Since the layoffs were announced, I’ve tried to do what I can to get ready. I updated my resume and applied for other jobs. (Even had an interview.) I’ve thought seriously about making a career change and what I really want for my work. I looked hard at our finances and tried to build an extra 4-6 weeks of cushion just in case. (The $1200 from the government was a big help here.) I’ve even thought about going back to school, although I’ve settled for taking some LinkedIn classes, which are actually pretty good. The pandemic and now this were the kick in the butt I needed to focus on what I really want to do with my life. The layoffs are awful, for sure, and I get it if others think differently. But at least for me, time to look forward.
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I prepared for this a couple of years ago. I have wife and family, just my income. I have a side business, 6 month emergency fund, cut my expense by 30% and could cut more. I will get a one year severance and I think I would also get unemployment. Thank god I planned for this and will be ok.
@xnj+168UV3Ym I thought the LinkedIn classes on personal branding and interview techniques were good. Some people may already know these things, but I learned a lot. I’ve always heard people talk about “personal brand” but I didn’t really know what that meant. I’m also seriously considering doing one of the learning paths like “Become a Business Analyst” or “Become a Project Manager.” Those appeal to me. But I’m also trying to think about whether I should push myself with something different like “Become a Social Media Marketer.“ I don’t know yet if I’ll do any of those but I’ve definitely thought about it. I’ve gone through a lot of emotions — sad, angry, disappointed, frustrated, upset. But now I’ve decided to look forward, not back. Basically trying to find ways to invest in myself and my family’s future.
From the Garbage Can
It smells so much better here than it did in the meat grinder. Being free from the blood squeeze, knowing that all my effort was for a meaningless cause, and at best would be used to fill the fuel tank of an investors yacht this weekend. Awwww! What was I thinking, day after day, lol. Working for men and not for God. Hey Tony, nobody buys your videos and efforts to seem caring or heart felt where you soften your voice and try to tame your hand gestures. We can tell that they are produced from your corporate toilet stall. Just flush and get on with banking your bonuses. Don't forget to wash your hands...often.
Thanks for the pep talk Tom!
OP here. I get what you saying. But they’ve decided what they’ve decided and done what they’ve done. At least for me, I’m going to focus on what is in my control rather than focusing on things not in my control. Frankly, I’m glad to have the extra weeks to prepare. It took me and my family some time to process, so the extra time was helpful. Now, we’re looking forward.
OP, can I ask what classes you found beneficial on Linked In?
Appreciate the “lift yourself up by your bootstraps”, post... very refreshing.
Thanks!
Kudos for preparing. A lot of people here just do a lot of whining. However I will say the layoffs and this "Transformative Growth" BS should have been delayed a year or so especially considering it has nothing to do with money loss but padding the already fat pockets of the fat cats at the top. They could have had some compassion to let the pandemic pass and the job market to improve before tossing people away like garbage.. And the way the company from top to bottom has handled this is a sorry disgrace. School children could have done better. They said this would be done with dignity and respect and transparency. They have done the exact opposite.