Early warning signals for losing jobs
Before the final day when one’s HR or manager calls them to hand over the pink slip, there are enough signals that this is likely to happen. A lot of people choose to ignore these signals as they are positive about their performance and survival in the company.
Also, there is a psychological feeling that bad things can’t happen to me, e.g. I can’t die.
There can be numerous reasons for losing jobs:
1. Performance-led: When it comes to performance-led exits, the manager usually informs the team member about the lack of his/her performance multiple times either casually or in a structured feedback format. These cues are easy to recognize and should be paid heed to.
How does one manage such a situation?
– An improvement plan should be documented, shared with the manager, and his input and approval should be sought.
– One should work diligently on the improvement plan
– Keep the manager updated and seek his feedback
2. Behavior-led: The problem is bigger when one is a high-performer, and the issue is more behavioral as perceived by the manager. The feedback on behavior is usually unstructured and communicated informally. These are easy to miss until the final feedback, which is typically provided to kickstart the exit process. It’s already too late.
How does one manage such a situation?
-Don’t ignore these cues. If the manager doesn’t set an agenda, the team member should structure a discussion, and seek feedback with specific examples, that should not be repeated in future.
– Seek the help of a behavioral specialist within or outside the organization.
– Create an action plan with the help of the behavioral expert and get it approved by the manager or the HR business partner.
– Implement the plan meticulously and seek 360 feedback from all the affected parties.
– Constantly update the manager and the HR business partner with the implementation progress.
3. Reduction in teams: The early warning signs could be
– Reduction in workload
– Allocation of work to others
– Reduction in the resources allocated disproportionate to reduction in work
How does one manage such a situation?
Observe these signs, understand the dynamics and try to change the team. If changing the team seems out of the question, before losing the job, one should find a new one. At least one should try one’s best.
What are the other warning signals that people tend to miss?
Let us know in the comments below and stay with us on the journey of career management!
If you’ve reached here and are interested to learn more, here are a few more topics:
Preface: How to build a successful career!
Will You Succeed If You Perform?
Career Management, Is It Science Or Art?
Managing the Science – Performance
Managing The Manager
Managing Skip Manager
Managing The Peers
Why Did I Need A Godfather…?
The art of surviving during recession… My experiences…
You will not succeed here… I was told on day 1
Should YOU Quit Your Job?
Should I Go For An Mba?
How Should Newbies Build Their Careers? – Pulling It Together
Why is Early Retirement Dream a Mirage?