RSS
Home
7 top warning signs that a layoff may be around the corner
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
AP Photo / Nick Ut
With the massive number of layoffs and downsizing, many workers are asking themselves if there were any warning signs that they could have seen that would have provided a clue that a layoff was imminent. Usually the warning signs are plentiful if you pay attention to the activity going on around you.
1. Frequent closed door management meetings. The surest sign of layoff activity is increased management meetings. Downsizing needs to be planned, budgets gone over. Management meeting activity will increase as they make preparations on deciding when and where to drop the ax.
2. Office gossip of impending layoffs. Ordinarily you may not pay attention to the vague rumors started around the coffee pot. When the rumors turn to layoffs and downsizing, you better start paying attention. Even if the stories are wildly exaggerated, there is usually some basis for the truth.
3. Increased information about employer EAP benefits. If your company offers Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) they start early in reminding you that the benefits are available. As companies start to lay off they realize the stress that employees may be under.
4. Has the workload decreased sharply? Management may start to realize that they don’t need as many workers. They will slash the budget by getting rid of the dead weight.
5. Has the company instituted a hiring freeze? Not hiring additional staff when there are vacant positions is proof that the company is considering cutting positions. Hopefully they will start by cutting the vacant positions first.
6. Increased performance management activity? Marked increase in disciplinary actions is a subtle sign of downsizing. Most companies will start by laying off the non-performers. Documentation of poor performance will help them to decide which employees to keep and which to let go.
7. Is there an increase in focus group meetings on how to do the work faster, cheaper and better? The company is looking for ways to cut the budget. Removing “extra” employees will help streamline production.
If you see all the signs of an imminent lay off, then you may need to start taking a few personal assessments. These assessments not only include your job knowledge, skills and market potential, but also your personal finances and current life style in a stark, before and after scenario. This doesn’t mean that you should go into maximum stress overdrive, but a little planning now, will go a long way in being ready if the time comes. (Please note the word “if”).
For more info: The Unemployment Survival Guide
Related Articles:
Add a Comment
