A change in attitude toward you and/or other workers
Abrupt management changes
Expense reductions such as hiring freezes or reduced overtime
Broad corporate restructuring plans
Decreased workload
Bounced payroll or expense checks
Suppliers, clients, and/or customers taking their business elsewhere
Layoffs among competing organizations
Getting Ready
Speak with your HR department about a possible transfer
Talk to your family and let them know what may be coming
Assess your finances
Keep a positive attitude and show you are valuable to the company
Update your resume
Research opportunities with other companies
Determine if your employer will provide any assistance such as a severance package
Think about using your benefits while you still have them
Collect personal information, performance reviews, documents to take with you, etc.
Network, network, network!
How to Respond
Stay professional
Don't burn bridges
Get letters of recommendation from your supervisor(s)
Discuss the following with your HR department: vacation and sick time remaining, continuing health coverage with COBRA insurance, understanding and rolling over your 401(k) or pension plan
Managing Stress
Remember this is not a reflection of your talents or abilities
Examine your circumstances...this may be a great time for a career change!
Think about additional training
Stay on a "work schedule" and get back on the job market