Changing lanes has been launched as a response to the financial crisis around many retrenchments in this very difficult economic time.
Many companies have closed their doors while others are having to retrench staff.
In our research we find that employees being retrenched go through a number of emotions.
Even in the current economic times, retrenchment may still catch people by surprise.
Employees may be aware that retrenchments are happening but often don’t believe that it will happen to them. This can lead to shock and/or disbelief as to what has happened.
This is seen as the first stage in the post retrenchment reaction.
The change from being employed to being unemployed as with other types of change can cause a lot of stress for most people.
The second stage of this process may be moving from the shock into anger. Anger at oneself, anger at the company or colleagues who have not lost their jobs, and being stuck with the perception of being treated unfairly.
This is often a dangerous phase as it may cause reputational damage to the company as well as the individual.
Getting some help to understand, accept, be heard and start strategizing for the future in this phase is vital.
Research has proven that anger left undealt with, can often manifest into depression. It is common to feel regret, sadness and sometimes despair as reality sets in. When people are out of work for a period they may experience loss of confidence or have feelings of worthlessness. It is important to seek the right help and support at this time.
People may also feel guilty at letting themselves and or their families down.
Acceptance and facing reality, as well as being activated into exploring options, is the better place to be but we understand the process that it takes to get there.
If this article resonates with you, or you are aware of anyone going through this process, reach out to us so that we can assist you in moving forward and get you back on track.
We are good at what we do because we care.