Layoff Survivors Need to Remain Motivated by Amy Winter on Creators.com

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Layoff Survivors Need to Remain Motivated

Editor's Note: The Bulletin Board column is not available this week. The following column originally was published in March 2009.

During company layoffs, even those who maintain their jobs can experience stress and discouragement. Those remaining workers will have to handle bigger workloads and continue to stay positive amid the worry that they could be in the next round of downsizings, according to OfficeTeam, a staffing service.

"It's natural for people to have mixed feelings about keeping their jobs when co-workers have been let go," says Robert Hosking, executive director. "Layoff survivors often experience guilt about being the ones who stay while also working in an environment marked by uncertainty."

Hosking recommends that workers try to change their working habits and attitudes in order to remain a strong presence in the company.

"This is a time to work closely with your manager to ensure your workload reflects company priorities," he says. "Also, try to stay positive. This can be challenging, as losing good people inevitably affects morale, but the more you can do to lift the collective spirit, the better off you will be."

OfficeTeam provides tips for recovering after company layoffs:

— Make yourself essential. Concentrate on improving your company's bottom line. Expand your skills to help add to workplace success.

— Develop visibility. Be seen for the correct reasons. Try taking on projects that may be outside your job description.

— Adjust to change. Don't stop productivity even when experiencing difficult times. Try to stay positive and motivated.

— Steer clear of the rumor mill. Avoid adding to the gossip by the water cooler.

Go to your manager if you have questions or concerns regarding layoffs.

— Extend a helping hand. Reach out to others who have lost their jobs. Assist them with their job searches; bring them into your professional network.

— Look out for yourself.

Burnout can result from increased workloads, which layoff survivors will most likely face. Managers may be able to bring in temporary workers or do a better job of assigning projects.

"Those who think their job may be in jeopardy should focus on reactivating their professional networks, taking stock of their skills and accomplishments, and putting together a strong resume," adds Hosking.

For more information, visit www.officeteam.com.

DEAL WITH WEIRD BOSSES

Have you ever had a boss who performed unusual actions? Forty-three percent of workers, according to a CareerBuilder.com survey that questioned 8,038 employees, say they left their jobs to get away from their managers.

When it comes to bad bosses, female workers seem to walk away from their positions more often than male workers.

Some examples of crazy actions performed by bosses include:

— Held a meeting while locked in the bathroom.

— Tap-danced on an employee's desk.

— Showed everyone a kidney stone he had passed.

— Broke down and cried during a meeting: "Why don't you like me?"

— Used a Taser gun on a subordinate.

— Rode a child's scooter through the office.

CareerBuilder.com recently started a site where Web users can anonymously give fun tips or offer workplace guidance. Go to www.anonymoustipgiver.com to choose your character and voice. The animated tip will be sent to the person's e-mail. You can deal with an annoying boss or co-worker without revealing your identity.

For more information, visit www.careerbuilder.com.

To find out more about Amy Winter and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.