Faster Than A Speeding Layoff

Once again, I dodged the bullet. Whether through cunning, talent, or just stupid blind luck, the dreaded "we'd like to see you in the office for a moment" invitation missed me.

I've been in the hobby gaming industry for several years and have witnessed a total of 5 layoffs. My current office just went through one, as we announced today. A couple of industry friends hopped on the phone looking for me, discovering that I was still right there, at my desk. The list of friends I know longer work with has grown, although not to the level of friends I miss from The Company (the last job I left after 3 rounds of deep cuts).

This was a bit of a pruning layoff. Jobs were consolidated, duties rearranged and so on. I was given my company's #1 product to lead forward. A big honor, to be sure, with a lot of responsibility. I have already come up with two completely insane plans, both of which have been green lit and are underway.

But work isn't the same. There's a bit of hollow regret when you walk in and most of the desks are empty. Our nerf wars and BSG league took a big hit and I rarely draw my gun. I've been working my industry contacts trying to find jobs for everyone that I can. I did that with friends from The Company and still do so. I don't know why but I think it helps with "survivor's guilt". I hope someday the favor is returned. The bullet won't miss me forever. :)