Q: We are all shocked, our boss was let go. Am I next?
A: An array of questions come to mind when I read your question:
- Is your boss still on the job and in the process of transitioning out? If yes, you have an opportunity to have a lot of your questions answered, especially if you organize a “going away” lunch.
- What is the organizational climate of your firm? Downsizing? Right-sizing? Consolidating functions? Trimming the “fat?” Reducing cost?
- What are the competitive forces impacting your industry? Is your business competitive?
- Is your boss viewed as a leader of change or “old guard?”
Regarding your future:
- Are you meeting (and/or) exceeding expectations?
- Is your business unit meeting (and/or) exceeding metrics?
- Is the work that you do relevant to the current conditions and to the future direction?
- What’s likely to happen next?
- What steps have you taken to prepare?
- Do you agree with where your firm is going and do you know how you can contribute?
Note: When managers leave abruptly it often sends shock waves through the firm and leaves questions unanswered. In situations like this you may never know the whole story. Don’t waste time digging for the “truth;” focus on the contribution your manager made to you, your team and the firm. If, on the other hand, your manager is transitioning and on site, view it as a gift: you have a unique line of sight into the courageous or timely decision your manager has made to move on and possibly begin a new chapter.