She called me and was completely stressed out. I worked on her husband’s resume a few months back, and she was the one who called and appreciated the work I did. She said the day she starts looking out; she will reach out to me. A perfect couple who were clear on what they want in their careers.

Today her voice was shaky. I could sense the nervousness and stress in her voice over the call. I said, what’s the matter?” I thought this would be something related to her job. After all, I hear so many voices every minute of my day where many professionals are struggling to find the right opportunities. But her pain was different.

I thought she would also say, “I LOST MY JOB.”

But

She said, “I LOST MY HUSBAND.” It was Covid.

The line went silent. My memories took me back to the conversations I had with her husband. He was a Service Delivery Lead with one of the MNCs (I can’t take the name here) in Bangalore. A fantastic career and a true leader.
I gathered my thoughts but kept quiet. My lips were sealed. She said, “I need help. Would you please work on my resume now? I need to plan a better career as I am the only bread earner for my family. She had two kids and In-laws to take care of now.”

I asked her to share her resume, promised I would do my best, and kept the phone.

I started scrolling my Linkedin wall up and down. I Don’t know what I was looking for. But then, one job posting caught my attention.

Role: Service Delivery Lead
Org: IT MNC ( Same as his)
Loc: Bangalore
Posted 2 weeks back. Applications 500

This was his role. They are looking for a replacement.

People get replaced professionally but leave a permanent void in our personal lives.

Value each other. Respect each other. And Plan for the worst.

I am speechless.