Folks, take some advice from an older, experienced former FHEG associate. Yes I realize how major changes In Leadership followed by huge layoffs can create a depressing work place. But face it, Work is just that, WORK. The present leadership may very well be lacking, but leadership the past 15 years at Follett wasn't exactly stellar. The reality is the college bookstore business is an old, outdated business model regardless of which company is in this market. The rents to schools are too high and the decline in textbook sales which accounts for 80% of business spells disaster. The only solution for the owners is to unload the business to a foreign investor. There are multiple reasons to sell to a company outside the U.S. that I don't have time to go into. Sales in the next 3 years will drop by 30-45% in my estimation. So if you are close to retirement, stay positive for that special next step in your life. And if you are not close to retirement-- work on your résumé, stay positive, network with all that you know and you will find a brighter future. Misery loves company so step one is to stay away from negative people and be your own person. The Follett Company has a long track record of solid performance driven by solid employees. So if and when you leave--go out the door as one of those who helped build to the very end. I wish each and every one of you the very best and will say a prayer that you succeed regardless of the direction you take.
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Lmao, own it and now lets do the happy dance. Personally I'm just too tired from too many hours and constantly looking over my back.
You're the difference.
AS
As companies focused more on the bottom line, they began to refer to workers as "assets" and when times got tough, they looked at which "assets" to cut. "Do more with less," "Get rid of the fat," and "leaner and meaner" were the propaganda slogans that sent chills down workers' spines.
Older workers quickly read the writing on the wall: Those with higher salaries were led into the gas chambers first while corporate lawyers dangled "don't sue us if you hope to get a dime in severance" agreements in front of our stunned faces.
We signed. All of us did. I still question how this coerced agreement signed under duress was legal and not protested. Why didn't the ACLU jump in to protect workers from the slaughter? But everyone who could have done something about it instead turned deaf, dumb, and blind.
And the result is that what we are now left with is a workplace culture riddled with insecurity and restlessness. When people are afraid of losing their jobs, they strive to be compliant, not creative. Toeing the line has replaced pushing the envelope.
Nice try Follett family. "but leadership the past 15 years at Follett wasn't exactly stellar" "The only solution for the owners is to unload the business to a foreign investor. There are multiple reasons to sell to a company outside the U.S. that I don't have time to go into". You don't have time? Firstly most ethical companies offer buyouts when they wanted to reduced head count, not the current method, select and destroy to save on paying severance. (Bottom of the barrel tactics). Secondly questionable as to who has ownership with possible offshore purchase company excuse me another country buyer. Thirdly outside of the US contracts the company made would be hard to rectify so the institutions would be basically out of luck just like your employees. Fourth you are proving to be as unscrupulous as fore mentioned in previous posts.. Lastly your previous leadership was stellar.
Some of the most thoughtful words spoken on this site. It is so hard to stay upbeat knowing this is probably my last 'rush' at the store I love working at. However, keep strong, carry on.
Wise words well expressed. However, current management has targeted those within 15 years of retirement for elimination. Management has become hostile. They have become predatory. You're right, polish the resume, read up on interviewing, measure your skills and quantify your accomplishments. Understand what your contribution has been and know what you're offering your next employer. Expect to be paid less. Then, try to stay positive. Yes, I recognize that you worked hard and you're finally earning money close to what you've contributed. Management is taking that from you. However, stay positive. Cut your household budget. Make that car last a bit longer. You need to buy interview clothes, you don't need a car payment. Stay positive. Most of all, sorry no one in Chicago cares and no one on your campus cares, either. You cared and that made you special. Stay positive.