Advice Needed-Getting Laid off

[NWOhioAngela]

I'm not supposed to know yet, but I know that I am slated to be laid off by the end of the year--it could be any day now. My subordinate who is my boss' kid, is taking over my job (again I'm not supposed to know this yet, but I do) I'm kinda getting a raw deal here, but it is what it is.

Any advice on how to handle this with some grace? I'm tryin' to be a Tigger here, and not an Eeyore, but its tough. I GET that I am certainly not the only one going through this, indeed, several people in my office are in trouble, but the way its being handled it just not nice and I'm pretty frustrated.

On the other hand, I now know why I didn't have any trouble getting my request for vacation time in January approved!

 

[DVCsince02]

Angela, I wish you the best of luck searching for a new job. As hard as it is, try to remember you are slated for bigger and better things.
((hugs))

 

[UrsulasShadow]

I'm not supposed to know yet, but I know that I am slated to be laid off by the end of the year--it could be any day now. My subordinate who is my boss' kid, is taking over my job (again I'm not supposed to know this yet, but I do) I'm kinda getting a raw deal here, but it is what it is.

Any advice on how to handle this with some grace? I'm tryin' to be a Tigger here, and not an Eeyore, but its tough. I GET that I am certainly not the only one going through this, indeed, several people in my office are in trouble, but the way its being handled it just not nice and I'm pretty frustrated.

On the other hand, I now know why I didn't have any trouble getting my request for vacation time in January approved!

I'm so sorry...getting laid off isn't easy, even when you know it's coming.

Know you're in the same boat with a lot of people. Put in for unemployment right away. Use every day that you are unemployed as a "work day", in which you get up and WORK at finding another job. Spruce up your resume, call some friends and acquaintances, let them know you're available. Also, know that a lot of people are unemployed right now, and it might take a little while to find the right job. Don't lose hope.

 

[GabbyMom]

Now that you know your getting laid off, start looking for a new job. I hope you find your dream job before you finish with this one. heck if you get super lucky you could leave first .

Good luck. I hope everything works out for you.

 

[wilde_oscar]

if it were an episode of dynasty, someone would get pushed down the stairs and there would be a fight in the board room where fabulous gowns with big shoulder pads come up looking amazing after your stunt double rolls around on t he floor.

and start every meeting by sitting at the head of the table and say, "I'm the head of Denver Carrington now!"

 

[Mouse Skywalker]

I just wanted to throw in my support for you too Angela. That is absolutely awful. I know how you feel. I lost my job last year, and I very much became Eeyore about it. However, I persevered and landed on my feet, and am actually much happier now in the position I am currently in. You can do it. Hang tough, take it day by day, and listen to the podcast for your reminder of a happy place.

 

[NWOhioAngela]

if it were an episode of dynasty, someone would get pushed down the stairs and there would be a fight in the board room where fabulous gowns with big shoulder pads come up looking amazing after your stunt double rolls around on t he floor.

I beg your pardon, Rex! I do all my OWN stunts!

 

[exwdwcm]

wow, so sorry. You definitely aren't alone, but I know that doesn't make it any easier. I've been laid off twice and in my experience, i can tell you- file for unemployment immediately. Make 'finding a job' your job. Networking was key for me- every job I have had was through an old friend, boss, coworker or vendor. Put the word out now through your network. And stay active- i started to get depressed at one point due to it- i felt like my worth/value went to nothing without my job after a while. so keep your chin up and good luck!!!!

oh and while your particular situation really blows and the dynasty/stairs thing sounds pretty dang tempting, i try never to burn bridges. you really never know when you might need a good reference or something else might change in the future.

 

[daneenm]

So sorry to hear this Angela. Being laid off really takes a toll on your self-esteem. I completely agree with those who have posted before...treat getting a job like your job...network, network, network...unless you truly want to make a statement and do not want a good recommendation don't make a stink over the circumstances (unless, of course, you think the action is illegal).

You never know, you could end up with your dream job.

Holding good thoughts for you!
Daneen

 

[halliesmommy01]

Hey Angela,

I was just laid off today. I am taking a couple days to get my thoughts together as it came as a little bit of a shock. I could see the writing on the wall for bit. I have some contacts that are putting out feelers for me and will take care of the unemployment part tomorrow or Wednesday. I am trying to laugh and spend time with my kids and DH. I also am in college so it gives me another diversion. We have a couple options that we are looking at right now so that is helping. If you need a shoulder or just someone to commiserate with please feel free to PM me.

Becky

 

[wilde_oscar]

I beg your pardon, Rex! I do all my OWN stunts!

I prefer to have my stunt double wear a cheap knock off imitation.

 

[Luv Bunnies]

Aw, that's a bummer! Is the company big enough that there might be other positions open?

DH has been with the same company for 21 years. He's been "laid off" twice during that time. Once his position was eliminated and this past summer his entire department was moved out of state. Both times, he was able to find another open position and never had to actually leave the company. Enough people there know him and his abilities and it was easier to stay where he was a known commodity.

Good luck to you in your job search!

 

[YellowMickeyPonchos]

Angela and Becky,

I feel for both of you. I was laid of in January and it's been 11 months now with no job (nuclear med techs are a bit too specialized for this down economy...). I've even tried to change careers and it hasn't worked yet. People in my field are holding tight and it doesn't look like it's going to be any better for me for at least 6 months to a year. The only positions open have been for death, retirement, and moving to another state.

I can't sugar coat it - you will have to put in double the effort that you normally would these days and you will have to rely heavily on networking. Just don't let it get you down. I unfortunately have, but am working on trying to fix that. Gotta do what you can to feed your kids and make a living.

Best wishes and feel free to PM me. I learned a lot in the career counselling course they gave us with our separation package - doesn't work in my field, but it's still useful.

I also agree with Mindy - get unemployment right away. I was stupid and thought my contacts would help me get on my feet within a month, so I waited almost 2 months before doing it. Dumb move. Don't be proud - that money is yours. You paid into it, so take it before someone else does!

 

[SFBayDon]

Hang in there. We are going through the same thing out here in CA. We are expecting 30-35% of the company to be let go before this weekend. This is HUGE, but we have known this is coming for about 3 weeks. Knowing does not make it much easier. If this is the first time you have been through this it is not easy at first. Just know this in most cases is not personal. In most cases it is based on business need.

Here are some tips I have taken until I know if I am in or out. (Said with a Project Runway inflection)

· Reduce any 401K or stock purchases to you can get the most cash in you last checks.
· If you really need the cash change you W2 to 99 dependants. This is not something I have done, but I know some people are doing this now to get the cash in their checks
· Work hard to fill the time until it happens.
· Be sure to take personal contacts and other information you need home so you can contact you references.
· Leave with dignity and grace. No matter how or when it happens be ready to leave on a good note. You never know where you may riun into someone form this job.
· If you are a professional spend some time using a contact like Linked in to get as many contacts for your new job search
· Write down the questions now that you want to ask at your exit session. .How long do you get benefits, what happens to 401K, do they offer help in finding a new job?

Above all just take it one day at a time. There are flows of emotions, just work through day, and lean on the people on these boards, THEY ARE AMAZING

Don

 

[safetymom]

I am so sorry to hear you are being laid off. Just be kind to yourself.

 

[NWOhioAngela]

Aww, you guys are great! Thanks for your support!

The thing is I don't even really like this job anymore and SOMEDAY this will all be a blessing in disguise. The company is small, and getting smaller all the time and I am worried it will fail all together. It may be better to go now than have to deal with the months of stress trying to keep it afloat. I've already been on a 10% paycut for 5 months doing that! I will survive!

Thanks again to all my board buddies!

 

[BRobson]

Sorry to hear your news guys - the UK is not fairing much better and jobs you thought were safe are no more !!!

I have no advice but hope you guys find something else soon

 

[NWOhioAngela]

Hey Pete!
I SO think you need to have a Pink Slip for Podcast Cruise drawing for the Christmas show! You're only eligible for a special drawing if you can produce a copy of a 2008 pink slip or other suitable documentation. How cool would that be!

 

[DVCsince02]

Hey Pete!
I SO think you need to have a Pink Slip for Podcast Cruise drawing for the Christmas show! You're only eligible for a special drawing if you can produce a copy of a 2008 pink slip or other suitable documentation. How cool would that be!

I have one of those... oh, wait... I already won the cruise. I can share it for the right price.

 

[cocowum]

No advice here just (((((hugs))))).