2011 starts with a zap!

[123]

'Zap' is the sound of my job disappearing. Just before the New Year, and my scheduled vacation, I was informed that I was part of a round of layoffs. Business is down, sales forecast is bleak, etc. My last day is January 27th and then the adventure begins.

Next week, I'll have plenty to contemplate while lounging on the beach. Not the stuff I had planned to contemplate but life has its own plans for us.

 

[pete_c]

Sorry to hear about the news 123.

 

[Digger]

Also sorry to hear.

As bad as your news is it could be a little worse. Where I work they call you down to Human Resources and within 20 minutes you no longer exist. No warning, no chance to clean out your desk, no chance to say goodbye to friends (heck one guy was denied going to wash his hands that were full of grease from working on a project). It sounds like your company has a little more compassion (although the timing stinks).

After almost 2 years of being laid off and called back for less pay and less hours countless times I am finally back on full pay and full time, however, they let my boss go completely and I have both job responsibilities now. Not sure who got the better end of the deal (he is actually happier he said).

Most people that were let go where I work choose to try something different. Not everyone has found jobs (even some that were let go over 2 years ago) but some found work within a few weeks. Those that kept a positive attitude seem to be the ones with better luck finding a job.

Take your work contact information from vendors etc and network.

GOOD LUCK!

 

[roussell]

Good Luck 123, I was in the exact same boat last January. It took me until Sept 27th to find something but I love my new job and the people I work with are great. On top of all that my commute is now less that a mile from home. Everything worked out great for me and I'm sure it will for your too. If you can afford it, take some time off to "reset" before even looking for something else. That helped me more than anything. I had to shake off all of the "bad programming" from 9 years in a less than ideal place before I could present my true self to potential employers.

Terry

 

[tmbrown97]

We lost a big contract - equal to over 10% of our business, effective 12/31... I had to say goodbye to some of my favorite managers I've worked with for over 10 years over the last couple days; as of today, they don't work for us anymore.

It's tough - but everyone I know who stays strong perseveres. Just stay strong and keep a focused path. As roussell said - make sure you relax and get your mind right first so you can be your best when it's time.

 

[etc6849]

123, I'm sorry to hear the news. You're an extremely bright individual, so I'm sure it will all work out for you in the end. Times must be very tuff in Canada too if they're letting go of talented people like yourself.

 

[123]

Thank you, everyone, for your kind words.

The Canadian economy did not suffer as much as the US. However, the primary market, for the product I was handling, was banking and retail in the USA. After two years of struggling with very soft demand, well, something had to give.

Given the current job market, I have no illusions about finding a job quickly, so I'm prepared, mentally and financially, for a long dry spell.

 

[samgreco]

123,

Sorry to hear this news. I'm sure that you will not be out for horribly long. But living through the long dry spell here, I feel your pain (haven't I heard that somewhere?)

Hang in there. I know I'm pulling for you.