Comments on: This Should Not Have Happened

By: Bonita Martin

Bonita Martin — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 11:46:27 +0000

I’ve seen this happen too many times as well. As a HR pro, it’s my job to remind employees that they need to take ownership of their job and career – Gently at first and then directly if necessary. I’ve seen a business close and hundreds of good employees get laid off. Despite advanced warnings, few employees are proactive enough to plan for their next step. I’ve always got my resume updated and ready to go in case I’m next.

By: Ann Lewis

Ann Lewis — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:10:06 +0000

thanks so much for a thoughtful and much needed post – you’re right, blame is useless. When people lose their job the deepest help often has to come from inside at a time when inner resources are really low. I wrote ‘Recover Your Balance’ to help people to find their personal strength and confidence after bad times at work. I’d like it to reach everyone who might find it helpful.

By: Alicia Arenas

Alicia Arenas — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:46:51 +0000

Kevin & Jacqui – you both do a great deal to help those around you in need. Thanks for chiming in on this post.

Tammy – good for you! I think in some cases donating our time can be more valuable than donating our money. It sounds like you’re doing great work.

Todd – It’s been a week since I put this post up and I’ve seen more people who need help. It amazes me that when we intentionally look for something, we find it.

John – My eyes were opened too. Thanks for your comment.

Ron – I love what you’re doing. We are indeed a community with a responsibility to give.

Linda – That is true. Your question #1 is something we should all be asking ourselves continuously, even those of us who are self-employed.

Beverley – Ultimately, we are responsible for our growth and development. We own the choices we make. This experience helped me see that I have become a little complacent in putting myself out there to be leveraged by others. And yes, we are victors!

By: Beverley McClure

Beverley McClure — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 14:48:42 +0000

Great perspective. As a leader in a Fortune 200 company and now as a leadership coach, I have long believed that we own OUR career. It’s up to us to leverage all the resources and opportunities which are available to us. We are not victims of our circumstances; we are the victors.

By: Linda Farley

Linda Farley — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 14:29:53 +0000

So true-this story is being repeated too many times every day.
Really caring about the other humans that walk beside us is essential.
BUT I see this within large companies who lay off. People are not taking advantage of the learning offered, tuition programs, etc. We all get into our own comfort zone and are complacent about our skills. A couple of things to think about:
1. Look into your own life. If you were suddenly out of a job, would you be marketable? Really? What are you going to do to ensure your marketability?
2. Encourage, cajole, push, pull and, yes, even gently force those who work in your company to improve their skills.

We can all make a difference!

By: Ron Katz

Ron Katz — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:31:05 +0000

For the past 8 years I have led a Job Support Group for people who are employed, unemployed, underemployed and undecided. None of us got where we are by ourselves. We have to reach back and give a helping hand to those around us. This is all done pro bono in addition to my speaking & coaching practice.

Put simply, ya gotta put something back into the pot or someday we’ll all starve.

By: John Jorgensen

John Jorgensen — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:21:11 +0000

I agree that this is a shame. We need to keep our eyes open for situations like this and help where and when we can. I am very glad you are not assigning fault with anyone group or individual. It has opened my eyes.