For one long-serving professional, life took an unexpected turn when the company he had dedicated 15 years to suddenly pushed him out. The organization had undergone multiple rebrands over the years and was in constant pursuit of funding, especially after the pandemic. Although there were moments of optimism, by July the inevitable truth surfaced—funding had dried up. Soon after, his manager was let go, and by mid-August, he too was asked to step down. Rather than being officially laid off, he was advised to resign, and by the end of August, he complied.
Years of Dedication with Limited Recognition
Throughout his 15-year tenure, he had rarely explored opportunities elsewhere, attending only a couple of interviews during that span. His decision to remain was driven by comfort, confidence in his skills, and the variety of challenges that kept him engaged. As a software engineer, he managed diverse responsibilities and consistently delivered results when entrusted with critical tasks. Yet recognition was scarce. While he endured this lack of appreciation for years, being asked to leave without acknowledgment left him deeply disheartened.
Facing the Job Market Again
Now back in the job hunt after more than a decade, he finds the search daunting. He has already submitted 60–70 applications, receiving only a handful of rejections that at least confirmed his profile was being noticed. The overwhelming silence from most employers, however, has been difficult to process.
Hard Lessons from Experience
Reflecting on his journey, he distilled several lessons that others might benefit from. Longevity in a company can be deceptive—no one is irreplaceable, and performance alone does not guarantee security. Comfort can easily turn into a trap, so it is crucial to seek growth elsewhere when stagnation sets in. Open communication with managers about the company’s direction, along with a willingness to embrace discomfort and try new things, is essential to remain relevant.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a career-ready mindset: interviewing periodically to gauge market value, updating resumes and LinkedIn profiles regularly, documenting professional achievements, and nurturing a strong network. Applying both to suitable and stretch roles builds resilience, while asking for feedback after interviews sharpens performance. Most importantly, he realized that work should not define identity, and effort should align with happiness and growth.
Holding On with Hope
Although opportunities have not yet materialized, he remains calm and focused. Stress occasionally strikes at night, but the support of his partner helps him regain balance. As he approaches his 40th birthday, he views this upheaval as the doorway to a fresh beginning.
Voices of Solidarity
Fellow Redditors expressed empathy, sharing similar struggles across industries. Some emphasized how tough the current year has been, while others encouraged him to lean on savings, network strategically, and trust that sometimes forced changes open the path to blessings in disguise.