I got laid off today after years of faithful service to this sh–show of a company. I’m trying to hold off all the ill feelings and resentment that I have towards the company, but instead ask what could be the best movie now that I lost my job. Is It even worth applying at other companies in the business? Is there even room for a 48 year old in this industry?
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I am around the same age as you and I was part of the November wave and felt like I got punched in the gut. Looking back now i see a lot of red flags that I ignored, one being Steve Nelson retiring early. I was getting Bravos left and right up until my official last day. It left me doubting myself and my accomplishments. I was taking it personally. As I learned who else I knew and/or knew of that were also part of that wave, it finally hit me that it's all a numbers game to UHC. I didn't allow myself to wallow, I immediately spent my time networking, updating my LinkedIn and researching organizations that I wanted to work for. I still applied for internal positions. There is no good time to be laid off but during the holidays made it more challenging. Luckily I had a lot of traction and interviews. This forced me to really look at myself, my skillset and self worth. I was lucky to find an amazing role with a competitor. It is a higher job grade, with an amazing salary and excellent bonus structure. There is hope. My biggest advice is to take advantage of Lee Hecht Harris. I had an amazing job coach and branding counselor. Stay as positive as possible. I don't know what your background is but besides competitors I also looked at other organizations related to healthcare i.e. healthcare technology, etc
Good Luck!!!
I know of a few people who went to competitors but at a lower level, at least in title. IMO look for something outside of health insurance. The political / Gov issues will be ongoing until a public option is available. Even if Trump is re-elected it will just keep coming up in every platform for every election and healthcare bill in the future. It will come eventually and who knows what UHG will do to survive prior and afterwards. I would look at non healthcare insurers and more consulting companies. Other than O&G and Brick and Mortar Retail, no industry has as much uncertainty as this one.
Several good people we let go today (and late, last year). For anyone out there that has been stressing-out these past, few months...find another job.
More HR or Management trolls on this site. Get back to work and stop being an a–hole.
Fun with D–k and Jane
I have been looking since Oct lay-off... I have 15 yrs experience at United in most areas and legal and reg yet every place seems to require a 4 yr for anything with my skill set :( I have a two year but I can’t even get past the initial screen bc no 4 yr
Medicare 4 All!!
Healthcare is the fastest growing industry in the country, health insurance is the volatile part of healthcare. Find a hospital or large practice that can use your expertise and vast experience.
I think those who work for healthcare providers are safe. Insurance companies are a c-apshoot.
Great people were let go today. A lot of companies are hiring. Coming from United looks good. The employees are driven and work hard. 48 comes with experience not age!
Yes I agree get out of the Healthcare industry. I was laid off in 2019 after decades of service. UHG will burn in hell. I hope this ends up being the best thing that has happened to you. Apply for unemployment ASAP.
I’m in the same boat today and it does s—. I’ve spent two decades with them. Honestly, I’m looking at other industries at this point. I just don’t think healthcare is safe anymore.