Name: Sheri L. PrupisInstitution: Jewish Vocational Service
E-mail Address: sprupis@panix.com
Format: Paper presentation
Suggested Audience: Anyone whose job is currently in jeopardy or may be at some future time.
Presentation Outcome:
1. know how to move forward if the job ends
2. move to the next job out of choice
3. keep self-esteem intact
Presentation Content:
On May 23, 1995, at exactly 2:05 PM my worst nightmare came true. The Provost informed me that my skills were no longer needed. Her fifteen minute monologue forever and permanently changed me. I was not prepared for losing my job nor was I prepared for the way I changed. I did not tell any of my colleagues of my situation and quickly dropped out of professional contact. There were many dark moments during the next few months.
My purpose in going public now is to allow my colleagues to learn from my experiences. It is critical to ãbe preparedä for such moments. Downsizing is political and economical and rarely a reflection on our skills.
Each of us must do the following to avert disaster and remain in control of the carnival ride known as our careers:
- Stay Technical
- Become proficient in a non computer area
- Maintain a balanced life
- Evaluate total life priorities
- Separate your sense of self from evaluations related to work
- Stay positive
- Keep in contact with your colleagues
- Use SIGUCCS to develop your professional network