Surviving the Uncertainty of Downsizing

Surviving another day at your job in today’s economy should now be considered an achievement. With many companies conducting or considering layoffs and downsizing, employees stress over the loss of their jobs. If not the loss of their employment, simple corporate cutbacks can damage an individual’s ability to earn a comfortable living. The pressure is on many companies to increase profitability and provide a wealthier future for stockholders. Unfortunately for employees, the easiest and quickest way to reduce operating costs is to reduce the labor force.

Stress in these situations is caused by the uncertainty of the situation. To protect yourself from this, it is important to rely on factual information rather than believe the hallway chatter. Do not be afraid to discuss your concerns with your manager or a corporate representative regarding the future outlook of your employment.

There are also ways that you can strengthen your chances of survival during these uncertain times. Too often, an employee will react negatively to the news that downsizing may occur. This affects work performance and attitude. In deciding who stays and who will be cut, managers will look to retain top performers who can handle any added responsibilities that come with a reduced workforce. Show that you can be that person, if you haven’t already in your tenure with the company. Do not base your value to the organization on your own opinion. It will not be your opinion that counts when the final decisions are made. Review your last performance evaluation and talk with your manager about ways you can increase your value. Take the initiative to learn new job skills within the department and gain the knowledge of where your department fits in with corporate objectives. The more you do and know, the harder it will be for the manager to release you.

Above all else, remain positive and professional throughout the entire process of a downsizing. The organization will need people who can remain positive and influence others who survived to continue representing the company to its customer base.

With this survival guide to downsizing, you will be able to increase your chance of sustaining your employment and decrease the stress in your life. Now that is a win-win situation.