My husband and I got one thrown at us this past Monday morning. He called and spoke with his boss in Cincinnati on the phone, like he does every Monday morning. Out of the blue his boss told my husband that they were laying him off. The rest of the day felt surreal for us. From what we can gather, it sounds like my husband's position is being taken over by someone off-shore, in India.
I grew up seeing my dad stay at the same job until he retired. The older and wiser the employee was, the more valued he was--this was the paradigm of the 60's and 70's. Employees weren't laid off merely because they could be replaced by someone cheaper. But things are changing in this country. It's all about the almighty dollar. But, of course, employers still want you to be dedicated to them--even if they don't return the favor. What kind of work environment is this going to morph into? Employees will be hesitant to give their all because they can no longer feel secure. Productivity will go down, prices will go up, more and more jobs will go overseas, less and less money will stay in the US, so buying power will be reduced, and companies will flounder, etc., etc.,
Jobs in this country are precarious. What can we do about it?
My husband is nearly 55 years old and a computer programmer--a profession that is known for its age discrimination. His chances of finding work will be difficult. If he can't find a suitable job soon, he's thinking of pursuing the same avenue as more and more people in his position--become his own boss.
I'm my own boss, having run my own small company for years. I am also a self published author--a choice many have had to make with the changing dynamics of the publishing world. It's a lot of work, but it is comforting to know that a midst this ever-changing percarious world, there are options. We can weather the storms of change. Though the country we live in has its problems, it is still great; it is conducive and welcoming to the little guy with big dreams.
What kind of curve balls has life thrown you? How have your dealt with them?
Too bad about your husband's job. That seems to be the story these days.
ReplyDeleteWow, Carolyn, this one really struck home to me. Not sure if you live in the Salt Lake Valley or not but if you could we could have a long conversation about this topic. BTW, will you be submitting your new book to CeleryTree? There's a new administrator and she's avid about building the site, offering a free publicity package to members! Check out the About Us page to see what's changing! I love the cover of Promises. Looks like one I'd enjoy.
ReplyDeleteI live in Davis county. That's close. I'd love to talk. I don't have any new books out yet. Just the one entitled, Promises. Thanks for your comments on the cover. It is a fun, easy read.
DeleteI am so sorry to hear this!! It's everywhere and I hate it. Good luck with the curve ball and transition. Ugh.
ReplyDeleteDifficult behaviour may be a huge obstacle in
ReplyDeleteacquiring achievement, but dealing with behaviour efficiently can genuinely help on the way to minimising stress levels of staff and pupils, consequently as an end
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