In my previous listing “Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow” I referenced on how little, to no control, one has on their future – as it unwinds.

I agree that there are too many variables in one’s personal life. So, one cannot hope to ever control it fully. Should you at least be in control of your work life as it directly impacts you, and your family’s livelihood, well-being, and support?

Most of us who work in the hi-tech space are aware of the fragility/stability of our jobs and how an overnight storm, could change our personal landscape completely. Generally when one is suddenly impacted – it is never a reflection on their performance or ability to execute their assigned tasks. Surprised, like a deer in the headlight – as it was unexpected, and one is totally unprepared. The general thinking is – this could never happen to me.

I am now semi-retired and consulting/mentoring part-time, on my own terms. Over the last 45+ years, I have worked at over 9 multiple-sized hi-tech organizations – and have been terminated 3 times. In all cases, I was in a Sr. Mgmt. position, managing Project/Engineering Dev/Test R&D teams. I had never expected that I would be let go, in any of the instances as I firmly believed that I was a valued member of the organization.

I have always believed that you terminate/let go of team members who do not fit in, OR, are not performing as expected – even after repeated feedback. At least the feedback is an early warning, to exit pro-actively. A small percentage is still impacted via this route. Most of the mass terminations I have experienced are unplanned and business-driven. The decision to “layoff” OR “cut cost” is often based on short-term revenue goals as a band-aid measure, to stop the proverbial bleeding. I also understand that Executive Managers have a fiscal/shareholder responsibility – they must respond to. But the end does not always justify the means.

Keep in mind that no job is permanent – unless you are a Supreme Court Justice or a ‘tenured’ Professor at a hi-ed school/college. You are working at your hi-tech organization in a temporary capacity and can be terminated within the notice period, stated in your offer letter. Nowhere in your offer letter, is there a mention of a lifetime employment offer. So, remove your soft-colored lenses and get real.

So, what should one do? I’d say – Take Control of your work life and be ready to walk out with confidence.

And how does one take control of one’s work-life? Here are some suggestions to self-assess and start implementing changes for yourself and your family’s sake:

  1. However comfortable and “needed” you are at your job – always keep scouting around for new opportunities. This is easier said than done – and I have myself, been guilty of not following my own guidance. The best time to move on to a new job – is when you are in a strong position in your current job; and in Total Control of your work life. You can now objectively decide on your next venture, vs. making a rushed choice just to stay afloat.
  2. Update your resumes, regularly. I have used the last few weeks of the year-end to do this. Year-end also generally coincides with the annual review process – allowing for self-assessment. This lets you review your personal growth/career plans and take proactive action as required. I know folks who have been working for 10+ years and who do not have current resumes. When/if the unexpected happens, you will at least have your latest resume ready to go.
  3. If you are not comfortable with (1) and (2) above – for whatever reasons, loyalty, etc.; let that be your choice and not an afterthought. If you accept that a forced work-life change can happen anytime – at least plan for it. (4) and (5) below need your attention.
  4. Depending upon the grade level at which you are operating – Individual Contributor (IC), Technical Manager, Department Manager, or Sr. Manager/Director/VP role – the time to find the right new job will vary. My experience tells me that while ICs and Tech Lead/Managers – can find a new position within 2 months. The higher your seniority the longer it will take to reposition yourself. At VP level, I have typically spent up to 4-6 months, finding my new work-life home.
  5. Along with your nest egg savings plan, put aside (out of sight, out of mind) your expected mandatory plus limited discretionary monthly expenses for that period + 2 months. This should free you to create your own controlled off-ramp to find the next right opportunity in sync with your career growth plans.

Most of us are so preoccupied with doing our best at our work for recognition, financial rewards, or just personal satisfaction – that we leave ourselves exposed when downsizing occurs.

Start your New Year with the commitment to Take control of your work-life, so you may begin every day with a self-assured feeling that you are ready for anything, life may throw at you.