Before I begin I want to make it clear that my husband was not laid off (Thank God) but unfortunately he was pushed very close to that situation. Though we all expected some kind of change from his employer, something beyond the expected happened on one fine morning and all at once we were all suddenly thrown to the verge of circumstances.
One fine morning he was informed from his employer that very soon they are going to shut down the entire unit in the current location and planned to move to another location. Many were given notice to leave and few were given the option of relocation to another place. Lot of chaos, uncertainty, confusion and silence prevailed for a while. We both went through a lot of stress all through this period. Though my hubby was given the option to relocate, we understood it would not do any good sticking with the same employer and go ahead with them as the company is not competitive enough in the recent time. The remarkable "change" is not happening with them and also we could not able to see that coming in the near future too. For our own good and future prospects we have to turn down the offer of relocation. It would always be nice if everything we dream, we wish happens just like that, but as the saying goes "Nothing comes easy". Especially when you are in a foreign country, you have to be well aware of the rules and regulations otherwise you will end up leaving the country all at once.
Lots of twists, turns happened for more than a month, a very bumpy ride indeed. We both were more certain that we would not inform anything to anyone as we don't want to alarm anyone of the situation. As I always believe everything is for some good, we both understood the trends of job market at present. It turned out to be an greatest opportunity to know what will work for him in the future. After a lot of discussions, sleepless nights, silence and confusion we finally made a good decision of settling with another employer with good prospects. In the end, It's really worth the trouble and worth taking that leap.
I want to share few thoughts on this as we both went through a very rough time.
* You have to expect some unexpected situations at anytime. You have to be very careful with your finances. Make sure you set aside some money for such circumstances. Please don't ever touch that money at any cause. That will be your emergency fund.
* Especially If you are in a foreign country where your presence is numbered through your visa status, you have to be well aware of that. You have to have touch base with it at regular intervals.
* I have heard and seen people who go crazy visiting popular places, being a spend thrift, enjoying to the core in a foreign nation than in their own nation without realizing the consequences of uncertain situations. The sad part is that they would have never even thought the most amazing places in their own country but the urge to visit many places and spending comes right at once when they land in a foreign nation. For those of you, it's high time you realize your mistakes and be sensible.
* IT professionals no matter how much you earn you need to have proper discipline in spending and saving which unfortunately many lack at present.
* If you are so loyal to your company, I am sure your employer will appreciate that but make sure you see what your company's peer group is doing in the same business. You have to see where your employer stands in this competitive environment, In this fast race make sure at least your employer competes with others. Loyalty sometimes will misguide you.
* If you ever think that your employer is the most admired company in the world and that you have a very good job position with them and that they would never fail. Think again!
* In this competitive world, you have to learn and adopt to new technologies. Read as many articles or books as you can, remain updated on daily basis.
* If you are ever worried about "change", change happens all the time, only thing is that we notice it only fewer times. People who do not want to change are the ones who face the consequences in life. Change is always good.
* Please don't panic and don't make some hasty decisions at this time. Never rush up things. You should know your limitations and should know what will work and what will not work for you. Sometimes it's easy to be in a job which might pay you well enough but that mightn't be your passion. You should have the ability to differentiate between your needs and your passion.
* It's very much advisable not to let your family know about the situation (May be later, when the dust settles down). It will be like a ripple effect so better avoid it for your own good.
* Make sure you take advise from people who could understand your work and your job situation, with whom you could able to discuss about your job rather than talking with someone (even if that's from your own family or friends) who would not have any idea of your work related activities. It's very difficult to make them understand if they are unaware of your job profile. Trust me, we had that trouble.
* Slightly off the scenario, but very important to all of us. You will come across some very nice people and worst people during this time. In simple term, you will know who is your real friend! With more competition ahead, it will be like a rat race so expect some selfish people on the track.
* To the family members, this person needs your support during this difficult time. Please don't see this issue with the magnifying glass. Encouragement and patience are highly appreciated at this hour.
To my reader, If you are ever faced with such a situation (heaven forbid), may you have the courage to fight back and may you have the strength to pass this phase as it is is not the end but a new beginning. Never ever try to settle down for less than your dreams. Follow your heart. May your passion drive you to become what you want to be. My best wishes to you.
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