Planning

This week, I received the unfortunate news that I will be laid off from my UX research position at a small company where I've worked for the past 7 years. The company, which has around 200 employees, has been struggling financially for quite some time, losing clients and failing to bring in new business. As a result, they are letting go of about 40 employees, which is roughly 20% of the workforce. While I am grateful that they are offering a severance package, I am unsure of the amount and how to approach my exit interview with HR. I’m seeking advice on how to negotiate my severance, considering the company's dire financial situation. I realize I might not have much leverage, but I plan to present my case professionally, highlighting my good performance over the years and the challenging job market. I hope that by doing so, I can make a compelling argument for a better severance package.

I am 27 years old and have been struggling to find remote work for nearly a decade. My only work experience is 1.5 years in AI training, and I hold an undergraduate degree in a general field. Unfortunately, I never completed any internships due to my social limitations, which have made it difficult for me to develop a professional network or gain references. I deal with a disordered personality, possibly schizoid or avoidant traits, along with a specific phobia that has led to my asocial behavior for over ten years. I receive periodic psychiatric care but can't afford additional therapy, and my previous five years of therapy did not yield any significant improvements. While I can interact with people, I need the comfort of my own space to function effectively, which complicates my job search. I apply to every remote role I can find, even those with low pay and no benefits, but I'm often met with silence. I'm feeling exhausted and frustrated with the job application process, as it seems like I'm wasting my time on positions that I will likely never be considered for. I am open to any remote work opportunities, excluding adult content, and I'm seeking guidance on how to navigate this challenging situation. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I got laid off today, September 17th, as part of my company's restructuring efforts. This was my first experience with a layoff, and I have to say, I didn't particularly love my job, so I'm not devastated about losing it. In fact, I think this might be the best outcome compared to being fired or having to quit. Now, I have to fully commit to my job search, which I was only dabbling in before. Still, it feels really strange. I went in for a one-on-one meeting and left without my office keys and computer. I think I'm in shock. It's a weird mix of emotions—embarrassment, anger, disappointment. I had a good rapport with my supervisor, so to have it all come down to a quick two-minute conversation about being let go is disheartening. It just feels like a stark reminder that everything was transactional. I guess it's time to move on to better opportunities.

I recently received a separation agreement from my company, where I worked as a project manager. The agreement states that I will enter garden leave in a month, lasting for two weeks. I'm unsure whether I should continue working during this interim period before garden leave kicks in. The severance package is a lump sum of six weeks' pay, which I would receive on my final day. I've been considering whether I should start taking my unlimited PTO starting tomorrow. I've heard mixed opinions on what to do next. Some say that if I stop working now, I risk losing my severance, while others suggest I could ask HR or my manager for clarification. I want to ensure I handle this situation correctly, so any advice on negotiations or soft rules regarding PTO would be greatly appreciated.

I currently work part-time at a dine-in theater, making minimum wage plus tips. I've been here for about a year and initially planned to leave after December, but I stayed longer because of a great general manager. Unfortunately, he transferred to another location in March, and corporate appointed a new manager who has been a nightmare. This new manager lacks care for the staff and has been overly critical of my work. For instance, he left me to manage food and ticket sales during a busy weekend, only to criticize me for being 'messy' despite handling everything alone. Recently, I went on a three-week trip and informed my workplace in advance about my absence. However, I discovered that I was scheduled for shifts during my vacation, which I couldn't attend due to being abroad without data. I emailed my manager to clarify, but he responded with a harsh message accusing me of being unprofessional. He even threatened disciplinary action for not being able to cover shifts, despite my prior notice. I'm feeling increasingly frustrated and am considering whether to contact corporate or just leave this job altogether.

I was laid off yesterday from my role at a large consulting company, just one month after returning from a three-month unpaid medical leave. The layoffs were supposedly due to new AI initiatives, which is ironic since our CEO had recently claimed that AI would create new job opportunities. The timing feels particularly troubling to me. During my medical leave, I relocated to another state, and I had only been back at work for a little over a month when I got the news. Interestingly, my client wanted me to stay on; they even questioned why I was being let go since they were still paying for my role. I had also saved positive performance feedback before losing access, so I’m puzzled about the reasons behind my termination. On top of that, the company is actively hiring offshore employees at lower costs while cutting U.S. positions. They offered me a severance package that was surprisingly generous, which raises my suspicions about potential legal risks they might be trying to mitigate. I’m considering speaking with an employment attorney before signing the severance agreement to understand my rights, especially given the circumstances of my layoff. Additionally, I’m anxious about filing for unemployment. Since I moved states just a few months ago and only worked in my new state for about a month before being laid off, I’m unsure where to file or if I’ll even qualify. With over 10 years of experience in software engineering and a Master’s in Data Analytics, I’ve worked extensively in AI, cloud, mobile, and enterprise software. This situation is incredibly stressful for me and my family, and I would appreciate any advice from those who have faced similar challenges.

I have been with Citi for over 20 years, and it’s disheartening to see how much the company has changed. I used to take pride in working here, but now I feel that the organization has lost its way. Recently, I learned that a significant number of US positions are set to be eliminated by 2028, as the company is shifting focus towards automation and offshoring jobs. I was part of the planning discussions, so I know this is not just speculation. It’s frustrating to witness how little the company values its employees, especially those of us based in the US. I can’t help but feel that we are being pushed aside in favor of technology and cheaper labor abroad. I also dread the upcoming conversations about bonuses and raises, especially when I see how some individuals, like Jane, continue to receive massive compensation increases while the rest of us struggle to get even a fraction of that. It’s time for US citizens to reconsider where they bank and support institutions that truly value their employees.

I found out last week that I’m getting laid off from my job due to client budget cuts, which was a tough blow. However, this week brought some unexpected good news. I discovered an internal role within my company that aligns perfectly with my skills and aspirations—it's honestly a dream job for me. I applied right away and have an interview scheduled for Monday. I'm really excited about this opportunity! Tomorrow, I'm meeting with my current manager to seek advice and strategize for the interview. I’m keeping this under wraps from friends and family because I’m a bit superstitious about sharing good news too early, but I just had to share my excitement somewhere. I feel confident about this new role since I know my manager has successfully helped others transition to new positions in the past.

I am currently facing a tough decision at my job as a Data Analyst at a finance company in Texas. I initially accepted this position due to a family emergency, even though it wasn't my first choice. Unfortunately, my experience has been quite challenging. I am the only analyst on my team, and my manager, who referred me, tends to micromanage, creating a toxic work environment. This has taken a toll on my mental health, leading me to seek therapy and medication. Recently, I was placed on an unofficial Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) back in May, and despite my efforts to improve, I was presented with an official PIP or a two-month severance package. I have until Monday to decide. My mental health is suffering, and I am considering the severance, especially since HR has indicated they won't contest my unemployment claim if I choose that route. However, they are now classifying my departure as voluntary, which complicates things. I have lost weight due to stress, and my physical health has declined as well. I am also looking to change careers, as I no longer want to stay in finance. I have been exploring other options and taking evening classes to pivot my career. After nearly a year and a half in this role, I feel burnt out and unsupported. I’m reaching out for advice on whether to take the severance or attempt to navigate the PIP, as I feel like my company is just waiting for an opportunity to let me go.

Today, I was informed by one of my managers that I am being placed on a "plan" for the next 30 days, which feels very much like a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), even though they didn't officially label it as such. I have two managers: one who has always supported me and another who is known for micromanaging. This second manager has been particularly critical of my work, often requiring me to get her approval on emails, which can take her weeks. This delay has caused issues with clients and has led to me forgetting about emails I’ve sent her. During our conversation, my manager stated that he wants to help me grow in the company, but the structure of weekly check-ins and the threat of escalating to a 60 to 90-day plan with HR involvement if I don't meet expectations feels concerning. I’ve made a few mistakes in my emails, and while I understand the need for oversight, the micromanagement style is frustrating. I’m the youngest on the team and at the start of my career, and I’ve heard complaints from other account executives about this manager’s behavior, including her tardiness and poor communication. I’m unsure how to navigate this situation, especially since no formal paperwork has been signed. I’m considering sending a recap email to clarify the meeting details and involve HR to ensure everything is documented.

I left my job about a month ago due to mental health issues after being there for over six years. I had used all my FMLA and initially returned to work, but my mental health regressed again, leading me to resign. Now, I'm feeling better and considering reapplying to the same position. I know I would have to start over as a new applicant, but I truly enjoyed my role and was devastated to leave. I'm unsure if it's too soon to contact HR or if I should wait a few months before reaching out. I've heard mixed advice; some say I should talk to my manager first, while others suggest it might be better to look for new opportunities instead. I'm really torn about what to do next.

I've been actively applying for jobs in data analysis and engineering, drawing from my experience in healthcare, startups, and government contracts. Currently, I'm finishing up my Master's in Data Science at Columbia while working at a startup on a stipend basis. I recently sought feedback on my resume, as I felt it wasn't getting the traction I expected despite having built several end-to-end side projects. I was particularly concerned about potential formatting issues, the impact of my bullet points, and whether my projects seemed too scattered. I reached out to the community for honest critiques to help me identify what works and what doesn't in my resume.

Today I received some exciting news! Out of over 400 applicants for an Associate Director position, I made it to the shortlist of 20 candidates. While I'm uncertain if I'll progress to the next round or ultimately secure the job, I can't help but feel a sense of pride in reaching this stage. After applying to countless positions recently, this recognition is a much-needed boost. So, I'm taking a moment to celebrate this small victory. Regardless of where this journey leads, I'm embracing this win!

I recently moved to Dallas, TX after getting married and am currently working in GIS, where I've spent the last 5 years. I also have a year of experience in land surveying, primarily using ArcPro and ArcMap. Originally from a rural town in Alabama, I grew up helping my grandfather with his cattle, and now I'm looking to transition out of GIS while still utilizing my skills. I love working with computers and have built my own homelab, but I really dislike the city life and the long commutes to an office. I'm seeking a full-time IT position at a ranch, farm, or equestrian center where I can return to my roots and work in a more natural setting. I've tried reaching out to around 15 people in the area but haven't had any luck. My resume includes roles as a GIS Technician and CAD Technician, along with certifications from Auburn University in mapping and drafting. If anyone has leads or advice on finding such a position, I would greatly appreciate it!

I recently received notice of my layoff from my role at a nonprofit organization, and I have to continue working until November. I had a feeling this was coming, but it still hit hard. While I don’t need to be in the office every day, I will have to go in occasionally, and honestly, it's been really tough. Every time I step into the office, I feel overwhelmed and want to cry. I’ve been feeling quite depressed about the situation and the job market, and I find myself crying at home too, especially since I can do that in the comfort of my own space. My boss's comment during the layoff notice didn’t help either; she mentioned that at least my cat and I wouldn’t be homeless since I rent from family. I think she meant well, but it made me feel worse. I'm trying to remain professional and leave on a good note, but I'm struggling with the emotional toll of these office days. I’m actively searching for a new job and will receive unemployment benefits if I can’t secure something quickly. I’m not necessarily looking for advice on the job search itself, but I would appreciate any tips on coping with the in-office work during this difficult time. I just want to make it through this period without losing my composure.

I'm currently working in HVAC and have been with my present company for about 4 months. I joined after my previous employer shut down our commercial department, where I had been for 5 years. I was expecting to stay long-term, but now I'm considering a change because my current role doesn't offer any opportunities for extra income like overtime or commission. I have a pending offer from a residential company that provides significant commissions and more overtime, but the commute would increase from 30 minutes to 50 minutes. However, since I'm mostly driving to job sites that are about an hour away, the commute change isn't as impactful as it seems. I'm worried about job hopping and how it might look on my resume, but the financial benefits of the new position could be substantial, potentially adding a few thousand dollars a month. The benefits are similar, with the new company offering 12 days of PTO compared to my current 15 days, and a 4% 401K match after 3 months versus my current 3% match after a year. I'm seeking advice on whether I should take the new job.

I was recently let go from my first full-time engineering position. It was a tough experience, as I had high hopes for my role and was eager to contribute to the team. I’m now in the process of reflecting on what went wrong and how I can improve my skills for future opportunities. It's a challenging time, but I'm determined to find a new position that aligns better with my career goals.

I've been working for a small company in the Midwest for the past 7 years, and I’m feeling really stuck in my role as a salesperson. There are about 25 of us here, with half of the team in sales, and I've noticed some concerning trends regarding pay and management. Currently, I’m on a payment structure that gives me $23/hour plus commission after hitting my yearly goal, but I haven't seen any raises or bonuses since I started. The commission structures here vary widely, with some people making 100% commission and likely earning six figures, while others like me struggle to meet our goals with limited support. I've been trying to talk to management about switching to a more lucrative payment structure, but they keep saying I'm not making enough sales to qualify for the better options. I’ve been consistently improving my sales numbers and am on track to exceed my goal this year, which makes me question whether I should stay or look for something better. The company relies heavily on smaller accounts, and I've seen a high turnover rate among new hires because the learning curve is steep and the pay is stagnant. With inflation affecting everyone, several of my coworkers, including young mothers, are considering leaving for better opportunities. My husband thinks I should explore other options, and we’re even considering moving states if it means I can find a better job. So, I’m left wondering if it’s time to walk away from this position. Should I stick it out and see if I can make more in commission, or is it time to look for a new opportunity where I might be valued more?

I filed my unemployment claim on August 31, 2026, and I'm trying to understand if I've been approved. I've already claimed benefits for two weeks and plan to file my third weekly claim this Sunday. My waiting week ended on September 6, and I'm hoping to receive payments for the weeks ending September 13 and September 20. I noticed that my unpaid week was processed on September 16, even though the waiting week ended earlier. My payment history shows $0.00 for the week ending September 6, which has me a bit confused. Can I assume that my claim went through and that I should expect payments next Tuesday or Wednesday? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

I've been working at my current company for nearly five years, but the last two years have been quite challenging. My manager's frustration with the company often spilled over into our interactions, and on one occasion, he yelled at me during a meeting with our business partners when I was giving an update. I was taken aback and didn’t know how to respond, fearing potential retaliation. I initially thought it was just a one-off incident, but his behavior became a pattern. Thankfully, he is no longer with the company, but now I'm left trying to rebuild my confidence before I start applying for new positions. The toughest part is viewing job postings through the lens of my actual skills and experience as a senior manager, rather than the self-doubt that has crept in from my current environment. I also find myself questioning whether potential workplaces are safe. To help with this, I've started looking at managers and their teams on LinkedIn to see how long people have stayed at companies, hoping to gauge the culture. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has faced a similar situation of being yelled at or mistreated at work. What strategies did you use to rebuild your confidence and trust in your own abilities?