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Layoffs

Here are the questions filed under this category. To read Ken's advice on any item, click on the link "Read Ken's Answer."


How should we deal with a manager who keeps threatening to lay us off if we make the slightest mistake? Our company has had some layoffs lately, and our manager has told us several times he is on the lookout for names to add to the next round. How can I deal with him?
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How does a company decide who to lay off? My friend was a buyer and received a good performance review, but another buyer who had previously worked for the Purchasing Director received an excellent review, although she had only been in the position for six months and her performance was inferior to my friend's. When my friend finds a new job, how she can track her performance so she has backup at review time? Could it be that the Director evaluated the other buyer based on past performance rather than present?
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If someone is at a company close to four years and has received outstanding reviews, but sales are down due to market conditions, can that person be let go without a warning? The company has about 300 employees for all divisions.
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We had a round of layoffs a few weeks ago, and I survived. I obviously felt relieved and thankful, but I'm also feeling sort of guilty. I know I didn't cause any of my former associates to get laid off, but I'm not feeling very good. Can you offer any advice?
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Although our company seems to be doing fairly well in these times, it would still not surprise me to see some layoffs. Can you suggest some steps for an employee to take to lower his chances of being laid off?
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For the first time in my career, I am nervous about losing my job. The company has not replaced people who left during the past few months, and there are rumors all over the place. Do you have any suggestions for people in my situation?
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I have four very good employees in my department and I just received word from management that I have to lay one off. I need all of them, but management says "no." How do I figure out who to let go?
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I was laid off about two months ago and I just found a new job. I was surprised to receive an email directing me to a site that is sponsored by my former company and designed to let former employees know about things going on there. I'd never go back, so what's the point?
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Our company is under a stringent cost reduction program that includes layoffs, but in spite of this, some office areas are being redecorated. If the company is in such a financial pinch, why would they be doing this?
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My manager keeps piling work on me, and I don’t know how to get it all done. I am afraid that if I say something to him, I’ll look like a marginal employee. Our company has had some cutbacks lately, and I don’t want to take the chance. What do you suggest?
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