Life goes in craZy ways
Feb 5th 2005MichaelGeek Stuff
Back in 2002 I was released from the company I worked at for almost five years. This is in part because of the economy after 9/11, and in part because I had a very large issue with the president of the company. I was leading an office and building out a 20,000 square foot facility for hosting large corporate back end systems (SAP, Oracle, e-commerce, etc…) I was responsible for the project while the rest of the company was on the east coast. Shortly after opening the facility and closing two major accounts I was released for personality conflicts and a lack of leadership (the president) and the state of the economy.
While I was let go in some very hard times work was easy to find, I dug ditches (really) and did some odd technical consulting jobs here and there and was not taking any unemployment. I moved to Chicago for a position that did not workout over the summer for five months. I then moved back to Colorado last September.
My old company was acquired last year and recently the president was terminated with more respect than he deserved. I have been approached on the topic of coming back and relocating back to Phoenix. I really loved the job of designing, developing, selling, and delivering business solutions to companies across the country. It was never a dull moment.
I was based in Yuma for years while I was in the Corps and have several friends living in Phoenix still. I do like Arizona but also love Colorado.
I hate making big decisions…there have been to many of them lately…
Life goes in craZy ways.
With the current company and a lot of very large changes coming our way (lots of unknowns) would you stay or would you work for a smaller company where the work is a known and the possible impact on the growth might be huge. What would you do and why? I am just trying to vent my thoughts to help me make my decision better and I like many points of view.
3 Comments »
3 Responses to “Life goes in craZy ways”
Raven on 05 Feb 2005 at 20:40 #
Wow, tough decisions to make. It sounds like you were really happy with the old company, minus the dingbat president (he was most likely a liberal);)
I would go back. The place you work at now-are you happy? Do you see yourself working there 5 years from now? The place you worked at before: Can you see yourself there in 5 years? CO isn’t that far from Arizona so you could visit any friends you have now.And maybe you would get to travel to my end of the woods (East Coast). I work for a big non profit healthcare facilty, but my direct working area is small. I like a close knit enviroment. I don’t like big cold companies. You have to think about that-the culture and all that garbage. Smaller employers tend to have staff who get along better. ask yourself: What do I stand to lose by staying where I am; and going back.
Just some quick thoughts for now…
John McCrarey on 05 Feb 2005 at 23:00 #
Hmmm, if it was just a quality of life decision, I would prefer Colorado to Phoenix, but Phoenix is certainly not bad by any means.
Going back to your old company would be vindication for the previous termination, and there is something sweet about that. And it sounds like you loved the work. So, if it is for more more money and I would derive more professional satisfaction for the work, I’d probably make the move.
The most important thing is to not look back in regret whatever you decide. Do what your gut tells you and then move on down that road. Whichever path you take will lead you to whatever you make of it. We DO have control over our outlook on life, and that is the key to success and happiness.
Good luck to you!
David Flanagan on 07 Feb 2005 at 08:15 #
Mike,
My current company is going through tons of changes right now. As a matter of fact, today they just implemented one of the largest reorgs in the company’s history.
There were a few people who were let go, but the vast majority of employees will remain, just within newly redefined areas. My response to changes like this has generally been to ask, “what opportunities do I see in all this change?”
Are there opportunities for more money? More responsibility? Both? Is there an opportunity for professional growth? For me, mentoring by a senior-level professional, and the opportunity to become part of a strong team are as good as money, because, in the working world, it’s both what you know and who you know, not one or the other.
So, if the company in Arizona can offer you those things, and perhaps a signing bonus? Then I would strongly consider it over a smaller company.
Small companies have great opportunities, but might be less able to offer the kind of development that will one day help you to grow your own professional skills.
For now I’m sticking with my current company, but I can tell you that I was approached recently by another large company and though our initial discussion did not show my skills to be a match for the position they were seeking, they are still interested in me for another position.
If the stars and moons align (money, benefits, growth/development opportunities, good team, etc.) then I may wind up going over. I’m taking the approach that I can afford to do this at my pace, continue to grow my skills and value at my current company, and let things fall together properly before ever moving.
I do believe the economy will continue to improve this year and good people, such as yourself, will be even more difficult to find than ever. So, if this is something you want, time might just play in your favor.
Your old company might not be able to wait too long, but if they thought you were interested but not yet sold, then they SHOULD (if they really want you) come to you with firm incentives to bring you back.
Really, make them approach you and I would say, they had better put something on the table as incentive. When they do, counter them with a bit more, and see what happens.
Sorry that I’ve ramble a bit. Hope this is helpful. If you ever want to contact me directly, I’d be happy to speak with you more over the phone or via email - david@viewpointjournal.com or dpflanagan@gmail.com.
Thanks,
David