We Are Now Beginning Our Descent | HR Fishbowl

I’d be really interested in hearing some of the other “telltale signs” you (the readers) have encountered along the way…

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“Attention Passengers: We are now beginning our descent” is a familiar phrase to any of us who’ve had the joy of travelling by air. This in-flight announcement marks the end of one journey and often the beginning of another. It also serves the purpose of giving you time to prepare and collect your thoughts for what lies ahead.Unfortunately a descent isn’t always provided with advance notice, even when it’s your own employer who is going down. Much like many Americans who live paycheck to paycheck, the reality is that many of the organizations that issue those paychecks aren’t operating all that differently. One terrible quarter, one semester’s under-enrollment, or one failed product launch could mean trouble.So without that announcement, how can know if your company is struggling?

Here are a few signs that should prompt you to dust off your resume and update your dormant LinkedIn profile.

The first is when a payroll is delayed due a “technical problem” or “bank error.” Prepare yourself for a harsh reality – this is a lie. There are cash flow issues.

Another is missed deadlines across the organization. Projects usually have a reciprocal time/money relationship. If there is more money, they take less time. If there is less money…missed deadlines.

There are also subtle signs to look out for. Like when the company attempts to save money by cutting the most minor of expenses. If there is no longer milk in the fridge for your morning coffee, worry.

Finally, a telltale sign is erratic behavior at the top of the organization. If your senior management has already exhausted the rational and calculated options, they’ll likely try to pull a rabbit out of a hat. Trust me, that is going to be one bumpy ride.

Safe travels.

Image Credit: tombothetominator (via Compfight)

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