Just got caught up on all the responses and again - thank you! We are trying to be prepared but it is still so nerve wrecking, not knowing if any day could be your last day there…
Usually the things I worry about don’t happen! The times my husband or I got laid off were out of the blue.
I have been through this twice (training others in my job) and both times I was let go shortly afterwards. Once was due to a company reorganization and the new position I was identified for ultimately wasn’t approved and more recently due to a company merger.
Both times it ended up working out great but it was because I had been preparing myself for the possibility of being let go. The first time I was young (early 30s) but it was a week after the 9/11 attack and no one was hiring, especially in my industry. The good news was I had an excellent network and reputation in the industry so as soon as things were more back to normal I was the first one employers called. I was able to bank half of the severance package I received and with a toddler that was a win.
The second time was 3 years ago. A company merger was announced 6-8 months before it would happen and I knew there would be too many people in my position and I was one of the older and more expensive people. Once I started training others I knew the writing was on the wall and there was nothing I could do about it but prepare. I started networking and the day after I was given my notice I had an interview and ended up with a job offer 6 weeks before my last day. The new employer was willing to wait until my last day so I could collect my severance package which ended up being in excess of half a year salary which went right in the bank untouched. Great timing with a senior in high school and tuition bills on the horizon.
The key, IMHO is to be a boy scout and be prepared. If the lay off never comes if nothing else your ducks are in a row and if it does come you can be quick and nimble in transitioning to a new job.
@Emily0722 Like others have said it’s employment at will. So the best thing is to be prepared. Your H needs to expand his knowledge base into other technologies, lest he be pigeonholed into something outdated and unused. The best way to stay employed is to add value. If you’re adding value you won’t be let go.