R.I.P. Windstream
NT / BST VSO
Announced: Jan 8
Results: Jan 29
Last Day: Feb 9
Like many of you, I have been riding the storm of uncertainty for awhile now. The last year has been extremely rough on me, and even though this is not how I thought it would end, I’m walking away after 16 years. I’ve been real hesitant on making derogatory comments on here or Stream, but the rest of your comments have been like therapy for me cause I know I’m not alone. It’s ranged from outbursts of anger and profanity from my direct supervisor to retaliation after reporting a customer service issue to corporate and Tony Thomas. I’m still not here to air dirty laundry, but event after event has painted the picture of the toxic culture that has been created that no longer values employees or customers. Even though I’m on my way out, I still struggle with the thought of throwing in the towel or giving up. It’s just not in my character or DNA. Recently, I had a Director tell me that my problem was, “that I cared TOO much.” This is clearly not a collaborative or open environment for suggestions or improvements. If you don’t believe me, take a look around or pause for a moment to listen to the top executives all the way down to local management. That overwhelming tone and behavior has created what we all face today...and sadly places us on the edge of a possible bankruptcy. Most managers are in “C.Y.A. mode” and sadly just a “yes man.” It doesn’t matter how you paint the pig - -the pig is still ugly, if you continue to neglect these two assets, then the company will NOT be successful. It doesn’t matter how you restructure...how you hide the debt...what fancy buzzword you put in the kool-aid of the day...or what name you put on the face of the company to bandage the wounds. It’s time to rip off the bandaid and just let the wounds heal.
I apologize for that rant, but here is something for YOU...that worker bee that does still care. Stand tall. Don’t let the corporate storm cloud up your character and integrity. Get a Plan B...or Plan Z...update your resume and expand your network and your net-worth. Start hustling. You’ve all been beat up, but the bruises are only temporary. You have a special skillset and there is a special place just for you. Find your PURPOSE. Now let’s all look to the horizon ahead and leave this in the rear view mirror!!!
Godspeed!!!
For more behind the scenes info see:
The case is U.S. Bank (Aurelius) v. Windstream Services, 17-cv-07857, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York (Manhattan).