© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.
My boss was fired a month ago & I'm just hearing from HR
Last month, my boss was laid off as my company was shaking up its management team. My current department is now a small team of three and we've been especially struggling ever since my boss was fired. Today, HR asked to "check in" with me to see how things were going without my boss. It's been a month and I was struggling (at least emotionally) the most right when it happened, and I feel like it's strange that no one from HR checked in with me back then.
Has anyone experienced something like this? I can't tell if it's my fault for not reaching out to HR earlier, but I was really overwhelmed and coping with the loss of my boss.
Jackie Ghedine
Coach for Gen X Women | Jack Russell of Humans
5.75k
08/19/20 at 10:36AM UTC
This is such a bummer and I can only imagine how difficult this time is, not having anyone steering your team's ship.
Do I think it's absurd that no one checked in with you since your boss was let go, yes! Is it normal, no! However, these are such abnormal times where HR teams have been stretched to the max (if there is much of one to begin with since many organizations are scaling back on the human in human resources) and finding it hard to keep their head above water.
What about your new manager, have you hear from him/her?
The greatest thing we can do for ourselves right now is pull from our inner selves and practice resilience. Nothing is going to look like it once did. If HR or management isn't able to support you the way you need right now, it's time to find a mentor, friend, coach that will be able to play that role. Not someone to complain and commiserate with but instead, someone who can work with you to make you stronger so you can handle the rough waters ahead. Good luck.
Laura McCannDriving results through people engagement
325
08/18/20 at 8:43PM UTC
Hi there! After your boss exited, who became your new boss? Did that person check in with you? As an HR professional, I hear feedback about HR, which I very much appreciate. However, I wonder, what would mean more to you? Having your new boss check in with you early to see how you are coping or having HR check in with you? Most people, in my experience, would rather have the new boss check in as opposed to HR.
I hope that you reach out to either your new boss or drive the conversation with HR if you are feeling overwhelmed.
Kathryn St PeterTalent Acquisition Leader
105
08/18/20 at 8:12PM UTC
I am sorry this happened to you but I agree with everyone, please give yourself and HR some grace. Everyone is navigating in these very uncertain times and most organizations are under supported and taking things day by day. Not to mention there may be underlying factors you may not be aware.
I definitely agree with the last suggestion of you and your colleagues reaching out to HR, expressing your value and align with the company's needs as best as possible. Keep up the great work you are doing. Managing a month without clear direction is impressive under any circumstances! Well done, you!
Anonymous
08/18/20 at 12:04AM UTC
I suspect that HR was preoccupied or waiting for guidance due to the larger management change.
As to what you should report now or should have reported at the time: While it's very understandable that you've been overwhelmed, it's hard to tell from your letter what HR is intending to scope out. Is the intent to bolster your department, to find you a new boss, to fold your team into another group, or to downsize your group due to cost-cutting needs?
Given the uncertainty, I'd suggest that you and your colleagues emphasize the high quality of your work and your continuing value to the company. You can also ask HR for insights as to how management sees your department operating longer-term in the wake of your boss's departure-- although HR might not have the answers.
Cara HouserCoaching + Digital Courses for High Impact Women
1.93k
08/17/20 at 10:23PM UTC
Sounds like HR isn't functioning in a highly efficient/productive manner right now but that you handled the situation and would have reached out if you'd thought it was useful at the time.
If you've collected some insights over the last month that you can share that might be good - especially if you now have the data you need to make a certain point or support a certain recommendation (not sure if this is relevant but if so it's an open door for dialogue). Wish you the best.
Jennifer, Full-Time Corporate Executive and Part-time Career Advancement CoachAdvance your career and pursue your best life
44
08/17/20 at 9:39PM UTC
It's unfortunate that situations like this are not uncommon. HR departments are overwhelmed right now which is slowing down their normal reaction to events such as layoffs. I don't think there is any fault - so take the pressure of yourself. I do think if you are feeling overwhelmed (or were) that you could have reached out to your new manager (assuming it's your boss' manager?) or HR for support. If you're doing okay now, then great. If you still want some support, then either should be in a position to help.
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.