My Entire Department Laid Off Today...Except Me

Ms.Jade

This is a repost from my birth month board.

I left the department on a full time basis years ago and have since really diversified in the types of things I handle at work. This has made me more tired, but also more valuable. The rest of my department only works in one area. All 6 of them were laid off today. We are a pretty close group and it sucks, but it really needed to happen to pave the way for some other things my company is trying to take on. 

I had to leave early and didn't get a chance to speak to anyone. Usually I wouldn't hesitate to give them a call at home tonight (not unusual at all in this group) but since I was the only one spared I feel a little weird about it. To make matters worse I have a doctor's appointment and won't be in tomorrow at all. 

Do you think I should reach out and say how sorry I am or hold off for a few days?  

groovygrl

Wow that is awkward, I'm sorry (though glad for you!). I would wait I think and get some info about what was said to them and if any reference was made to you not being laid off, etc....my first thought would be that they would think you knew something about it ahead of time or something like that and even if not, there are probably some hurt feelings you might want to let cool off. GL! Does this mean your job is going to change a lot? Hope it goes ok!

Ms.Jade

groovygrl:

Wow that is awkward, I'm sorry (though glad for you!). I would wait I think and get some info about what was said to them and if any reference was made to you not being laid off, etc....my first thought would be that they would think you knew something about it ahead of time or something like that and even if not, there are probably some hurt feelings you might want to let cool off. GL! Does this mean your job is going to change a lot? Hope it goes ok!

Probably! I know we're going in a new direction and I have been in on some of those talks. Thanks for the advice! 

 

Jenny952

Yes, I do think you should/could call them if you are close enough to them.  I have had friends get laid off that I've worked with, and they have all told me how weird it was that people they thought were close with didn't say anything to them.  It wasn't your decision to lay them off, so it would be a very nice gesture to say how sorry you are for them and that you hope they'll land on their feet.  You don't have to offer to do anything for them, just reaching out will make them feel less alone.  Good luck with things at work!

KL777

I'm sorry to hear that but I'm glad you were spared. Yes, I would contact them to express your sympathy.