Whether it is downsizing or outsourcing, workers need to heed the warning signs and learn to move on. Let’s face it: you have little or no control over the company’s bottom line, but you do control your destiny. Hanging perilously by a broken rung or a lifeline is a scary thought. Rather than being paralyzed by fear and indecision, you need to step off the corporate ladder and leave your job. Not easy, but it can be done.
Layoffs and cutbacks are a sign
Are you facing an uncertain job situation? I am in that unfortunate position right now with the loss of my job. The writing is on the wall. In Alberta, we are struggling with the ailing oil/gas industry. The warning signs are there: is the industry in turmoil or is the business unable to stay competitive? Climate change is inevitable so we must transition to cleaner energy (renewable sources). Continuous layoffs and cutbacks are a sure bet that the company needs to make changes with the times. Not all companies are transparent, but employees should still be in the loop. Maybe management or your supervisor is dropping hints about re-organization? Time to re-evaluate your position and possibly look for other work or side gigs.
Don’t burn your bridges
You have heard the phrase about leaving a good impression. Mostly, true and you certainly don’t want to leave the company with a “blaze of glory.” Even if you are getting “shafted” for no reason of your own. Even a complacent passive worker needs to leave his/her mark. Sometimes, there is an opportunity to cross-train or participate in a transitional phase. Building good job references through healthy work relationships will pay dividends down the road. Don’t be disgruntled or disrespectful to your work colleagues. Not a good idea. If you work in a small tight industry, this form of misbehavior may hurt your chances of securing a future job.
Do a mental health check
Time to step off the low-morale “company train” that is going nowhere. The company’s lacklustre bottom line and its financial woes do not make for a good healthy work environment. Snarky boss yelling at you because he/she didn’t make his sales targets. If you work in a hostile or volatile environment, something is going to break. Easy to get disgruntled and lose your cool with a flood of emotions. Perhaps, there is counselling available or you just need to de-stress? Don’t wait till the job and work environment is out of control. Voice your concerns, deflate the situation and try to find some resolution. Don’t feel ashamed or guilty or let pride stand in your way.
Be clear with your directive and goals
Change can be good, but also can be a cold hard lesson. Unless you map out a backup plan or have a fall-back position, it may be hard to get back on your feet. You may want to play it safe and wait for some sort of company severance package upon termination. However, if your job is threatened, you need an exit plan. No guarantees you will get compensated for all your hard work and service with the company. Sadly, not all employees are valued and appreciated. Just be aware of the consequences of your actions if you leave on a bad note. Upon termination, perhaps this might be a good time to upgrade your skills or start your own consulting business. Be clear with your next plan of action whether you are leaving or making a lateral move within the company. Remember, no employee’s job is stable and secure.
I am not in it for work so I’m outta here!
Do you love your job or do you treat it as a “survival job”? Your days are numbered so you should explore new job opportunities and re-evaluate your career goals. My daily commute to work by train and bus was monotonous and tiring at times. Your journey doesn’t end and neither does mine. Everyone faces adversity and challenges in life and it makes us stronger. If you face a possible job loss or want to get out of a toxic work environment, maybe it is time for you to step off the corporate ladder. Don’t be ashamed or let your pride or stubbornness hold you back. We all need to switch gears once in a while, right?
