10 Signs You're Being Laid Off

Photo taken by rawpixel

It hurts not to have a job. For some people, their job is their source of joy and pride. Others use it to pass time. Not having a job means they have to fill a hole in their life which completes their existence.

Your employers won't tell you if you're losing your job. They make you feel it through sneaky little ways. Everyone will recognize the signs except you. Thus, you must prepare for it. Getting sacked is normal, but getting fired while you still have a balance to pay off towards your condo at Rockwell Katipunan is a no-no.

You must watch out for the signs of being laid off. You can use below as a guide so you can watch out for the signs.

1. They pass assignments to interns

It might hurt, but it's true. The tasks that are typically assigned to you are now passed onto the junior staff or interns. They're showing you that you are no longer needed. Most of all, they're making you feel that you're the weakest link.

2. Your colleagues are busier than you

Now that most (if not all) your work is passed on to someone else, you have all the time in the world. Suddenly, everyone is taking on extra assignments and you're getting left behind. Unknowingly, your colleagues are doing the work you'll soon be leaving.

3. 'You need to take a leave of absence'

You have been told it's in your best interest. This is an example of the "talk" in the workplace. It's serious red-flag to have your boss tell you to take time off.

4. You feel undervalued

Everyone is busy to pay attention or praise your every move, but this one is different. They don't invite you to meetings you're usually expected. You also don't receive information that affects your department.

They won't answer your questions whenever something's up. They're avoiding you because: a) they don't trust your or b) they doubt your abilities.

5. Coworkers avoid you

Rumors spread like wildfire, especially in a small office. People in the office talk about it amongst themselves so they avoid you as much as possible. They are probably avoiding to slip up or they just try to get out of your way because they can't take the guilt of speaking about you.

6. HR Managers are awkward around you

It's hard to act normal when you know that a few people won't have their job in a few days or a week. Hence, the weird vibes you get from your HR Manager. If you feel that employees in the HR department are acting strangely, then its time to be on the lookout for red flags.

7. Your boss asks detailed expense reports

This is what happens when they begin to doubt you. Your boss or supervisor begins to think you are wasting time or have bloated expenses. If they're set to fire you, it may not matter if the report turns out fine. It can still serve as a justification to fire you.

8. Your workload downsizes

The sudden shrinking of your workload comes as a shock especially if you're a high-level employee. If they put you on a special assignment and take the rest of your work to focus on the on ONE task, then consider fixing your résumé. The minimal work is their excuse for them to hand you the pink slip.

9. They sacked your staff

When fewer people are under your wing, it decreases your productivity levels. You can't be as productive without the help of your staff. It only makes sense to let you go.

Similarly, numerous people or teams can get fired during a merger. Changes in leadership affect your job status or company culture. If you can't find in the new team, then you are sure to see your way out.

10. Strained relationship with your boss

You used to spend a lot of time working with your boss. They were happy times. Suddenly, the tables turned and everything you do becomes annoying to him or her. On top of that, he or she watches you closely like a hawk in case you mess up.

These are the sign that will help you figure out if you're bound to lose your job or not. Some of them are discreet so you have to observe carefully to see if you will get fired or not. It's nice to play it safe to keep your job, but sometimes you need to take risks to allow yourself to grow.