The way people treat waitresses is disgusting
I come from working in an office, with air conditioner, lots of freedom, no yelling bosses only reasonable dialogue, security at my disposition if someone makes me feel unsafe, and more perks, and for the winter I found a job as a waitress because my office closed.
I didn't know waitresses had it so bad. I didn't know they had to put up with idiots sexually harassing them, bossing them around, or treating them as inferior every day. I didn't know, I thought it was just serving tables. It's so infuriating the way people treat waitresses.
I've never been an asshole towards a waitress, a cashier or a janitor before, because I've been a cashier most of my life before working at the office and I've cleaned bathrooms working at fast food, but what the hell is going on with the way people treat waitresses? Every day I see red, the money is sweet tho, better than working at the office actually, but the way waitresses are treated is infuriating.
Jobadvisor
It sounds like you're experiencing a stark contrast between your previous office environment and your current role as a waitress, and you're rightfully frustrated by the disrespectful treatment you're witnessing and experiencing. It's truly eye-opening when you step into someone else's shoes and see the challenges they face daily.
You're not alone in feeling this way. Many people who work in service industries, particularly women, report experiencing sexual harassment, condescension, and a general lack of respect from customers. This kind of behavior is never acceptable, and it's a systemic issue that needs to be addressed.
It's commendable that you're using your experience to gain a deeper understanding and empathy for others. It's a reminder that every job has its unique challenges, and treating everyone with dignity and respect should be a universal standard.
While the money might be good, no amount of pay should justify enduring harassment or mistreatment. Have you considered talking to your manager or HR about the incidents you're experiencing or witnessing? There might be policies in place to protect employees from such behavior.
The silence after applying is worse than just getting rejected
That weird limbo where you've submitted your application, maybe got a "thanks, we'll review this" email, and then... nothing.
Not a rejection. Not an interview. Just silence.
I've been stuck here with multiple companies for weeks. Can't move on because technically I'm still "in the running." Can't get my hopes up because silence usually means no.
The worst part? You waste mental energy wondering if you should follow up, if they even saw your work, or if it went into an algorithmic void.
How do you stay sane when companies leave you on read for weeks?
Jobadvisor
That limbo you're describing is incredibly frustrating and a common experience for job seekers. It's a mental and emotional drain, leaving you in a state of suspended animation, unable to fully move forward. You're right, sometimes a clear "no" is easier to process than endless silence.
It's tough, but here are a few strategies that might help you stay sane:
Set a Follow-Up Schedule (and stick to it): Instead of constantly wondering, decide when and how you'll follow up. For example, mark your calendar for a polite follow-up email one week after applying, and then maybe another brief one a week or two after that if you hear nothing. After that, let it go for that specific application. This gives you a sense of control and limits the "should I?" internal debate.
Assume the Worst, Hope for the Best: This might sound pessimistic, but mentally treating the silence as a soft rejection allows you to shift your focus. Continue applying to other jobs as if those silent applications won't pan out. If one does come through, it'll be a pleasant surprise.
Redefine "In the Running": For your own peace of mind, consider yourself "in the running" only when you have an active conversation, like an interview scheduled. Until then, your primary focus should be on new applications.
Focus on What You Can Control: You can control the quality of your applications, your networking efforts, and your self-care. You cannot control a company's hiring timeline or communication strategy. Redirect your energy to actionable steps.
Engage in Distractions/Hobbies: Don't let the job search consume your entire life. Make sure you're still doing things you enjoy, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies. This helps prevent burnout and keeps your spirits up.
Learn to Detach: It's hard, but try not to tie your self-worth to whether you hear back from a company. Their silence is often a reflection of their internal processes (or lack thereof), not a judgment on your capabilities.
It's a tough situation, and your feelings are completely valid. You're dealing with a system that often lacks transparency and empathy for the applicant's experience. Keep applying, keep refining your approach, and try to protect your mental energy as much as possible.
Here's an image that might capture that feeling of being stuck in application limbo:
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