Are you Getting Laid Off? Tips on How to Know & What to Do Next

Malcolm Forbes once said that “When those with the ability at their job get to thinking they can’t be done without, they’re already on their way out.”

In this unstable economy and competitive job market, it’s always a good idea to stay humble, remain motivated, and more importantly, to be self-aware. In addition to being laid off, there’s nothing worse than being caught off-guard.Here are some tell-tale signs that it’s time for you to polish up your resume:

1. Company Changes: Whenever a company goes through any kind of change i.e. mergers, acquisitions, divisional/departmental shifts, etc., they may conduct company-wide inspections across the board to see where they can increase efficiency and decrease costs. Translation? Your job maybe in danger.
2. Decreased Profits: If your company’s profits have been stagnant or worse, rapidly decreasing, companies will tend to cut departments that generate the least profit like in Marketing, and high-paying management positions.
3. Request to Share Your Work Information: Be wary if you’re asked to share your files, client contact details, and to update a co-worker or your direct supervisor on your projects. If you’re asked to provide this kind of information, chances are your company is looking to let you go and give your responsibilities to someone else.
4. Exclusion from Projects: If you notice that you’re no longer included in departmental meetings or projects or your opinions are no longer being asked by your boss, it maybe because you’re no longer considered a crucial member of the team and more importantly, to the company.
5. Less Responsibilities: Similarly, if you find that you’re gradually being stripped of some of your responsibilities, it’s a sure-fire sign that something unpleasant is on the horizon. Companies generally tend to keep employees who bring value to the company and get rid of those who don’t have as much responsibilities anymore.
6. Denied Promotion: In the finance industry, it’s a well-known fact that if you don’t receive a year-end bonus, expect a pink slip heading your way. The point is that if your efforts aren’t rewarded and your co-workers are, then you need to re-examine your job performance. If you  get passed up for promotion over someone else who is less-experienced and less qualified than you, it’s a confirmation that your company may not find you as valuable to keep.

As recruitment experts, here’s our advice to you:

• Don’t get blindsided. Be aware of what is going on around you. Keep your eyes and ears open to office rumors and observe how your co-workers and upper management are treating you.
• Request real-time feedback from your boss. This will show your boss your willingness to  improve your work performance.
• Document your accomplishments so you can share your work socially and prove that you’re a valuable asset to the company.

Click here to read our Job Search 101 Guide!