When an organization is not operating effectively there are always warning signs. Companies are designed to deliver profits and returns for investors so underlying problems will ultimately be addressed and as soon as is possible. Changes will result that can negatively impact the jobs of some, yet might offer opportunities for those who act to position themselves wisely.
Let us consider some of these macro level warning signs that might ultimately cause developments which can affect (our) jobs:
- There are talks of group/company sale
- New management is already under construction
- Outsourcing discussions or trips are occurring
- Recent acquisitions forewarn consolidations
- Headcount is flat or declining
- Ongoing consolidation of groups/jobs/tasks/ is occurring
- Sales aren’t happening
- Bookings are below forecast
- Management leadership lacks enthusiasm and drive
- Reorganizations are in discussion
- Key managers are bailing out
- Unidentified management meetings are underway
- Bonuses are shrinking or vanishing
- On-time delivery performance is eroding
- Internal systems are inadequate or faulty
- Profit outlook is declining
- Aggressive product pricing changes are necessary
- New products are late or abandoned
- Aggressive cost cutting / company events canceled / perks vanishing
- Focus increased on attendance/work-hours
It is easy enough to see if some or many of these high-level warning signs are in play. Even more troubling would be personal warning signs, such as:
- Discussions illuminating details of your daily tasks or interfaces with other groups
- Reduced interest in your opinion (diminishing personal power)
There are many more signs that might be considered, yet the listing above is comprehensive and should illuminate most liabilities. Perhaps such occurrences are not ultimately threatening to your own specific position? However, it would prove unwise to ignore them without further thoughtful consideration or discrete inquiries through trusted colleagues.
As a wise man once said, “Only the paranoid survive.” So, even though all companies and operating groups have problems it is wise to check into what is going on if some or many of the warning signs noted above are present in your work environment. It should be of particular concern if these items just recently occurred or have taken a sudden turn-for-the-worse. In either case, be sure you have a plan and plan proactively.
On a positive note, always remember that change is opportunity. If such warning signs are driving things in the direction of risk and uncertainty for some, then there is an opportunity for advancement and progression for others. After all, a problem addressed and overcome will positively highlight any individual’s ability to take on tough challenges and succeed!