G.R. Patterson III wrote:

snip

As a C coder, I'm obsolete here. Everything is C++, Java, Perl, etc., and
it's not unusual for the skills list in an ad to require experience in
over ten specific systems and languages. They also want that to be
experience - more schooling only wastes your money. My database experience
is Informix and INGRES. They want Oracle. With employers getting literally
thousands of resumes for every position, they take only people who are a
perfect match for the job.

Wow, you sound like my alter ego in a parallel universe. I too was a C coder
and did database work with Informix and INGRES (and Progress). I see a very
similar situation here in Milwaukee.

Although I have a good, stable job at the moment, I would be hard pressed if
I had to go looking right now. Moving is not an option.

It's even worse for my brother. He was downsized a little more than 2 years
ago (he produced sales/training videos) and has found nothing steady in his
field. He's not really the type to strike out on his own and that's about
the only real chance he has right now.

The point is, this is typical of the situation in the NY/NJ area.
Unemployment is about 7%, most of it is white collar, and it really grates
to have someone try to tell the world that anyone who wants a job can have
one in the U.S.. Even Home Depot will refuse to hire someone with a
Master's degree, 'cause they're overqualified.

George Patterson
Battle, n; A method of untying with the teeth a political knot that
would
not yield to the tongue.


--
Frank....H