(Long post, sorry)
We were notified today that, despite being severely understaffed, they’re making some layoffs. I might be safe but even losing 1 person is going to be really bad.
They’re bringing in more French speaking workers (we’re in Ontario, Canada) but 99% of our clients are English speakers. We’re so understaffed that some people have taken stress leave. And we were trying to find a reason to this madness but since the French workers make more money it doesn’t even save the company any money.
It makes no logistical sense.
And the company made $3 billion in 2024 and last year they made over $4 billion. Since they don’t really give raises or bonuses (not in the 5 years I’ve worked there) I cannot figure out why they’re doing this.
I guess it doesn’t matter in the long run but I’m really tired of ending up in jobs that start out good then 3 months later they show their true colours. Then a couple years later they actively make life worse for their employees. It’s happened several times & I’ve been laid off at one (in a mass layoffs), and had one job where I moved cities for then less than 3 months later it went out of business. It was horrible.
So, my question is, what industries are the least likely to play games with their employees or lay people off when they don’t have to?
I have a BA, took a couple computer design programs (which are now outdated) & always struggled to find work. I don’t have a lot of savings & going back to school feels pointless & wasting money. 🤷♀️
I know many people who are like me. One friend had been victim to mass layoffs at 4 of her jobs & 1 went out of business for her. On the flip side I know a few people who are charmed- they do a 20 minute interview, get called a few hours later & end up with a great job. Several times over. They’re not unemployed more than a few weeks.
I understand it’s different for everyone but uncertainty makes me feels sick & I think my anxiety will probably get really bad if I lose my job. It hasn’t been good the last year or so.
I’m also aware the issues with AI but from my research everyone’s jobs are affected.
But generally speaking, is there a job or industry that usually avoids mass layoffs (unless no other choice) or treats their employees well?
And I understand union jobs are great but where are they ? I can’t seem to find any.
Places like Bell Canada used to be well known for being great but now they often do ‘up to’ 1yr contracts then let people go at 11 months because they have to put employees into the union if they reach 12 months of employment.
Anyway, I’d appreciate your advice if you can think of suggestions on where to find the good & somewhat stable jobs.
Since the professional advice I’ve gotten about job hunting & interviews is just ‘keep doing what you’re doing’ 🙄 I could use some insight I guess.
If I do lose my job I want an idea where to start first.
Thank you