Let’s talk about betrayal.
Specifically betrayal from your workplace.
I am not certain what has transpired recently with the “great resignations” etc., but several years ago, when I worked in Corporate America, you couldn’t just get let go without a 3 step process.
First you would be given a chance to correct whatever issue that had come up regarding your performance. If it did not improve you were given a second warning or chance to correct things and then you were put on notice before you were let go.
That is just the way it was. I feel that is how all companies should behave, big or small.
But now there are “at will” companies which means they can eliminate you (fire you) with no reason or explanation and definitely no warning.
I’ve seen it happen time and time again. You get up, get ready for work just like every day for the last several years, sipping your morning coffee at your desk and then it happens. “Can you come into my office please?” And before you can blink your eye, you are being escorted out, barely collecting your belongings.
"At-will means that an employer can terminate an employee at any time for any reason, except an illegal one, or for no reason without incurring legal liability."
Therein lies the problem.
So, you spend years working at a company, try your best to do a good job, are loyal and a team player and just like that, you can be eliminated.
You are given no reason, that makes sense anyway, and no explanation for your termination.
Now, you may have a lot of expenses or have a new home that you are paying for or a host of other responsibilities that you need a paycheck for.
When you are “let go” in such an abrupt and unfeeling way, it feels like all your years of service were for nothing. Like you never mattered.
The worst part is that behind all those smiles from your bosses, is your resignation. You just never know when “it” is going to happen.
“It’s not personal, it’s just business” they say. But to me, it is the most personal thing that can happen.
You feel so betrayed. Your mind is reeling. You are in shock.
You start to try and make sense of it.
What did I do? What did I say? Was it my fault?
You begin second guessing your abilities.
You don’t feel confident you can take on another job.
This completely messes with your self confidence. This entire process is so unfair and wrong on every level.
Now let’s introduce a survivor to the mix. This kind of treatment is so triggering.
Now you have to start a new job and a new location.
Imagine how you will behave. You will be fearful, unsure of yourself and likely not a good team member because you will always be thinking “behind those smiles is your resignation”
Survivor or not, if you have been fired, let go, laid off or betrayed in any way, I can help you heal from that traumatizing experience and regain your worth.
Reach out to me at - karen@karenmessina.com so I can help you