Signs a Job Layoff May Be Imminent
What to Look Out for if Rumors of Layoffs Begin Circulating
Jun 5, 2009
Losing one's job due to layoffs is one of the most stressful and emotionally taxing experiences in life. Not only does the ex-employee find him or herself cut off from the monthly salary, but the worker also loses health insurance and the fun of the daily office camaraderie. Enduring a downsizing can really be a difficult, isolating experience.
Why Do Layoffs Happen?
Companies lay off workers for a variety of reasons. The company may have grown too fast and can no longer sustain the cost of their larger workforce. Stock prices may have taken a nose dive. Demand for products and/or services may have waned. A merger or buyout may have taken place. The business plan was inadequate. Or, the company faces too much competition. But what are some of the signs the company may send workers home with a pink slip in their hands?
Rumors of Layoffs and Company Financial Problems Begin Circulating
If a general rumor of layoffs begins to circulate but is vague and unspecific, it may or may not be true. However, if rumors are specific as to what departments may be cut, the poor financial condition of the company, and how many workers may lose their jobs, there may be some truth to it. In this case, the employee would be wise to update the resume and begin seeking work elsewhere.
Sudden Silence, Empty Cubicles, and Disappearing Bosses
If the office suddenly becomes quieter during a period of layoff rumors with cubicles sitting empty and entire floors with only a handful of workers present, this may be a sign the company is about to downsize. The absentees are likely taking their accumulated sick leave and vacation time or are otherwise out looking for new employment. Worse, the boss has quietly left the company and is not replaced.
Employee Workload Suddenly Decreases
A slowing workload means there is less demand for the company's products and/or services. If the slowdown in projects is so severe that it causes daily boredom, coupled with rampant rumors of downsizing, the employee may be wise to brush up on interviewing skills and seek work elsewhere.
Company Cuts Back on Perks and Office Supplies
If the company begins cutting perks such as going from paid coffee service to a simple 12-cup carafe drip coffeemaker, this may be a sign the company is about to announce layoffs. Also look out if the company begins to prevent its employees from ordering additional office supplies or if it denies requests to upgrade computer and peripheral equipment.
CEO Suddenly Begins “Company is Doing Great” Campaign
If company profits are astounding, products/services are in high demand, and new employees are filling cubicles every day, the company is likely doing very well. However if the CEO initiates a media campaign talking up the company during a time of layoff rumors and uncertain profitability, it could very well be a sign of impending layoffs.
Signs including rumors of downsizing, silence, empty cubicles, disappearing bosses who aren't replaced, decrease in workload, cutbacks in perks and office supplies, and CEO media puff pieces may indicate an impending layoff. Workers who believe their jobs may be in jeopardy would be wise to get references and contact information from coworkers in addition to updating the resume and interviewing skills.
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