I will probably accept the voluntary separation package even though I have zero prospects right now. I just have a feeling our jobs are in such jeopardy that we better take the offer or face being let go with much less. It really hurts to feel that you have to leave a job that you’ve held for so long and face the prospect of being unemployed at an age where very few companies will even look at you. Very possible that I could lose my home and everything that I’ve worked so hard for for so many years. I haven’t slept well since that damned email showed up in my inbox. Very sad, very scared.
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You will survive. There are many opportunities outside of Ricoh. From what I experienced, Ricoh has not been a healthy place to work for over a decade so consider your transition a blessing. Ricoh's management does not know what to do. The biggest problem Ricoh has ahead of them, is people think they are next and stop working when the company announces a layoff is coming or in this case, a voluntary separation email blast.
I don't know why Ricoh seems to think that anyone today is ready to retire at 50, or 55, or whatever it is this time around. Who has been able to afford to do that in decades, other than union workers who get a mean pension?? I thought the standard today is 65. You can't even collect social security in your 50's. Most likely, those forced to retire will just end up taking a job elsewhere or being Walmart greeters till they are 80. :(
Thank you and good luck to you!
I am not old enough to get the package. But having been with Ricoh for decades, I would have seriously considered the package if offered. In the group I work with, half of the employees got the letter. It's not going to be easy after all this settles for the ones left. I have been considering as well of leaving the company. Like you I am deeply concerned about the future here. I wish you the best and hope you find something soon.