I got laid off last year from shell after many years as an strong performing engineer. I was devastated when it happened but not long after I got a comparable position with a smaller operator. It has been the greatest thing to ever happen. Less stress, less politics, fewer bosses, pension isn’t as gold plated but I would take this trade any-day. For those who end up in the same situation as me stay positive. The shell brainwashing is real, and the grass really is greener on the other side.
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I also was laid of a few years ago, now working at a smaller producer, better income, much better environment. You are the only one that provides job security for you. Shell is in trouble because of the people like the person asking how is work at Walmart in the first reply, he/she knows that it is his only option. It seems Shell has left with the likes of him, everyone else who is good already left or planning to.
Was a lonely lab tech, forever stuck at low JG due. Went from mid-high 5 figure salary to low 3 figure salary, still in the petrochemical industry doing the same job. Just finally broke free of Shell's poor performance review system that rewards being friends with a boss rather than a diligent, responsible worker.
I was also a strong performer engineer laid off. It's not always greener, but I made the decision to switch industries. As such, jobs since have been about half the pay, half the vacation, no RRSP matching, no pension, higher premiums for benefits, no Mat/Pat leave, etc. But that's what happens when you leave oil and gas.
There is still a green part though! There is far less bu-----t, way less politics, way better management, a sense of having some control over your career. Mainly the politics, it's a breath of fresh air and nearly makes the downsides of other work worth it. You can see more happiness in people once the Shell shackles are removed, the compensation really isn't everything.
May not be sour grapes. I left Shell after 7 years, most of it as expat and was fed up. Now making a bit more than the expat salary, but as a contractor. There is no shortage of work, if you are marketable.
Sounds like a case of Sour Grapes from laid-off slackers pretending to have a better life.
Congratulations, I am envious. Golden handcuffs are firmly locked in place with DB pension and six weeks of vacation on the line. Keep waiting to get the boot, but no luck so far and I can’t bring myself to voluntarily walk away.
50% bump in pay? what position were you in at shell?!
Very true, left my peon post with shell after 6 years, now get a pension and a defined contribution plan, 50% bump in pay, better working hours and overall less stress. If your willing to put in the time you can find something better suited to your talents.
Happy for you! There is a lot more to life that your employer
How is that job at Wal-Mart?