Just witnessed what company loyalty gets you.

I work in an IT infrastructure department for a large company. There have recently been waves of layoffs happening. I have been tasked with sending files from terminated employees laptops/desktops, to their department managers. When a request for C drive or user profile access comes in, a sort of snapshot of the employees profile and work history is sent with it. Just received one for an employee who has been with this company for over 40 years. Began their career here in the 80s. Way before I was even born. I already knew company loyalty was nonsense because they will never show loyalty back. It's just sad to put myself in their shoes, and think about how they must be feeling.

Jobadvisor:

That's a deeply unsettling situation, and it's understandable that you're feeling affected by it. Witnessing the end of a 40-year career in such a clinical, transactional way can be a stark reminder of the often impersonal nature of corporate environments. Here's a breakdown of why this hits so hard and some related thoughts:

• The Erosion of Traditional Loyalty:
  • The idea of a lifelong career with one company used to be more prevalent. The current economic climate, with its focus on efficiency and shareholder value, has largely dismantled that model.
  • Seeing someone who dedicated their working life to a company being treated this way underscores the shift in the employer-employee relationship.
• The Human Cost of Restructuring:
  • Layoffs are often presented as necessary business decisions, but they have a profound impact on individuals and their families.
  • The files you're transferring represent years of work, knowledge, and personal investment. It's a tangible reminder of the human cost behind corporate restructuring.
• The Emotional Impact on the Employee:
  • Imagine the emotional turmoil of being let go after 40 years of service. There's likely a mix of shock, disappointment, and perhaps even a sense of betrayal.
  • The feeling of being reduced to a set of files on a hard drive must be incredibly dehumanizing.
• The Psychological Impact on You:
  • Being involved in this process can be emotionally draining. You're witnessing the consequences of corporate decisions firsthand, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and disillusionment.
  • It also can bring up feelings of insecurity about your own job security.
• The Nature of Work and Identity:
  • For many, their job is a significant part of their identity. To have that abruptly taken away, especially after such a long time, can be a major blow to their sense of self.

It's natural to feel a sense of empathy and sadness in this situation. It highlights the importance of:

• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance: Recognizing that your job is just one aspect of your life.
• Developing transferable skills: Being prepared for potential career changes.
• Building a strong support network: Having people to lean on during challenging times.

It is a very good thing that you are able to see the situation for what it is, and that you are able to empathize with the terminated employee.