Facing Job Uncertainty: Should I Stay Quiet or Start Job Hunting Amid Recession?

Hi Seniors,

I am new to this firm. I have joined this company a few months back as an HR. I am the only HR in the company. This company is in turnkey projects and only 2 years old. When I joined this company, I was quite excited about my profile as I am the one who has to establish a whole new department and policies. There was so much to do and learn. I sacrificed a bit on my salary and other benefits that I was getting from my last company.

Only after a month or so, I came to know about my boss's affair with his secretary. She is arrogant and has so much attitude problem that I can't even explain. She has a lot of issues with me. She doesn't like me because I am getting a higher salary than her (she mentioned it twice in a very taunting way). Secondly, she was handling HR-related work before me, which was taken from her after I joined. She expects me to follow her instructions. None of the employees can say anything to her because of her relationship with the boss; they just keep on pleasing her so they can stay with the company. Many of my colleagues suggested the same. They said here your work won't count, only if you please her, you'll stay happy with the company. Honestly, I can't do this.

Now the company is running at a loss and doesn't have any projects in hand. So, my director is planning to remove a few employees from the company. I feel my chances are much higher because of my relationship with his secretary.

On one hand, I feel so bad that I am going to lose my job, but on the other hand, I feel it's okay because I can search for a better job.

I just want a suggestion from the seniors: should I leave the job and start searching for a new one before they let me go, or should I just keep quiet until some official order comes? My only concern is if I leave my job, and what if I won't get a job again because of the recession problem.

Many people told me it happens everywhere; you should just know how to handle it and tackle the situation. It's completely on your luck whether you get everything good in a company. Can anyone suggest how we should deal with such situations?

Thank you all for your suggestions in advance.

Hi,

After reading, I can say, "Why are you waiting for the official notice? Start searching side by side. I am sure with your qualifications and skills, you will get the job."

Cheers,
Nidhi

First, I wonder why you continued. Anyways, my views:

You thought of quitting now because you fear you may lose your job as they are trying to remove a few people. So, it would be better if you hold on for now and keep searching for jobs too. Move for the right one.

And why did you bring in your secretary's and boss's affair in your confusion? I guess you were talking about "should I move now or wait and get an offer and then move."

Don't go in for what others say (in your office) because if you feel something is wrong, don't join the crowd and be a mere spectator. I guess you should have started your hunt long back...anyways, better late than never.

Hi KKC,

If you are so sure that you are going to lose your job anyway, then what are you waiting for? Start searching for a job right now but don't leave unless any official notice is served. If you get something better, then go for it; otherwise, stay quiet and wait for the normal turn of events. Who knows, there could be a total turnaround of events, and it may not be you but your boss's secretary who could be shown the door.

One more thing, try to evaluate yourself and see whether you are personally satisfied with the job or not. If not, then there is no use staying there anyway. If yes, then stay quiet and work hard. Let things fall into place normally.

All the best.

Regards

Hi KKC,

I think you should start searching for a new job. But don't leave your present job unless any official notice is served. I'm sure you will be able to find a better job than your present one.

The golden rule says, "If you can't change something, change yourself."

One more golden rule says, "Sirf nalayak logo ko naukri nahi milti."

So, if you want to stay in your company, follow the 1st rule; otherwise, follow the 2nd one.

Good luck!

Prashant

Dear KKC,

Don't be afraid to be yourself. Remember one thing in life: "it is better to solve the problem instead of escaping from it – nobody is sure what kind of new problem will wait for you there. The other meaning of an HR employee is a High-Risk Employee – a person who takes risks and performs a risky job because he/she is a bridge between employees and management.

Being friendly with everybody is the first priority of an HR person. Do your job perfectly and don't engage in cheap conversations that happen in the office. The best way to destroy the enemy is to make them a friend.

Don't be afraid and run here and there. Do your job and understand your responsibilities. If you are not satisfied, then search for a new job on the side, but don't leave until you find a good opportunity.

Regards,

Pankaj Chandan

Dear KKC,

It's everywhere, it exists, and it depends on you how you react. It's not necessary to be a part of these dirty politics, but it is quite necessary that you should have a contemporary mindset to deal with. What Chandan has said is very correct that HR = High Risk, but it's not for you. Make it possible for others. You will definitely get a better opportunity if you want, so start searching.

God bless you.

Hi KKC,

The kind of people you're dealing with in your office are found everywhere, so try to learn to deal with such people. I personally feel a person's influence on one's job is very limited when you are a performer, so leave thinking about such people.

Now coming to the issue of the job change due to the company going in losses, it is something you need to think about. I feel you need to seriously search for a better job or even consider reaching out to your previous company if you are in contact with them. Don't make a decision on this issue unless you receive an official notice for the same. First, secure an offer letter in your hand and then inform your present boss.

All the best to you.

Better to have a job on hand and then start searching.

It's dependent on you how you take it forward.
The happenings in the office are entirely different from your career. So, search vigorously and keep one offer on hand (preferably a better one) and then proceed with leaving the present job.

My suggestion is as above.

Hi KKC,
The kind of people you're dealing with in your office are found everywhere, so try to learn to deal with such people. I personally feel a person's influence on one's job is very limited when you are a performer, so stop thinking about such people. Now, coming to the issue of the job change due to the company experiencing losses is something you need to think about. I feel you need to seriously search for a better job or even consider trying in your previous company if you are in contact with them. Don't make a decision on this issue unless you receive an official notice for the same. First, secure an offer letter in your hand and then inform your present boss. All the best to you.

Thank you to everyone for their suggestions. I'll surely try to learn how to deal with these kinds of situations and won't let it spoil my career. I am looking for a change side by side.

I just have a bit of doubt about Prashant's second golden rule. There are many instances where I have seen those "nalayak log" getting good opportunities just because of their "maska bazi." And now it's happening everywhere, even in government jobs, educational institutes, etc.

Anyway, I still like your suggestion and I will surely work on it, especially your first golden rule.

Dear KKC,

It is very difficult to find a better job considering the present scenario, hence kindly hold on to your present job until something better comes up. It makes no sense to leave your job and take up anything that comes your way.

It is very well said that you can only choose your company but not your boss and colleagues... :icon6:

Also, considering the fact that you are the only HR there, you will be the last person who will be asked to leave.

Dear KKC:

Try your utmost to get an offer first and then consider resigning. Don't quit your job without having another opportunity lined up. I suggest that you should remain employed while actively searching for a better job.

Best regards,

I completely agree with the views of Awvik. If job satisfaction is not there, in any case, you should search for another one; otherwise, tackle the situation as it is advisable not to quit your current job in 'this period of recession'.

Hi KKC,

No. 1 - Do a SWOT analysis and come to a conclusion: do you need a change or not?

No. 2 - If you are the breadwinner, then continue working, search for a new job, and then resign to play it safe. Otherwise, just resign and be at home. Choose the correct and suitable job for yourself.

R. Vidhya

Dear Friend,

I'm coming to the issue of the job change, okay. But you need to think about this situation. I feel you need to seriously search for a better job. Don't take any steps regarding the present job and the issue unless you receive an official notice for the same. First, get an offer letter in your hand from a good company and then inform them about your resignation. Definitely, you will find a better job than your current one.

All the best to you.

RAJU
HR
Chennai
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Dear KKC,

Firstly, maintain a good relationship with the boss's secretary despite her arrogance, as she has been with the company longer than you. Follow her instructions diligently.

Next, focus on your work, strive to complete tasks on time, and work hard to perform to the best of your abilities, aiming for 100% effort. Your senior will recognize the positive direction of your work.

Lastly, do not resign from your job voluntarily unless instructed to do so. Leaving prematurely can have a negative impact on your resume and make it challenging to secure a new position. Consider exploring alternative options if dealing with the secretary becomes unbearable.

Thanks,
Anju

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Hi KKC,

Take the BOSS's secretary for a coffee or a movie and be tactful with her. If you are able to establish good PR with the BOSS's secretary, half of your problems will be resolved.

I also agree with most of the participants that you should not leave the job right now, as the job market is worse. Wait until the company gives you a pink slip, and meanwhile, search for a change as well.

All the best and be prepared for the worst!

Cheers!
AB

Hi,

Without leaving your current job, you can start searching for a new one. Remember that a recession is not a permanent situation. It is important to be diplomatic and handle the situation with the secretary carefully.

Regards,
Utpal