I am in total shock. Yes, I was hearing all the financial news, and being more careful with spending, but you just never feel that it could happen to you. I feel like this is a bad dream.
I've been working since I was 16 years old: part time during school and college and full time otherwise. I've never been laid off before, I was always the one in control of the situation and looked for new positions on my own terms.
I work(ed) in R&D for a division of a large, very well known outdoor/travel company. Recently we went through a structural re-organization. The first thing our new president did was eliminate 25% of the positions in our office, including my own. My boss was almost in tears because there was nothing he could do and he was being told to outsource half of his staff to India.
I consider myself very lucky to have received a good severance package and having two more weeks of work. I'm glad I have a fiance that can support us so I can buy food/gas and pay my mortgage and utilities. I am glad that I am healthy and I have friends and family to lean on.
My wedding is 2 weeks away. This couldn't have happened at a worse time. I've talked the thrifty talk now I will really have to walk the walk, like I never have before...
OMG I was just laid off
September 19th, 2008 at 10:41 pm
September 19th, 2008 at 10:52 pm 1221864730
September 19th, 2008 at 10:54 pm 1221864851
((hugs))
September 19th, 2008 at 11:56 pm 1221868598
September 20th, 2008 at 01:02 am 1221872537
After 17 years in the corporate world (and surviving 2 mergers and several down-sizings), the company I used to work for closed my office and I was laid off. That was about 6 years ago. It was initially gut-wrenching, but in the long run, it has turned out to be a good thing.
As one who's been there, I can assure you that you will get through it.
And while you probably don't need any advice since you sound like you have a good head on your shoulders, here is some anyway:
- Sounds like you have a good relationship with your boss. Get a letter of reference from him if you can (if company policy allows). If he's busy, type it up yourself and ask him to sign it!
- Burn no bridges. Make a gracious exit. Someday, you may want the folks you are leaving to give you a reference, a lead, or even a job!
- Check out your state's unemployment insurance system.
- Make sure you've got health coverage, whether through your new husband's company or COBRA.
- Take it easy on yourself!
Good luck to you, and I hope you enjoy that wedding.
September 20th, 2008 at 01:54 am 1221875699
Your wedding is a time of joy... do not let this news put a damper on your celebration. You will survive and be better for it. And, I agree with scfr... she gives very good advice as usual.
Good luck!
September 20th, 2008 at 02:48 am 1221878910
Remaining grateful means that you will keep yourself upbeat and open with clear eyes. Those qualities really look good in an interview.
Looking for another job as a job keeps you out there and organized.
And don't be afraid to take advantage of unemployment, COBRA, etc, even if do some temp work. You've paid into those systems after all.
September 20th, 2008 at 03:36 am 1221881802
Sending good job vibes your way!
September 20th, 2008 at 03:37 am 1221881858
September 20th, 2008 at 04:23 am 1221884606
September 20th, 2008 at 11:15 pm 1221952520
September 21st, 2008 at 12:48 am 1221958113
Good luck with the wedding, and the job hunting! ((hugs))
September 21st, 2008 at 04:10 am 1221970247
September 22nd, 2008 at 03:00 pm 1222095629