I have the feeling I’m going to lose my job today.

[ThomasShelbysfagend]

I’ve never been unemployed.
Had many jobs for over 40 years but always been in a job.
Things have been happening over recent months at my job that have made me paranoid and a gut feeling that something is about to happen. Not good.

Ive a meeting today so will know by the end of the day.

What the fuck do you do when “let go”?
Ive been scouring jobs on every jobs board there is and.. nothing. Nothing at all suitable anywhere.

I’ve got professional qualifications, I’m senior enough in my role, but there isn’t anything.

Tips from anyone who has been in this position are very welcome.

Your gut feeling was there for a reason! Despite what you have been told keep your options open as I reckon you have been sounded out - it's not over so stay alert. Similar position and my gut is screaming!

I was let go at the beginning of March. Whatever you do, make sure you get up and do something. I got up the next day and went and volunteered with the Lib Dems they needed help with the county elections. I also volunteered with school and pre-school. I also got on LinkedIn and followed up on job leads and signed up with recruiters. I started a new job two weeks ago. I was let go of my previous job because of mental health issues. I mentioned them to my new manager who said no problem just keep me in the loop. Let me know if you need anything. I could have kissed her. I’m also back working part time. I’m lucky to have landed on my feet. I hope that the same happens for you OP.

I feel for you. I had a meeting booked in for mid afternoon on a Tuesday and also felt it wasn't going to be good. I got told my temporary contract isn't being extended. Thankfully being paid to end of August but it doesn't solve the stress of having to start looking again. Everything near my is either very poorly paid or very specialist. Not sure whether to change direction completely.

Your biggest problem will be ageism (judging by your comment you’ve been working for 40 years). It’s the one form of discrimination that’s widely practiced and ignored.

Having said that, many older people have great networks (former colleagues, former employers, etc), and many jobs are got through contacts.

I’ve been made redundant twice in my career, in both cases got a nice payoff and a new job before my notice ran out, but that was when I was younger.

As the main wage earner in our house, considering the history of people just “going” within the company it is extremely difficult to “not worry unnecessarily “.
Gut feelings should not be dismissed or underestimated.

Thank you so much for this extraordinary kindness and wonderful offer.

The support and strength from one human being to another on this thread is so heartwarming, and it’s in multiple.

You are a lovely bunch x

I was in the same position 5 years ago. I 'downscaled' if that is a word, and took a job that paid 25% of my previous wage, but covers my bills easily and is totally stress free. I am GOLDEN in this job, as they have never had anyone so calmly competent that turns up on time, does the job, then goes home. No drama, no arguments, no accidents. I don't know if that suits your situation, but being too good for a position is sometimes appreciated. I spend half of my working day in the staff gym. Managers don't care, they know where I am.

Great relief @ThomasShelbysfagend and yes, sounds like a good idea to gently keep an eye on what is going on in the market. Good luck

So relieved for you! Wishing you all the best x

Be REALISTIC
> You probably will NOT get a job at Gucci - but maybe down the street ??

I can empathise with that feeling of dread. It is unlikely you will be fired if you have not previously been through a disciplinary process. Go to the meeting, say little and respond you'd like time to respond as the points they nake are new to you. Following the meeting find a lawyer for a free consultation

Talk to the most immediately available trade union rep ( THE NEAREST ONE YOU CAN GET HOLD OF QUICKLY ) ( your own union rep may take longer to respond or be in another area ) ... tell them the bare facts . . . . .
. Telephone the ACAS helpline and do the same - their advisors are extremely good .
( I seem to remember that no-one within a reasonable employer's jurisdiction can be dismissed quickly - it takes a minimum of 2-3 months unless it is gross misconduct )