Layoff Sign: Boss’s Cold Shoulder

When you’re in good standing at your firm, it usually isn’t hard to tell. But when you’re a target for layoff, or feelings about your participation have changed, the signs are often subtle. The Wall Street Journal reports this week that there are at least three clues. And when employers are laying more people off than any time since 9/11, reading the cues to your fate is especially important now:

Warning Sign #1. Non-verbal clues or passive-aggressive behavior. If you’re in good standing with your boss, you should be having frequent talks. But many managers resort to non-verbal clues or passive-aggressive behavior rather than confronting employees directly if they’ve got bad news or are dissatisfied with performance.

Warning Sign #2. A change in your boss’ interaction with you. Changes in the way you’re treated can be a signal that your job is in danger. For example, if your boss used to respond to your emails in the same day, but it now takes a week, consider it a sign.

Warning Sign #3. A change in how projects are assigned. Pay attention to how projects are doled out can give you a feeling for where you fit in. Are you being passed over on plum projects? If you’re repeatedly overlooked for high-profile assignments that you feel capable of handling, it might be a sign that management is preparing for your dismissal.