When the Writing is on the Wall (or Not)

"In case of an emergency, break glass"

Sometimes a job termination can come out of the blue. It smacks you right in the gut and brings out emotions that you never thought were even possible. If it is warranted fine, then it won’t be such a surprise. If not, then the rage, hurt, and anger can rise to the surface and sap your energy and self esteem. It can leave you feeling shattered, helpless and without a clue about where to turn next.

Some companies have a bit of compassion and will give you a bit of notice. Whether a reduction in the workforce is two months or two weeks down the road, this at least gives you a chance to process the news and begin the physical and emotional preparations to leave. Others (and some very respectful companies) are not so compassionate and will bowl you over in disbelief. This second option is cruel.

Even if you feel comfortable with your standing in your company, it pays to be prepared in case you are eventually caught in the cross hairs. What can you do now to prepare?

1. Copy all of your performance appraisals. If you don’t have them, ask your manager for a copy for your files.
2. Review and document all your past trainings and certifications.
3. Review your email for any thank you notes or recommendations from internal and external clients, peers, managers, etc. Print them.
4. Document any internal company awards. What were they for, why did you receive them?
5. Look at the goals you established for the past three to five years. What were the measurable accomplishments? Who (and where) were your internal and external clients? If you had to, could you explain the tasks involved in these goals? Print these too.
6. Look at your electronic or paper calendar and document important events. These may remind you of particular activities or project work.

If you work for a company that doesn’t use goals or performance appraisals (shame on them) it may be more difficult to go mining for information. What is important is that you document everything about your job. This includes:

• Your customers. Who are they? Where are they located? How many customers do you have?
• Your day to day activities
• Your major accomplishments over the past five or so years

When I worked as an HR Consultant and a Learning and Development Consultant, I presented goal setting and performance management training. One of my tips was to create a “Me File”. As the days, months and year passed, I suggested filling it with all important documentation. As an employee, the file documented the projects, tasks, etc that were accomplished in the year and were a good reference tool for preparing a performance appraisal.

If you are suddenly faced with a reduction in workforce and are terminated, grab your Me File when you leave. Its new purpose is to help you find new employment and will be the fodder for your resume and interviews.