Sunday, March 29, 2009

Last Wednesday was Lay-off Day

Yes, and luckily, I was spared! Thank God!

But there is no assurance whatsoever. It appears that this is how most companies work nowadays. You work today, but you don't know if you'll still do tomorrow. Applies to most contractual workers here in Bermuda.

I commend the company though for at least being courteous with the process of letting people know. The "chosen ones" were emailed to go to the office of the President. (Since the company I work with is a small one, and most of us are expats, it is not a big deal to be in that room - it normally happens when we have to sort working permit documentations, etc.) They enter that room, get the bad news, then leave. Subtle and silent, none of the other co-workers would have known that meeting was "it".

Only after all of the "chosen ones" were informed, that the other employees were made known through their senior managers. There, the styles differ. One manager emailed each of her staff and talked to them in her office to explain what just happened. My manager, set a team meeting and informed all of us of the news. At least we were spared of the agony of waiting to be emailed ('cause most likely we'll have a hint on what's "happening" since we're kinda paranoid these days). The team meeting worked for us since none in the team got laid off. Otherwise, I would not like it at all.

Until now, we do not know for sure all the names of those being "let go". Normally, the news comes from the person himself/herself. At least, he gets to decide when and how to let others know.

Another good thing for me is that the lay-off is not effective immediately. I hated it when I heard some companies escort their laid off employees on that same day he/she heard the news that that day is his/her last day (even last hour actually) in the office! I learned that the latter is "the law" for some countries. Nevertheless, I do not think it's humane especially not initially agreed upon (in the employment contract).

So much to thank for! So much, while they last!!! And there goes the rainbow.

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About Me

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Bermuda
I got a new laptop as a Christmas gift so I thought about sharing my thoughts over the net. I must say I have been wanting to do this for sometime... this free resource just made me want to do this more! =) I am an overseas worker whose home is on the other side of the planet. I have not gone home since I arrived here. Hopefully by the end of this year, I will get to share with you my first homecoming experience. I hope you enjoy reading... and I could not go without saying, THANKS for dropping by. :)

Am I excited or what?


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