How to deal with layoff/surplus from job?

[dzneprincess]

Hi all,
I am just wondering how some of you have dealt with a surplus or layoff situation at work? I am facing a possible surplus at work, and I am stressed out about it. What are some things that you have done if you were affected by a layoff?

I have given 5 yrs of my life ot this company, and it is so sad that I may no longer be there :-(

 

[Planogirl]

Hi. I'm sorry to hear that you're facing a possible layoff. I've been through this and it is difficult. At this point, I would wait and see what the company really has in mind. A friend of mine has survived a total of 4 layoffs at her company and worries each time that she'll be next but you never know. Don't make any big purchases and be mentally prepared. There really isn't much else you can do except maybe start job hunting if you're ready to move on whatever happens.

Good luck. {{{{Hugs}}}}

 

[Steve H.]

Speaking from experience, there's not much you can do, except keep your resume updated, keep your ears open for any job opportunities and keep waking up each morning and going to work.

You have little to no control over whether or not you are one of the layoffs, so try not to drive yourself nuts over that.

Hang in there.

 

[jamsmom]

I was with my last employer for 9 years! I am trying to get accustomed to unemployment. Reading the DIS helps because I know I am not the only one going through this and that there are others going through much worse.

Don't be stressed...there ma be time for that later...or not at all

 

[helenabear]

First of all, big {{HUGS}} to you. I've been there and it is very rough, I know. I work in telecommunications and I have seen really truly countless numbers of lay offs and working in that kind of atmosphere is terrible. First of all, try not to think that it will be you. I know that is so much harder that it sounds, but if you keep doing your job and keep doing the best you can at it. That will make you look better if you are "on the edge" (which I hope you are not) and it is much easier on you if you do keep your mind busy.

It isn't easy if you are left behind or let go. It is rough to watch your friends be walked out the door. I have no advice on how to deal with that, but I will tell you I went through many tearful good byes. My DH was laid off from his job and we had just bought a house but he went out and got a temp job right away so he wouldn't be at home the whole time. It also kept us out of debt. He knew the decision wasn't personal though so he kept on plugging.

Just hang in there and best of luck to you no matter what happens.

 

[Lucky4me]

For the last 5 years we have lived with the threat of DH losing his job. Every 3 months the pink slips get handed out. It's not a good feeling to think you may be next. Last year we finally made solid plans on what we would do if and when it happens. We feel much less stressed now.

Start thinking about what you'd like to see happen if you do get laid off and start making plans now. Update your resume, look around and see what jobs are out there and maybe look at going back to college. If and when it happens you'll be that much ahead of everyone else. The stress you're feeling now will lessen and you'll feel great knowing you're ready to face whatever happens.

Good luck!

 

[dzneprincess]

The main thing I am worried about right now, well there are a couple of things. RIght now, I am still on maternity leave, so I am not "IN" with things right now, does that make sense? So I get all my info from the union hall. The other thing, is that we just bought a brand new vehicle to "hold" all of us! LOL We are a family of 6 now, and we NEEDED a bigger vehicle. Now, if I do lose my job, we will be able to make our financial obligations, but it will be T_I_G_H_T around here..........ouch......that just scares me.........I know that there is no sense in me worrying, as I can not control anything, but that is easier said that done. kwim?


helenabear, it is funny that you mention telecommunications, because that is the type of company that I work for. What makes me soooooooooo angry, is the situation. I am actually not surplussed. But about 6 people in Atlanta with like 30 + years of service, have been surplussed. They have enough time to retire, the company will also give them 90 weeks pay + their pension if they leave the company, but yet they have the option of declining all that, moving here and bumping me out of my job! So my future depends on their decision..........

 

[caitycaity]

Been there, done that. I know it is stressful, but as steve said, try not to worry too much b/c when it comes down to it, it is not in your hands.

i would recommend polishing up your resume and actively looking for job openings now -- while you have a job. actually, even when i have a stable job i am always looking to see what is out there.

 

[Steve H.]

Originally posted by caitycaity
i would recommend polishing up your resume and actively looking for job openings now -- while you have a job. actually, even when i have a stable job i am always looking to see what is out there.

Good point, caity -- these days, even if you have the most stable job in the world, it's a good idea to always keep one eye on any job opportunities that may arise.

 

[helenabear]

Wow, if you are in telecommunications, I must say you are blessed. Most of the ones I have been watching have been in trouble for the last 3 years or so. Just hang in there, polishing your resume is a great idea and if you can make it on your DH's salary, just think that it won't be so stressful to find a job. At least you all will survive w/o going in debt. I know that sounds so weird to talk like that, but my DH and I went through a stage where we found out exactly what we needed to make combined to be "okay" So now if I lose my job, I know what salary range I need to get to not go in debt. So while it sounds scary, also remember that it doesn't have to be a permanant situation with your DH only working.

Enjoy your maternity leave... and I know from my dad's company, all that were seriously offered the early retirement took it... and no moving would have been involved to keep their job. I am sure it will all work out for the best for you

 

[dcgrumpy]

I am also in telecommunications. I was just declared surplus 2 weeks ago. Luckily for me I have 15 years so I think I am safe. DH worked for the same company until last December when he was laid off.

I agree with what a lot of others have said. Start looking now. Tell family, friends, etc... to keep their eyes open for you. Since you are on maternity leave, you may have more opportunities to get your resume ready, go on interviews etc...