TRANSITIONING OUT IN RECESSION TIMES

The severe recessionary economy has led to creation of a variety of working arrangements as people consider every opportunity to keep working. Some recently laid off people find project work with their former full-time employer, providing a source of income and a way to keep involved, while the employer benefits from the services without having to increase  full-time headcount.

For individuals on the older end of the spectrum it is not exactly phased retirement, but it shares some of the characteristics. The individual is no longer a partner or executive in a senior position, but in addition to performing services directly may be transferring knowledge that otherwise would have been lost to the next generation.

While this has the potential for a win-win, the transition can be tricky, especially for the individual assuming the new, usually reduced, status. Expectations need to be clarified. The working agreement probably should be reveiwed by an employment lawyer for protection and clarification. Emotional discomfort through a readjustment period can be expected. Relationships with former colleagues are likely to change and the office politics may appear different. Others may resent that they didn't get the work.

In this situation, expect to have to prove yourself and the value of your work, especially if the responsibilities are different from the former ones. You need to show you are a team player and put in extra effort. But be careful not to feel you are taken advantage of (or let that happen).

On the positive side, these phasing out or project work arrangements can provide desirable flexibility to individuals who have worked intensely for many years. They enable a person to stay gainfully employed, still engaged in work that may be challenging and personally meaningful and connected to colleagues.

Can you share experiences from your own organization?

Phyllis Weiss Haserot   www.pdcounsel.com