Q: My company was just sold. My whole job description changed and my workload nearly doubled with no increase in compensation. Our friendly culture is now snarly and gnarly. I used to love coming to work and now I dread Mondays. Should I quit?
A: Maybe. I say, if your mental and physical health have not been compromised, hang on.
But effective immediately:
(1) Figure out the minimum work you can do in order to keep your job and avoid harming anyone. Use the time to begin searching for a new position.
You can’t neglect your students, patients and/or clients. But you may be able to avoid the extra projects. It’s very much a judgment call.
(2)Avoid discussing your dismay with coworkers.
Keep your plans private. During a time of change, loyalties shift. People you trusted will be acting out of fear. When asked to comment on the changes, say something neutral and positive.
(3) Begin networking and actively job searching.
Post your resume only if you can do so anonymously. Never use your company’s email or phone for a job search (or for consultations with your career coach). If the company furnishes you with a cell phone, get an extra just for yourself. Get a gmail email account. Don’t use yahoo or (heaven forbid) AOL.
(4) Keep calm.
It’s easy to panic and many of your coworkers will. Come up with a mantra that makes sense for you, like, “I am a marketable executive with many options.”
If you can’t come up with options or you’re feeling that “deer in the headlights” freeze, schedule a call with a consultant or coach. Choose your confidantes carefully: friends and family may not help.
(5) Add extra sessions of exercise, relaxation, and fun.
In my experience, your mind will work more creatively after a workout at the gym, a movie, and/or dinner with friends and family who keep the conversation off your career.
And as soon as you ride out this crisis — whether things get better at your job or you land a new one — you know what I’m going to suggest. Get your Marketability Plan together and take the first steps immediately.
I offer consultations for mid-career executives and professionals. See https://midlifecareerstrategy.com/career-strategy-session
Check out my book on Amazon: Your 21-Day Extreme Career Makeover.
Really good advice Cathy. I especially like item #2 for an additional reason. The more you hear yourself thinking and speaking negatively, the worse your feel.
I suppose an sub-item might be: Simply refuse to allow negativity.
This is so important because it creeps into conversations while networking and in interviews. That would be a red flag for prospective employers.
Excellent point -many thanks! I hadn’t considered this. I’ll be migrating this blog to typepad soon so hopefully keep in touch.
Amazing how quickly a culture brand can change. I would add to your great points to continue networking, learning, adding value and exercising even when gainfully employed again.