Originally Posted by
downtube42
It seems I survived the that round, although several people I know including a couple good friends did not. I could put together a pretty solid team with people let go.
I think terminations this year allow them to charge the cost of severance against 2012, giving them a way shift expenses from 2013 to 2012. Wall Street will like that. When things turn around globally, they'll bring in college fresh-outs to fill the holes. Net result is a younger, lower-paid workforce. Wall Street will like that, as well. Meanwhile, productivity tanks in the short term as people reel from the talent that was walked out the door. Fresh-outs will take years to become as productive as the shoes they are trying to fill. Many of them won't even stay long enough for that day to come.
From what you post and my experience I would advise taking a good look at leaving anyway. I'd take this as a reprieve that gives you a chance to do the best thing for you instead of the company. It is looking after its' bottom line not yours. Look at youself as "Downtube Inc." What is best for your company over as far in the future as you can see. The company has already served notice that you and your fellow employees are in line to be made redundant, just not right now.
Don't get sidetracked my the minutae of taxes, non-competes and all those details. Don't fall into the trap of just hanging on and praying that it is the other guy who gets the ax, sparing you. That is not only bad business for Downtube Inc. it is hard on the emotions and attitude. Instead update your resume and start looking for another job. Maybe even get the details on how to start your own business.
You may decide to stay at your company. Or, with this fresh look you may decide to start your own company. Or, you may go to another company. Or, ????. And that is the point. You have been given an opportunity and time to make the best decision for Your Company, not Theirs.