nipping into the local Rocket Club *and finding you displaying your luxuriously plush exterior under lights and possibly hanging off a pole

Atcherrrley I'm a lot more than a bit concerned, so how about you should start a thread

Stop Rex from stripping for a living

where do we donate?

* not as I ever went into such an establishment, or saw our local vicar discussing religion with one of the delightful damsels thereof...

I have a plan!
If i am to be a stripper.. then everyone should ;D
Next calendar!!

Reminds me of 'The Full Monty'.

Go for it mate, think of all those Hen Nights that you will get molested at.

Well.... My contract finished last Friday and I have been amusing myself by doing a delivery round for some friends who own a Sandwich delivery business. Finished by 1.20 and enough pocket money to pay for the evenings beers. Interview on Monday in Southampton.  ;D

Good luck, for Monday.

No work is crap, my phone is dead.         There again, I may have cheesed off one to many customers.  ;D

Cheers Neil. I will keep all updated. My round involves several hairdressers, florists and a nail shop.... its really rather nice ;D

All I am missing there Rex is a massage parlour, ;D

Do you go there before or after you get your hair and nails done?  ;D

After of course, I always go for a happy end ;D

Good luck, and don't forget you need some spare time for the popemobile

Interview in Southampton Monday afternoon so fingers crossed.
I got 3 new customers on my round this morning which has pleased my friends, especially as the last driver got arrested for being totally hammered before 11 am, drinking neat Vodka from a plastic water bottle!
Classy.

Like you've never done that!  ::)

Good luck anyway

 ;D never!!

I have no idea how I managed it but I passed the SECTT (scottish electrical charitable training trust) test. Any sparkeys out there should know all about it. My head was mush after all those maths questions. But somehow I got a good enough mark to be able to carry out an electrical apprenticeship.

All I need now is an employer  ::)

College was a non starter as there is a lack of funding here just now and the younger students get 1st shout on any that is available.

Had an interview today but not good news as there was someone else with HHSRS experience of a far higher level than mine. Back to the Sandwich deliverys tomorrow....  ;D

Interview today. Start Tomorrow. Hoorah! ;D

congrats. who with this time?

Drum Housing in Petersfield... short term covering someone signed off sick with a knee injury. Lets hope its serious ;D At least its money coming in.

Sorry all... forgot to mention that I have got a side line with http://www.facebook.com/search/?q=voltz&init=quick#/group.php?gid=90798552063&ref=search&sid=554047587.1773867955..1
Its fun, I have a 457 BHP Scooby to play with and am off to the Brighton extreme sports fest on Saturday to drive the car around town to give out samples of Voltz, meet all the Max power babes, VIP tickets etc... life is looking up!!

You lucky barsteward.

Well, still looking for work. A few irons in the fire so fingers crossed.

26 week interview with DWP last week - new oportunities!!

I've signed up and been accepted on two course at Brooklands College - Autocad and Photography.

Good thing is, the government pays fors the courses and I get £300 grant towards books and materials (based on receipts of course).

I was also told to apply for 'total incapacity benefits' due to my condition.

I too have me a job offer from a major house builder.

Just trying to squeeze a bit more cash out of them before I say yes.

Rex: As & when I'm in I'll keep an eye out for a permanent role for you as the company is based just up the road from you in Ringwood.

You have PM.

And you have a reply  ;D

Check out voltzenergyshot.co.uk for more info... looks like a fun weekend!!

A little update ;D
Got a short term contract covering someone off sick (stay sick please!) but my Voltz promo work has come on in leaps and bounds. I have the Scooby fully expensed to use for work and am off the Brighton Uni Freshers day on Saturday to help on the stand and apply stickers to women, sorry...  students! >:D
The weekend after that its the big Max Power show at Snetterton, The Scooby is on the Max Power stand/stage and I have to spend the weekend there in expensed luxury doing a bit and helping the Max babes.... but..... Steve Zarse is coming with me so watch this space.
The show is on Sunday but we are there setting up on Sat and camping Sat nite. I hear Max Babes like Gimps!

I dont see how anything could go wrong!! ;) ;D :o >:D :police: :'(

Don't you have to get CRB checked for work like that? The system must be flawed!!  ;)

I sailed through ;D

Oddly enough, it would appear that sex pest is one of the few jobs that don't elicit a CRB check, early on in the career at least.

I spent the day at Sussex Uni's Welcome Fest with Nikita and Stacy on a Voltz promo day.
It was awful....
I had to drive that bloody car too.
Really crap day  ;)

This is Stacy....

Lets see who complains about re sized images this time!! >:D

Nikita, Stacy and The Voltz P1 Scooby!
I hate working weekends ;D

Hmmm - a hard time in business in so many ways...  ;D

I think you'll probably need help next time. Give me a call.

It really was awful... You would hate it!! ;)

It gets worse... off to Modified Live at Snetterton next weekend with Steve Z, Max Power and Unlimited Styling... I think it will be rubbish as hotel, fuel and expenses are paid for and we dont have to spend all day with the girls... pah... I might not go! ;) >:D

Who the hell did you find to agree to pay YOUR expenses? What's his number?

Must had be a MP or an Ex-MP.  :)

I see no complaints about image size... ;D
Wait till after next weekend with myself and Steve Z with Max Power and Unlimited Styling.... 10 times more honeys and we have 8 to organise :angel:

It will be awful!!

On a more serious note... I got the call today. 6 months on going contract with a council within 20 minutes drive.
Happy as a pig in a strawberry field ;D

Start Tuesday as my Voltz/Zarse/ Snetterton weekend will be rather draining ;D

Its time for a drink or 2...... so releived!!

PP

Steve Zarse and I have just got back from Modified Live at Snetterton..... oh my lord what a weekend!
Full details and pictures will be revealed in the fullness of time but Steve has a black eye, the fattest man in Brandon  (Possibly the world) hates us, and the girls.... oh the lovely ,lovely girls!!!!!

Can't he go anywhere without injurying himself? ;D

If he ever says he wants to go to Pamploma for the bull run, we had better stop him.

I have had an offer I cant refuse..... details will be released shortly.... its a BIG one!! ;D :o >:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el-Aa3ef5Ro&NR=1
Have a look!!

Finish application this pm for job at Surrey CC.

Hopefully I get an interview.

This job is right up my street (no, not the road sweaper) and is one of two positions in my speciality - (F*CKING UP traffic  >:D) maintaining the public highway to the highest standards.

Hopefully I'll get an interview.  If I get the job, don't complain to me if your going surrey.

Surrey has awful road signs (and awful roads).  Your experience of the N138 will come in handy.

Good luck

Good luck mate. Fingers crossed for ya.
I have a few months with Southampton CC doing roof surveys.
Its very exciting work!
However, the massive domestic "incident" today involving Police, Fire, Ambulance, Helicopter and unmarked cars was great ;D
Half term on the estates is interesting!! :o ::)

PP

Thats Andy Z's weekend job....did nobody tell you?

Not selected for interview!!! :'(

So I phoned up and asked why, given name and number of the manager.

Tried in total 10 times, same message   ' The person you have called has 'hung up''.

So emailed a complaint to director level.

Director reply - will be discussing it with manager on Monday 2nd.

Is it worth me applying for any further work in Surrey?

Worth bearing in mind that in this climate, hirers and agents are being absolutely bombarded with applications, which means they are being exceptionally choosy about who they bring forward and who they don't.  What looked like the perfect application 18 months ago, now comes under such intense scruitiny, that it can come down to something as simple as the layout of the CV, the font used, anything really.

I do this day in day out, seeking roles for very talented people in the Project Management arena (although I specialise in private sectors around e-Commerce).  To give some context to the above, I put out an advert on the well known job boards last week.  Within an hour, I had 132 applications.  I have just checked the inbox the applications go to - 614.  To a SAP GRC implementation role, with very very very specific requirements.

My advice?  Use every means possible - network your old colleagues, bosses, contacts, and agencies, and build relationships with them - especially the ones who know what you can do.  Trust me when I tell you, the only way people are getting jobs at the moment is via their relationships, as it gives a head start on the mass onslaught.  I'm afraid its that age old addage - Who you know, not what you know.

Sorry to hear of your troubles.  Given that I read CV's day in day out, perhaps I can be of assistance though?  If you'd like to send your CV through to my home email (BradRWills at aol.com), then I'll happily have a look at it over the next few days and see if I can spot any obvious issues - or even see if I can re-work it for you so that they key messages come across?

Let me know if that's of interest and I'll happily spend an hour looking through it......

Brad

Edited your email addy - apparently programs sniff them out from forums and you get bombarded with shyte. Smokie

Firstly... Fine words Brad, which is a first for me to say! ;)
Secondly, I totally agree with all Brad has said, its not a good time for us freelancers out here.
I can only thank my agency contacts for keeping me going as I have worked with most of them for years and they know I can do the job in question.
I had a chat with one today and he told me that they had had over 600 applications for a job that was not needing a rocket scientist.
Hourly rates have dropped to less than when I started out on my own over 8 years ago (unless you go to London) and its the employers market now rather than ours.

I think there may be few of us out there that now revoke the saying that recruitment consultants are the "Estate agents of employment"

I tip my bowler hat to them all.

oh.. and thanks to Brad for his calls when I was delivering sandwiches while between jobs. Shame nothing worked out.

You're on terrific form this week Peter!  ;D ;D ;D

Blimey, there's enough there for a whole series of Casualty!!

Glad you are keeping well anyway  ;) ;D

But apart from that, Mrs Kennedy, how was Dallas?  ;)

Chaps,

Just heard today that I have secured a permanent position with a large American company working in Swindon, will involve a lot of European travel looking after their computer networks from Moscow to Amsterdam.  Good salary and benefits so all good, I’ve been working as a freelancer for 4 years and echo the points that Lord Pig-Pen made the agents have kept me going since July with bits and pieces last 4 weeks working nights not good but has kept the wolf from the door.

Leftie, I remember when this thread kicked off way back in June I was a mere 49 year old then turned 50 in August thought I’d never get another job but there you go.  Hope you find something soon don’t give up if an old git like me can get a job!!!   

Cheers for now,

Kiters

Good news on your job and good advice to all looking for a job.   

And a plus there are some good pubs near Swindon and just up the road a Cirencester (have family in that area).

Hope your job goes well.

My Turn!!!!  :(

Got called in to a meeting today to be told my job was at risk. Now on two weeks paid "consultation period" to give me time to come up with reasons why I shouldn't be made redundant.

I saw it coming, but it's not been handled very well by them and I think i may have good grounds to fight it (i.e. four of us do the same job but only me put at risk) but would I really want to stay when they have made it obvious they don't want me.  ::)

Toby, mind if I throw you an email?

ouch, good luck Mark...

They need to at least pay lip service to fairness! When my last place wanted to lay off about 2/3rds of the project managers (!!!) everyone was put at risk, and everyone had a "competency based interview". These were all attended and recorded (I mean written) by HR, then the choice of the lucky ones (i.e. those who went) was presumably with the interviewers.

Though we could have predicted with 99% accuracy which of us were going to go... You could tell the ones who would keep their jobs, they all had brown noses :)

My Contract in Southampton was finished early last friday but I have an Interview with Wokingham Council next week for my old job. Fingers crossed. Its not nice out here at the moment >:(

I sympathise whole heartdly with anyone under the threat of or being made redundant at the moment, I truly wish you all the best of luck. I too was made redundant (see earlier posts) but luckily managed to get another position quickly and have held onto it through the rough times. It is also heartning to see the people getting sorted, in my case we had a shakey 2008 and returned a small loss for the year, one bonus was our Corporation Tax bill was the princely sum of £4.95!!

2009 has been sucessfull and we are currently trading at 30% profit which in the our business (Contract Scaffolding) in the current climate is a miracle. We have just knuckled down, concentrated on our core business, taken no risks with new customers insisting on part or all money up front, (even after credit checks) if they are not willing to enter into this agreement we just dont work for them.

Our order books for first quarter of 2010 are quite healthy so hopefully it continues!! :)

As LPP says,its not nice out here at the moment  :(

After months of trying all sorts to get a job (1 job I applied for in Kilmarnock had 458 applications  :o)  I have had to bite the bullet and try and go it alone.

After a meeting with the bank next tuesday afternoon I hope to have M.Hughes Property Solutions up and running. Time will tell if it will work or not but at the moment its my only option.

The plan is to stick to the small jobs that the bigger firms dont want and maybe even provide a 24 hour emergency call out service,that might be more hasstle than its worth though.

Fingers crossed though.

Mike

Good luck, there is always call for good reliable tradesmen no matter what the market condintions.

There is work out there for maintenance and repairs on property. Well I seem to be busy-ish, not always with the cherry picker.

if you need any help, let me know.

Good luck Mike

Mike,

If you do decide to go out on your own.........a good place to start is letting agents.A mate of mine started 9 years ago on his own and he said yes to any job that was thrown at him. All he did was find contractors in the particular field and used them.

Consequently, he now has 14 staff and is turning over in excess of £2,500,000 and is having trouble coping with the amount of work he currently has.

The other avenue to go down with letting agents is proffesional cleaning of properties when tenants leave and new ones come in the agents always need a quick turn round.

Andy

Cheers for the advise and support guys  ;D

I will post again next week when I know better what my possition is.

Mike

Not 100% sure wat you do, but is this of any interest?


http://jobs.westsussex.gov.uk/ccm/navigation/vacancies/

Vacancy list for advert ref 60014878.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Building Surveyors
Chichester or Horsham
£32,800 - £35,400
 
Are you ready for a new challenge? You will bring all round Building Surveying knowledge to our property portfolio to ensure buildings are operational, fit for purpose and can fully support the County Council’s new ways of working.

As property lead you will have excellent communication skills and be able to provide complex and specialist advice and guidance to internal and external clients, including the delivery of maintenance projects identified in the maintenance capital programme. With sound and accurate IT, problem solving and analytical skills you will prepare reports, undertake research and provide the highest level of customer service to clients.

You will also have a working knowledge of all building regulations, building contracts, project management, planning law, health and safety, fire safety and relevant technical building standards including all statutory requirements.

Closing Date: 12 Noon 18 December 2009 
 
Posted Date: 2 December 2009
Closing Date: 18 December 2009
Interview Date: 8 January 2010