We are here because we're sad, shocked and metaphorically beaten up. What are your plans? Are you going to those classes that you've been putting off? Looking for a job elsewhere? Hanging on tight and rebuilding? what sort of guidance is your leadership giving you? Here in the MW it's been business as usual.
Whatever you are doing, remember to care of yourselves fellow team members.
Actively looking for work in the public/govt sector free from wall street moneys that taint your workplace every new fiscal year
I consider myself to be VERY fortunate as one of those laid off at FYE 2015. My demographic is 60+ but I have found several opportunities to use the skills I had before, and those i developed while working at WFM.
The truth, as those who work there know, is that WFM is a completely mismanaged company, run by a group of delusional zealots with little or no actual business training. It is also true, however, that most people outside the company don't know this and see WFM on your resume as an endorsement of your skills and training. Use it! Get out there and see for yourself that you are very employable and, indeed valuable, to other employers.
It took a while for me to shake off the brainwashing effects of working there; fear, paranoia and anxiety are insidious toxins. Eventually you'll wake up one morning feeling liberated and the future will bring you peace. Perspective is powerful.
You will miss the many wonderful TMs you met there, but, I promise you, you will NOT miss the deception, treachery or stupidity that passes as "leadership".
Good luck and Godspeed!
I held various positions in the last 10 years including 4 as an ATL. I stepped down when it was apparent that no one cared to help me promote or succeed. The good news is that I got to witness some serious Karma come full circle. The boss everyone told me to suck up and deal with got fired and some other things went down. More good news is that I finally know what to do and am gathering pieces for grad school applications. Bad news is I haven't quite found a job that pays what I make now , Even though I took a pay cut when i stepped down. WF is retail and it's not a good long term career option no matter what your STL or whomever may tell you. You are capable of so much more. This company needs money fast and they need to improve their stock. They will stop at nothing to make this happen.
I love that even on here, on the layoff site, TMs are looking out for one another and appreciating each other. Big love for you all from SP.
Freelancing while working on my master's in psychology
Best wishes y'all. I'm part time at another retailer and getting the credentials I need for a long-planned career change.
To the older team members, if they don't have any other job options lined up, I would suggest going back to school as well for a couple of reasons. First, because it will update your skill set, which is essential in this job market. Do a little research, perhaps talk with a career coach or guidance counselor, etc and find out what the truly in-demand skills are and master those, even if they are a bit of a stretch for you. Secondly, you can get student loans which will not only cover the cost of your classes but may help with living expenses also. Additionally, I believe you can work at least part time and not pay taxes on it while going to school (check with an accountant, tax preparer, etc). I'm not encouraging anyone to take on debt, which student loans are, but it may be better than just being unemployed and the money could get you through a tough time.
I wish all of you, young, old, and in-between the very best of all blessings for your future. Believe me, I know what you're going through.
Thanks for this boost. For what it's worth this community here has made me feel human. I feel like I'm not the only one at work who feels this way, but we're all too shell shocked most of the time to discuss it at the store. It's sad to see the older people worried, because their options are probably dry, but yes I'm back in school in nursing and will be out by the end of the year.
I know a few people who are going back to school. Mostly the younger team members, the older ones just seem quiet and worried.