Thread regarding IBM layoffs

As an IBM employee who was laid off in 2009 I can say with certainty that I ended up with a better job. The economy much better now than it was in 2009. for about 8 of the 9 years I worked there annually you hear the excuses why there a nor or small raises. In my new job I have gotten a decent raise every year for 9 years.

I retired in 94 after 30 years because I could see the writing on the wall. I remember a 10 year IBMer asking me what it was about 25-30 year employees that made them have that "Walk on broken glass" dedication. I told him that he could not understand it because all of the reasons for that dedication were no longer there.

I certainly understand your frustration. I'm already weary of people telling me "don't worry - you'll find something". Fact of the matter, no one knows or understands another's circumstances. I'm trying myself to come to grips with the fact that life is likely not to be the same and fighting the temporary paralysis that comes with fear. I'm hoping that I can pull myself together and effectively attack this problem for myself like I have so many times on behalf of IBM. However, I will say that I am weary of this "whack-a-mole" game we've all been playing regarding our future employment. Best of luck to all affected.

I don't think anyone is saying someone is better off unemployed, but I can speak from experience when I say I'm happier working somewhere OTHER than IBM. It took me about 3 years from the time I really started looking until I found the right opportunity, but if you are not growing your skills, networking, and looking for your next gig - you have no one to blame but yourself when you get RA'd.

Agree that it is not a bed of roses outside but couldn’t stand the constant stress with layoff, seeing your coworker on PIP or RA’ed simply because of bad management strategy and decision. So the point is you have choice, don’t limit yourself. Learn new skills. Do it while you can. Been there done that. Couldn’t be happier.