Before today, there were lots of things that had never happened to me. Today, I can no longer say that I’ve never been downsized.
The company that I worked for had to let go of a significant amount of its workforce in order to make through these very difficult economic times. There were signs of this happening for a few months and I can’t say I was surprised. People in marketing rarely have much job security…they’re often the first to go when a company experiences a downturn.
I’m actually feeling OK. Back when I made the decision to move from Perceptive Software to SunBridge Capital, I was excited to make a change. If someone can be excited about getting laid off, it’s me.
Truth is, I never really unpacked my bags. Sure, I accomplished plenty in my two years, but I found myself in a situation where I wasn’t particularly inspired by the work I was doing. Was I making the world a better place? It’s not a commentary on the company…it was a good enough company who is just trying to survive.
I can see lots of good in this. I’m not sure that anyone is going to be hiring before the end of the year, but I’ll certainly be on the lookout. I’m taking Derek Powazek’s advice I saw on Twitter yesterday in response to the folks that got let go at Yahoo:
Dear Yahoo firedlings, take it from someone who’s been “let go” more than once: it’s always led to something better. Go forth and kick ass.
I know that something good will come of this. Sure, my hand has been forced, but I’m not worried.
So attention potential-employers!
I’ve been a marketer for my entire career and have held jobs that have involved everything from writing features and case studies to planning a trade show schedule of 80+ events annually. I’ve been a print designer, web designer, and interactive designer. I know the web and social media. I’ve marketed software and I’ve marketed financial products. I’ve designed logos, websites, brochures, booklets, and more.
I’m an agile worker who can easily adapt to many different situations. When I was hired at Perceptive Software in 2000, there were 18 employees. When I left in 2006, there were over 300. Working in a growing organization like that, I was asked to wear a lot of hats. That experience blessed me with a diverse skill set that I feel I can apply to any situation.
If you’re interested in hiring me, check out my resume and portfolio here.
Sorry to hear about this happening. Just stay positive and remember that for every door that closes, another one opens.
Hey Shane, I tell you dude, I’m relieved to be out of there. The only reason I didn’t leave on my own is because I committed myself to go down with the ship. I’ve been getting crushed mentally for the past 6 months because everything we were kicking out was not seeing the light of day. I hope they make it through the storm because there are some good people there trying, but I think you and I are better off.
when I got laid off 9 years ago I had a nice 5-6 week break when I was getting severance and unemployment at the same time. ks unemployment is not huge but helps somewhat. my point is that normally unless you are self-employed you are not getting months-long vacations too often, so enjoy this time and good luck.
You will definitely kick ass! Somebody is going to get inspired by your work ethic and talent, they just haven’t discovered you yet. In the immortal words of somebody (I think it was John Wayne) “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”
If we all knew what’s going to happen along the road when we make decisions… Then we wouldn’t have to live with all the “what ifs.” — You do something you think is good for you, but who are we to make the judgment?
I know you’re a man of faith, and I know that you, like me, believe this is something that had to happen for other (better) things to come.
Good luck with your new endeavors!
Awesome post, horrible news, clearly you’re dealing with it brilliantly and I completely agree about “better things to come.”
Good luck in the times to come. Hope something comes along soon!
just do what you are doing. keep your head up. be positive. i’m sure something will fall right into your lap, brother. and always know that we are here to help in anyway possible. hey, at least you get to sleep in while you are jobless.
you and alli should come hang out with us tonight. we have 3 movies to watch.
Dang it.
So many thanks out to all the kind words and statements of support. They are much appreciated.
Hang in there, my friend. This, too, shall pass.
Shane, Just wanted to let you know that we’re thinking about you guys and hope something wonderful pops into your life soon. We know you’re meant for great things!!
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