what to do? job gripe

[dr.mel_PT]

my company has been going through a really tough time with the economy. we've halved our staff since april 08. five of my close coworkers got laid off last week, most of which have been here longer than i have!! we also took our 2nd paycut this month, so now im down 10% from where i was at last year.

everyone's concern seems to be that this office is going to close if the economy doesnt turn around (we are a satellite office, so while we generate most of the income for the company, some of us think our files might be transferred to the main office and the satellites will be shut down). the question is, should i look for a new job now or hang in there until i get laid off, if that time happens to come? im just so scared because its usually last in, first out at new jobs, but at the same time i cant afford to get laid off and collect unemployment which would hardly cover my bills.

times are scary....

 

[lioness]

I would get my resume done and start looking. My company had layoffs earlier this year and while we are doing better, I'm still cautious. I know I'm not even on the list to be let go but I still have my resume done and posted on a couple of job sites. I prefer to be prepared in case it happens. That way I can hit the ground running and I don't have to update my resume.

Looking for a job, submitting your resume and going on a job interview doesn't mean you HAVE to take a job. If you do go into an interview you can ask questions regarding the state of the company. I always ask that question on job interviews anyway.

Good Luck!

 

[janie1234]

This makes me so sad. My husbands work totally cleaned house and fired a bunch of management. I still have that worry in the back of my head but I don't believe that they would let him go, . . he's pretty much the only management left in his department. With that said I don't think it hurts to be prepared but I wouldn't panic just yet. Take it a day at a time and if anything really kick butt at work and show them how valuable an employee you are.

 

[LauraMax]

Def. start looking. What's the harm? You might even end up w/something better.

I start looking for a new job the day I start the old one. Onward & upward!

 

[andtckrtoo]

Definitely start looking. It is easier to find a job when you have a job then when you don't. You may not find something right away, but at least you'll have your resume all buffed and polished.

One thing I would recommend is to try not to let the rumors get to you. Easier said than done, I know, but seriously, rumors are just that and there is always a lot of talk after a big layoff. Keep your head down and your nose to the grindstone and work. No use getting all hot and bothered over something about which you have no control. Just know you have your resume out there and are looking in case anything happens.

 

[GMonkey]

I would definitely keep an eye open and your resume and a fresh interview suit ready. Also, are there any online courses you can take from a local college that are in your field which would make you more competitive? An economic downturn is an excellent time to revisit education.

 

[JT]

Get your resume together, get on Monster and the others, and network like crazy.

 

[dr.mel_PT]

I would definitely keep an eye open and your resume and a fresh interview suit ready. Also, are there any online courses you can take from a local college that are in your field which would make you more competitive? An economic downturn is an excellent time to revisit education.

I'm actually studying for the GMATs now for a masters in business. I figured since I eventually want to get my masters degree, why not just get it done now?

 

[morningstar]

my company has been going through a really tough time with the economy. we've halved our staff since april 08. five of my close coworkers got laid off last week, most of which have been here longer than i have!! we also took our 2nd paycut this month, so now im down 10% from where i was at last year.

everyone's concern seems to be that this office is going to close if the economy doesnt turn around (we are a satellite office, so while we generate most of the income for the company, some of us think our files might be transferred to the main office and the satellites will be shut down). the question is, should i look for a new job now or hang in there until i get laid off, if that time happens to come? im just so scared because its usually last in, first out at new jobs, but at the same time i cant afford to get laid off and collect unemployment which would hardly cover my bills.

times are scary....

Do you have the kind of relationship with your boss where you can go in and ask what your status is? They must be aware that employees have concerns and if you are clear that you love your job and want to stay, and just want to know if you should be worried, your boss may be able to give you some direction as to what you should do.