Ten Tips to Know If Your Job is at Stake.
Today, I felt very prompted to speak to a man with whom I am acquainted. The thought would not leave me to share with Him the knowledge God spoke in my spirit concerning his job. At first I felt uneasy, but that feeling abated quickly as I began to share with him that his job was at stake. It was the look on his face that let me know, that not only did my speaking this confirmed his suspicions, but gave him relief.
Usually, it's a good idea to not reveal things the Lord whispers in your ear, for it's better to pray about unpleasant revelations. However, if your conversation remains Holy as God Himself is Holy, and you are truly led by the Lord, then such a revelation is for God to get the glory and you must witness.
In the last few years, as the economy has gone from bad to worst, we see companies going under; we see merges, buyouts, more firings and dismissals within companies-the pressure is on. Oftentimes, I have had people call me and tell me to pray about situations on their job. As, I have been there myself, and observing others under the gun, and listening to complaints, I want to share some obvious signs and not so obvious signs of when your job is at stake, and to give words of encouragement as well. Now, this post is not in regard to slouchers, and people with poor work ethics; this post is to those who know they are solid performers with a track record as such.
1). Most often a critique of some kind of your job performance will come. It may be verbal from your boss, or it may be written on some document you have submitted. The 'critique' is out of the blue. It will take you by surprise-it will make you second guess yourself. The 'critique' is designed to cause you to doubt and lay a foundation for subsequent complaints. You may not always get a critique, a sign of disgruntlement from your boss, but usually some form of dissatisfaction will be uttered..ie.. "You need another day off for the kids? "Ok, your lunch is only an hour". (and you only took an hour) "Did you forget to make a deposit to 'such and such' account? (and you don't do this job) You start feeling like you're being watched! And you are.
2). You start being micro-managed. Asked if you have completed certain task. It begins to be a habit, the boss checking up on you, requesting things on Monday, that's due Thursday.
3).Outsourcing your duties. Giving part of your work to other office employees, saying 'deadlines' are not being met..or to give you extra help. Or having someone to come ask you can they help you.
4). New Rules.. Suddenly there are new rules on memos plastered around the office or building, and these rules only affect very few people or primarily you...ie...(No one can leave early without speaking to the boss; when for five years you always leave at 4:30)
5). Meetings more often to discuss 'new changes' and what's expected from employees. A constant re-iteration that everyone must be prepared for changes, which sets the tone for a tsunami..
6). No communication... All of a sudden you're being left out of common communications. Everybody knows, the president is coming on Friday, but you did'nt get the email in 'Outlook' on Thursday. But, fortunately your co-worker and good friend had your back and asked you did you get the memo to wear a blue suit the next day. Being left out of the conversations at work is a sure sign. however, soon your co-worker realizes they have got to quit communicating with you or their job could be at stake. So watch a change in behavior.
7). Can't look you in the eyes.. If you are talking with someone at work, even the boss, and they no longer look you in the eyes or avoid you all together..Usually, your dismissal or 'pink slip' is only a matter of days.
8). Things at your workstation or desk is out of place, been tampered with, moved around, or someones been on your computer. When your work area starts being disrespected, again, this is a tactic to mentally distress you and cause you to loose focus.
9). New Faces... This is the dead give away. If your boss hires someone, and wants you to train them. This is audacious as it comes. Or this 'new-hire' is asking alot of questions about your job and wanting to help you -you're days are numbered.
10). How essential is your job? If you can take off from work 2-3 days and nobody at work has to call you, no one's work is delayed or interrupted.. It may be a good time to create more job security.
These ten concepts are not comprehensive, but are just a basic layout. We as saints, must not be caught unaware. Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.
So many companies are trying to build better businesses and sabotage the workers who have been there for years, but this will not prosper. You can merge with another thriving business, build better cars, have a practice of indecency but soon the bell will toll. Psalm 127:1 Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.
It is not good to loose sleep over fighting the boss everyday, if the intentions are to fire you.Each person has different situations, so there is no one solution to tackling such devices..But document every incident in case your state has laws that prohibit harassing, or hostile environment issues. But tomorrow will take care of itself, and in the meantime keep a focus on what you've been doing all along until you've decided how to handle the issue.Be blameless in these matters, and be professional.
Sincerely,
THB