Axed

The ax has fallen. Late Tuesday I got a message for a one on one conversation with my acting manager, first thing Wednesday. That night I couldn't sleep, then ended up oversleeping. While getting ready, I cut my finger on a a razor I left where shouldn't have. Of all things, I was almost late to be let go.

My meeting was short. 30 minutes were allotted, but only took 10. The highlights were explained and a folder with relevant information given to me. There would be a follow-up conference call with an out-placement service later. That day I was to turn in my badge and computer before leaving. I thought I had most everything covered, but in retrospect, I still have some loose ends. No matter, I suppose.

I went in thinking that the cuts would be isolated to my very specific function of the business unit. For months, those around me had been thinking they were safe. As it turns out, the cuts were more widespread, extending into parts I thought were more stable, taking out people who thought they were safe, some very low, and some relatively high (the very high ranks were thinned in the spring). Some had absolutely no idea and were completely unprepared. One person I know didn't even have a resume.

There have been significant cuts throughout my industry this year as it struggles with the new world order. Bloated bureaucracies, unfavorable exchange rates, unstable economies, iffy business strategies and flawed execution. One more quarter to go for 2012. I expect companies in my industry to be making more cuts and limp along with remaining staff through Q4 as they try to scrimp and save to boost their bottom lines. This is going to be a very rough year.

For practical purposes, I am planning on sitting the rest of the year out. My severance package does get me there and we have buffer. I expect with the new budget cycle, more openings will appear 2013 Q1, but there will be a surplus of applicants, bargains to be had if you are a company hiring, I'm sure.

I'm not in a tailspin. Thankfully I had warning. But I'm having trouble finding a new groove despite all my talk. I am pretty sure that in retrospect watching all four seasons of the new Battlestar Galactica would not be considered a productive use of time, but here I am at season two.