HealthyBea

Preparing for the Worst at Work

This weekend post is motivated by recent uncertainty at work. Numerous teams have been shaken, people have been made redundant, and some have been forced out altogether. For those of us operating in non-business critical roles, such as support teams, or non-revenue generating departments, these types of upsets naturally cause alarm. We should see them as an opportunity to be more alert and prepare ourselves for the worst if these decisions end up impacting us adversely.

The need to be vigilant is more obvious when your company is not performing financially, but this year has taught me that job security is not guaranteed even when the firm is leading in the industry. Businesses may see their success as an opportunity to reduce and restructure in order to not only maintain, but also hopefully accelerate their performance. I understand. They are rarely built with the sole intention of providing jobs, and jobs to individuals for life. Companies need to consistently revamp their operations, talent, and processes to be more efficient in order to survive and ideally thrive. 

I could critique the ways in which layoffs and restructures should be conducted, but that’s for another day. All I have to say is that my heart goes out to those who have not been treated with the support and respect that they deserve while initially learning about the news and subsequently navigating it ❤ 

While I can sit here on the “safe” side (for now) to provide this perspective, I do realise that I may not feel so level-headed and chipper if I were to be giving myself advice amongst stressful updates directly touching my role. However, I would like to believe that this reflection and below tips will help us in one way or another. So let’s jump into a few approaches to support ourselves should we experience any dreaded company announcements.

How to Prepare for the Worst (Work News)

1. Alert: I caution you to never let your guard down. Always keep your eyes and ears open to be aware of what is going on around you (in the office, the industry, and globally) that could impact your company and in turn, your position. Especially those who believe their job is secure given the amount of years they have maintained it. Unfortunately, that is not realistic given the unpredictability of our world. Take note of conversations, read the signs in the office, follow your firm’s competitors, and be honest about the need and relevance of your role as the industry shifts. This should allow you to sense any sort of instability to your role so that you’re not completely surprised if anything affects it. 
2. Hard Work: This should go without saying, but never become complacent in your role. Continue to be proactive and question processes and decisions to ensure that you’re contributing to progress and efficiency. Make yourself as valuable and irreplaceable as possible. Most importantly, work so hard that you won’t regret your actions if you do get let go. If you are unfortunately forced to leave, the mental repercussion may not be as difficult to stomach knowing you did everything in your power to prevent it. I have discovered that I can overcome anger faster than remorse. 
3. Back-Up Plan: Take the time to reflect on not only your ideal long-term plan, but also alternatives should unexpected events disrupt it. Start looking internally to understand the other roles in which you might be interested, as well as those in other companies. Would you want to take the opportunity to explore a new department, maintain your line of work in a competing company, or look into a similar type of job in a different industry? This is your time to think outside of the box. Get excited for something slightly askew from your linear path in case you are forced to do so. 
4. Mental Construction: Especially if you are noticing changes around you, start to mentally consider the worst. Be careful not to drive yourself mad and overthink the situation, but do ponder the possibility that this could happen to you. I am much better at hearing difficult news if I have some sort of warning beforehand. Hopefully this exercise will allow you to react with poise and rationality if you do end up receiving disappointing updates. 

I know that nothing will fully prepare us for seemingly devastating news, but plotting a backup plan and planning a few steps ahead should at the very least offer support. At the end of the day, remember that every change presents an opportunity for renewed greatness. Consider how you can leverage the challenging situation in front of you to pivot to a new path that brings you abundant happiness and fulfillment. It certainly won’t be easy at first, but it is the truth if you allow it to be. 

Hoping for the best 🙂

Your cheerleader, 

Bea