Action Plan

[Candy]

More likely than not, I'm getting furloughed this month. I knew something was up since December. Last Friday, my group of 5 was told we are downsizing one person. I'm just happy to have lasted this long with a company I have great respect for! <Reaches for another tissue.>

This has caused an awful stress to my life. I've broke out in a terrible rash covering the majority of my body. Today will be the third trip to the doctor to figure out what is "not" causing my allergy type symptoms. I blame it on nerves.

ACTION PLAN

1) I am in the process of refinancing my condo (with a return of 100% plus). The mortgage guy, on vacation in Florida, is having the papers over-nighted today for my signature. He is a good person to be making this happen quicker than the normal procedure.

2) I will be in my last Senior Semester starting the first week of March. DeVry will then blast my resume out to prospective companies. I would start sending the resume out now, but I just can't focus.

3) I am expecting a great tax return - first time homeowner.

FUTURE PLAN

I'll have about 25-30K cash to work with during this transition. I previously cashed out my 401K and savings to buy the condo, so I am taking a huge risk by not being more proactive with the job search.

I just applied to the Masters Program at Keller Graduate School of Management. I'm confident I will have no problem with the prerequisite exams. I plan to start in September. Luckily for me this term, my current courses, PSYCH305 is rather easy, and BUSN412 is the cool computer simulated business game. BTW, my "team" (2 chicks) is kicking butt with Cumulative Profit.

I don't believe I will have a problem finding a new job with the 7 years of operational management (computer/telephone based) and a BS in Technical Management. Heck, I may even find a position that pays more. :D

I am preparing myself for a major life change. I figure better safe than sorry. I just hate waiting for the announcement day.

Please, wish me luck on which ever outcome. 8-[

I’m sorry for distancing my favorite buddies these last couple of weeks.

[Argos]

Welcome among the downsized. :) Good luck whatever the path you´ll follow from now on.

[Kristophe]

Breathe, and roll with the punches. This isn't a door closing, but rather one being opened. At the very least, it looks like you're in a good position to deal with this right now. It's not fun, but don't worry yourself sick over it.

Here's hoping everything works out for the best :)

[pumpkinpie]

It's always good to have other plans in line should some unexpected change come up, so I'm not surprised you are keeping a good outlook for the future. It's not good physically, though to cause undue stress on your body. You say "more likely than not" you'll be laid off, with the only support (you gave us) was that one person out of the five will go. How sure are you that it's you? Until you know for sure, give your skin a break and try not to worry about it! I know, easy for me to say. But I'm a worrier myself, and I'm sure I'd do the same thing, so I am just giving you the same advice I'd hope someone would give me!

[Wally]

Ut's hit the nail on the head Candy. I know it's hard, but if you can try to focus on this as a great opportunity rather than something devasting, it'll really help you cope with the whole thing. . .

Best of luck in the near future!!! We're right here for you if needed! :)

[Candy]

How sure are you that it's you?
I don't know. That's what is killing me, mentally. All 5 of us are worrying. I am the best tech person at work (I find the needle in the haystack to solve complex phone/computer issues), so that may help me. I am also the person that doesn't follow the 'corporate' rules, so that may hurt me.

United is more the corporate type. :-?

[SeanF]

Candy, I just want you to know that I'm thinking of you and praying for you. You can't control what's going to happen anymore, so just roll with the punches as best you can.

I'm concerned for you, but I'm not worried about you - I know you can take care of yourself. :)

[Doodler]

I don't know. That's what is killing me, mentally. All 5 of us are worrying. I am the best tech person at work (I find the needle in the haystack to solve complex phone/computer issues), so that may help me. I am also the person that doesn't follow the 'corporate' rules, so that may hurt me.

United is more the corporate type. :-?

That would be their loss then. Nothing more annoying than a company that stresses rules over results.

[Candy]

I'm concerned for you, but I'm not worried about you - I know you can take care of yourself. :)
You sound like my mom.

About 10 years ago, I asked my mom why she doesn't call me everyday like she calls the other siblings. I told her it hurt my feelings.

She said that she worries about my brothers and sister, but she doesn't worry about me. She knows I can take care of myself. :D

[jamestox]

What Kristophe said, Candy. Keep breathing, roll with the punches, and work through what you need to do to keep going. If your mom has that much confidence in you, who are we to question that kind of judgement?

We're here pulling for you, thinking of you, and for you to talk with when you need it. Besides, the furlough isn't official yet (if you're even the one) so you have some time on your side. Make it work for you!

...and if you need to talk, well.... 8-[

J.

[Bawheid]

I don't know how these things work in the States but make sure you get everything you are entitled to. Don't feel sorry for United or loyalty to them if they let you go. Talk to a lawyer or your union.

[Candy]

I don't know how these things work in the States but make sure you get everything you are entitled to. Don't feel sorry for United or loyalty to them if they let you go. Talk to a lawyer or your union.
I’m okay with any decision United makes. Frankly, I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for United. Loyalty will be ever so deep for years to come. I’m not in a union. And I had a lawyer, but I released her of her duties, once I realized what the company was 'officially' planning.

[pumpkinpie]

How sure are you that it's you?
I don't know. That's what is killing me, mentally. All 5 of us are worrying. I am the best tech person at work (I find the needle in the haystack to solve complex phone/computer issues), so that may help me. I am also the person that doesn't follow the 'corporate' rules, so that may hurt me.

United is more the corporate type. :-?

Ugh--an office of 5 people all wondering if their job is in jeopardy? Does not make for a very sane working environment! How long does United intend to keep you waiting? Have *they* even decided yet? I don't think they should have told you someone would be fired and then make you sweat it out. Sounds too much like a Donald Trump reality show to me! Grrr....

[Swift]

Hey Candy, good luck. You know you have a bunch of friends here who are pulling for you. I certainly can understand the bit about not knowing being the worst part. But it sounds like you have your plan in place for whatever comes. My thoughts are with you.
<<<<<<<<<<<<< digital hug >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

[01101001]

Having been through the downsizing thing a few times, I find it useful to consider the events in terms of evolutionary psychology.

In the old, old days, short of immediate execution, one of the worst things society could do to an individual was banishment. It was virtually a death sentence, unless you could somehow hook up with another tribe. The vast bulk of our ancestors were the types who avoided banishment. It is in our makeup. It is supposed to hurt. The fear and pain is what prodded them, and now us, to avoid that fate, to survive.

Today, banishment is mostly the result of cold, analytical business decisions. Rationally, they often make a great deal of sense. Emotionally, they still hurt -- both the victims and the survivors.

I wish you much good luck on finding a new tribe! Hang in there.

[Doodler]

That's what bothers me about large corporate culture. That was absolutely tactless telling them that one of them was going to go and let them sweat out the wait. A tactful, and defensible, action on their part would be to make their decision far enough ahead that the person on notice of furlough could make arrangements for afterwards, without the other four being aware of it until it happened.

Utterly tasteless, typical suits.

[Candy]

Ugh--an office of 5 people all wondering if their job is in jeopardy? Does not make for a very sane working environment! How long does United intend to keep you waiting?
The decision is sometime this month. I keep waiting for someone to walk in at 530am to escort me off the premises stripping me of my badge. :cry:

A tactful, and defensible, action on their part would be to make their decision far enough ahead that the person on notice of furlough could make arrangements for afterwards, without the other four being aware of it until it happened.
Another co-worker is cashing in his 401 for preparation.

Thanks everyone for the encouraging words! :D

[Spacewriter]

I hope United would be more nice about it than simply escorting you off the premises like a used car. If they mistreat you tell them I'll launch a flyer's revolt! We'll start flying Jet Blue!

;)

[Candy]

I hope United would be more nice about it than simply escorting you off the premises like a used car. If they mistreat you tell them I'll launch a flyer's revolt! We'll start flying Jet Blue!

;)
Keep your fingers crossed. No visit, yet. 8-[

[R.A.F.]

Please, wish me luck on which ever outcome. 8-[

No problem...I wish you the very best of luck, and I know you'll "land on your feet" no matter what the outcome!

[frogesque]

Hang in there Candy Our whole factory got 'downsized' after 911 when confidence went out of the markets. Lost my house, job and just about everthing I worked hard for since I returned to the batchelor pool. Now I'm having fun, money's tight but I'm slowly building up my own business and making a go of things. There's always something better out there if you take a good look around.

We all found the worst thing was the uncertainty but once the 90 day's notice was given we felt more relaxed about it. Mostly the stress is the fear of the unknown and believe me I know how those rashes start to act up.

Take stock of your skills, you're a great communicator, sassy, and prepared to roll your sleeves up. You've a good brain too so DLTBGYD!

[Maha Vailo]

Sorry to hear about the downsizing, Candy. All I can say is: stay frosty, good luck with your studies, and here's hoping you find a new job.

- Maha Vailo

[Swift]

Sorry to hear about the downsizing, Candy. All I can say is: stay frosty, good luck with your studies, and here's hoping you find a new job.

- Maha Vailo
"Stay frosty" :-? Obviously comes from someone in Florida and not Chicago (or Cleveland) in the middle of winter. :lol:
Candy - stay sunny! :D

[zebo-the-fat]

I got the axe from a company I had worked for after 14 years, managed to get a similar job (at a lower pay grade), I stayed there for about 4 months then got a fantastic job doing (much) less work for more money than my original job! :D
So don't get to upset and keep your options open. I don't know how things work in the US, but I had my details on the internet with 4 or 5 job agencies, they did all the work and either emailed or phoned me when a suitable job came along. (In the UK the agency is not allowed to charge for the service, they get their fee from the employer.) I ended up doing something I had never even considered before, and I love it, so keep your eyes open and use ALL your experience.

GOOD LUCK! :D

[Candy]

Hey Zebo.

Once I reach the last semester of my senior year, DeVry University will blast my resume out to companies. This will be the first week of March 2005 (wow - next month). DeVry is considered a good school for employers in the Chicago area.

The good thing about me is that I have almost 8 years of on the job managerial skills and a diploma this June. Experience and a degree will help finding a job a lot easier than a younger person with no experience and a degree. At least, I hope.

Even if I don't lose my job, I will seek another one outside of the company. I just can't live on the edge any longer. It's not good for my health. Plus, working midnights is killing me physically and mentally.

I love United, but it's just not worth killing myself over any longer. :(

I got my refinancing papers yesterday, so I will mail those off today. Plus, I meet with an admission's counselor tonight. I am enrolling in the Masters Program at Kellers.

I now have the flu. I haven't been sick in over 4 years. :o

[Doodler]

I now have the flu. I haven't been sick in over 4 years. :o

Stress screws with your immune system as well as your head. I can imagine the pressure you've been under is pretty harsh.

Even if you aren't the one cut, its probably better for you to find someplace a little less cutthroat. Being toyed with like you have been is seriously messed up.

[Swift]

Candy, virtual hugs are of marginal help; virtual chicken soup is even less effective. :wink: Hope you get better in spite of that.

[pumpkinpie]

I got my refinancing papers yesterday, so I will mail those off today. Plus, I meet with an admission's counselor tonight. I am enrolling in the Masters Program at Kellers.

I now have the flu. I haven't been sick in over 4 years. :o

Will you meet the counselor in person? Can you reschedule? Stay home and take care of yourself, and save yourself from making a bad impression by exposing him/her to the flu!

[Candy]

Candy, virtual hugs are of marginal help; virtual chicken soup is even less effective. :wink: Hope you get better in spite of that.
http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/liebe/love-smiley-024.gif

Will you meet the counselor in person? Can you reschedule? Stay home and take care of yourself, and save yourself from making a bad impression by exposing him/her to the flu!
I just want to get everything done, since I took a vacation this week for this very purpose (and others). I can't put it off. I'll try not to infect him. :wink:

[mike alexander]

I actually made a big kettle of chicken soup last night. A virtual bowl is on the way. Hope you like ginger and garlic. :D

I've been downsized before myself. Hang in there, and keep those double-entendres coming

[pumpkinpie]

Candy, virtual hugs are of marginal help; virtual chicken soup is even less effective. :wink: Hope you get better in spite of that.
http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/liebe/love-smiley-024.gif

Will you meet the counselor in person? Can you reschedule? Stay home and take care of yourself, and save yourself from making a bad impression by exposing him/her to the flu!
I just want to get everything done, since I took a vacation this week for this very purpose (and others). I can't put it off. I'll try not to infect him. :wink:

Oh, the flu on your vacation, how sad! :(

[Swift]

Candy, virtual hugs are of marginal help; virtual chicken soup is even less effective. :wink: Hope you get better in spite of that.
http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/liebe/love-smiley-024.gif

Good thing virtual kisses don't pass real world germs. Just don't tell my wife that I'm getting kisses on valentine's day from other women, or I'm in big trouble. :oops: :D

[Candy]

I have just been told that I STILL HAVE A JOB!!!!http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/huepfen/jumping-smiley-014.gif

[Candy]

MY heart is BEATING so FAST!!!!! :D

[Candy]

BRB - got to call grandma, mom and dad!!!! :o

[Spacewriter]

HOORAY!!!!!

[Doodler]

Quick, someone help me throw rubber pads on the walls while she's on the phone!


In all sincerity, congrats on surviving. :)

[Donnie B.]

That's great news, Candy!

Now I think you need to sit down with your boss and have a little heart-to-heart on how this situation was handled by the company... [-(

[Swift]

=D> That's excellent.
It's nice to have the pressure of "impending doom" off. I still think you should continue with your educational goals and other items in your action plan. Better to have too many options than to have too few.
Hope with President's Day you have a break from school and a little time to relax, even if only for a day or two.

[zebo-the-fat]

:D :D :D =D> =D> =D> :D :D :D

[Candy]

That's great news, Candy!

Now I think you need to sit down with your boss and have a little heart-to-heart on how this situation was handled by the company... [-(
I don't think so. She really went to bat for me to keep me. I was almost a goner. If anything, I am gonna be kissing her butt.

I am so glad I decided to go back to school 2 years ago to finish my BS - THIS IS PROBABLY THE SINGLE MOST THING THAT SAVED ME!http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/huepfen/jumping-smiley-027.gif

[Candy]

I still think you should continue with your educational goals and other items in your action plan. Better to have too many options than to have too few.
I will, Swift. I have the school bug, so to speak! :D

Hope with President's Day you have a break from school and a little time to relax, even if only for a day or two.
When I called my dad, he said my little sister has been sick from school this week. She felt well enough to go today. She stood outside waiting for the bus, and it never came. My stepmom, thinking she missed the bus, drove her to school. When they got their, it was out for the long 'Presidential' weekend. :lol:

[tmosher]

That's great news, Candy!

Now I think you need to sit down with your boss and have a little heart-to-heart on how this situation was handled by the company... [-(
I don't think so. She really went to bat for me to keep me. I was almost a goner. If anything, I am gonna be kissing her butt.

I am so glad I decided to go back to school 2 years ago to finish my BS - THIS IS PROBABLY THE SINGLE MOST THING THAT SAVED ME!http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/huepfen/jumping-smiley-027.gif

So who got nicked? A?

Maybe now things will calm down a bit.

[Candy]

Maybe now things will calm down a bit.
Things will calm down a bit? :-?

[Moose]

Hey, right on, Candy! =D>

[Candy]

Hey, right on, Candy! =D>
Thanks, Moose.

Was I that bad with the worrying? :oops:

:D

[tmosher]

Hey, right on, Candy! =D>
Thanks, Moose.

Was I that bad with the worrying? :oops:

:D

Yep.

[Candy]

Was I that bad with the worrying? :oops:

:D

Yep.
No offense, but I think you are the most insensitive person I have ever met in my entire life. :-?

[beskeptical]

One of my best assets is the fact I have had 8 regular jobs and worked through an agency at 11 different hospitals for several years since my first college degree. Flexibility is a great skill to have in today's marketplace of work. When it's time to change, the only thing I hate are job interviews.

When I'd quit one job, whether it was to go back to college or travel it always gave me the most wonderful sense of freedom.

When it came time to quit my last job and start my own practice, I had absolutely no fear. If it didn't work out, no big deal, just get another job before the money runs out.

There were people at my workplace that had been there 20 to 30 years. As they moved up and out of their union positions into management, they lost all job security. The hospital laid off the folks that it felt were in the hospital's best interest to lay off, not the folks it had the least loyalty to.

Treat your career as just that, your career, not your career at xyz company. I realize you don't sound as if United was to be your big career job since you speak of going to graduate school. But were I in your shoes, with what I know now, I'd be off to graduate school no matter what happened at United. I wouldn't be worried about cashing in all my assets just yet. It's your education and your skills that are your assets right now.

The retirement funds and home equity aren't the important assets to worry about just yet. When I started grad school I could fit every single thing I owned in my car. Now I can hardly fit it all in my 3,000 sq ft home. The mortgage is down to about 30% of the appraised value and I have no other loans out on anything, even credit cards.

Change is good, very good. \:D/

[Candy]

I realize you don't sound as if United was to be your big career job since you speak of going to graduate school.
I like your attitude, beskeptical!

Actually, when I started with the company '97, I only had an Associates Degree and making minimum wage. My focus was having a job I enjoyed, even though the benefits were great!

Then, as time moved along, I found myself actually caring for United like family.

I chose to down-grade to a clerical job (administrative), when the union hit Indianapolis Reservations in '98. I don't care for unions, and I would rather clean toilets than be in one.

I worked my way up from administrative to management by '99. I finally got my dream job in '01 (Chicago).

I chose to go back to school for job security '03. I saw a lot of good folks go in the past few years, because they didn't have a degree. That scared me into returning to school.

Come to think of it, when I started with United, we had 100K - now we are at ~40K Worldwide. I'd have to look up the actual figures for accuracy.

I was hoping to move up the food chain, eventually. I'm not sure if that will happen anytime soon, so I will keep my options open outside of United.

Now, I just love the prestige of a degree. Of course, I'll never be ATP. 8)

With the monies from the re-financing, I'm gonna pay off my car and credit car bills. And as long as I stay in school, I won't have to pay of the student loan anytime soon. :o

[Doe, John]

Just remember, your boss wasn't very nice to you before this all happened.It could be that she did this to make you feel like you owe her something. Office politics can be quite byzantine.

Having said that

=D> =D> =D>

Good for you, now I recommend you go partake of some refreshing adult beverages :D

[Donnie B.]

That's great news, Candy!

Now I think you need to sit down with your boss and have a little heart-to-heart on how this situation was handled by the company... [-(
I don't think so. She really went to bat for me to keep me. I was almost a goner. If anything, I am gonna be kissing her butt.

I am so glad I decided to go back to school 2 years ago to finish my BS - THIS IS PROBABLY THE SINGLE MOST THING THAT SAVED ME!http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/huepfen/jumping-smiley-027.gif
Perhaps my post wasn't exactly clear.

I didn't mean to imply that you should complain about the situation to your boss, nor (above all) to blame her for the situation. Now that I know she was in your corner, what I'd recommend is something like this (in the context of a private but not formal meeting with her):

"Boss, I think you should know -- the layoff caused a whole lot of stress in the team over the last few weeks. Everybody was really worried about who was going to be axed, and it made things extra tough for all of us. Do you think this could have been handled differently?"

It may not make any difference, ultimately, but communication is a good thing. She may not even realize what you were going through. Besides, she may have some insight about the situation that she might be willing to share.

[ToSeek]

Congrats, Candy!!

(Delayed since I've been out-of-town and without a computer.)