The current economic environment has changed the dynamics at the workplace and there is no job security anymore. Whether you are an experienced employee or one on minimum wage, you are always at risk of losing your job.
To succeed in the current economic crisis requires one to be a step ahead of your employer by knowing what will happen in the future. You need to be aware of your work environment and what is happening by seeing the signs that your job security is in trouble.
Some of the things to look out for before you talk to employment lawyers are:
1. Determine your importance to the organization
The first step to determine if your job is in trouble is to do a self-audit on your value, even if it can be challenging. When companies are having financial challenges and they have to downsize, they will first start by retrenching employees they deem excess and less valuable.
Ask yourself if the company can proceed with operations without your services, and if the answer is yes, your job could be in trouble.
2. Your supervisors are ignoring you.
Another sign that your job is in trouble is if your supervisor or employer seems to ignore you. Although many people often tend to hate their bosses, they make important decisions, including hiring and firing.
When an employer or supervisor shows a lot of interest in you, it could indicate they deem you valuable. You should be worried if your supervisor seems unconcerned with what you do or presence as this could indicate they see you as not needed.
3. When you are sent for unnecessary leave
Have you been requested to take some time off duty? If yes, you could be having some trouble with your job, and you need to dust off your resume and start looking for new opportunities. Being asked to step aside for some time is a gentle way that employers use to inform you of your impending firing. It could also show that your organization can march forward without your services.
4. Rumors of planned mergers and acquisitions
When companies merge or get acquired, many people tend to lose their jobs, and you will not be different. If there are rumors that your company could merge or be acquired and the same has not been communicated to you, better start preparing for a job hunt.
Mergers and acquisitions come with restructuring, and the casualties are always employees. If you notice such developments at your organization, you may need the services of employment lawyers.
5. Your tasks are being reassigned.
If there are impending lay-offs, companies might restart restructuring and reassigning tasks to people who will be retained. If you realize most of your duties are being reassigned to colleagues and you now have a lot of free time, it could signal that your job is in trouble.
We are in an era when companies are downsizing and requiring employees to take up more responsibilities to cut operational costs. If your duties are being taken away, it could be a kind way of telling you, ‘Your services are no longer required.’
Conclusion
If there are signs that your job could be in trouble and you need to talk to a lawyer, talk to an employment lawyer. They have the knowledge and experience to offer you legal advice on the legal steps to take to protect yourself.
