Negotiation Skills Company, Inc.
 
Negotiation Skills Company, Inc.

Title Image
Q & A Table of Contents

If You Don't Ask, They Won't Tell

From: Kathy, Pennsylvania

Question: There are only two of us left in my particular department of a Fortune 500 company, my supervisor and myself. I know she is actively seeking employment outside the company. I'm not sure what happens to me when she proves to be successful in her search. Do you have any suggestions that will help me in negotiating to retain a position with the company should they elect to eliminate my department when she leaves?

Response: Dear Kathy,

Thank you for your question.

Do you have a good enough relationship with your supervisor to go to her for advice? You don't necessarily need to say "I know you're looking for another job." It is perfectly appropriate to focus on your own interests in this situation: "The department is downsizing and I am curious about its future -- and my own future as well. . ."

You may want to talk with someone in human resources; they may be able to give you a definitive answer about the future of your department. The department may not have much of a future as such, but the question is whether its function(s) are important to the company. If the company needs your output, whether you're wearing the Department's hat or some other title, does that make much difference to you.

The important thing is: ask questions. Don't wait for things to happen to you. You may not be able to anticipate the future, but it makes sense to consider the possibilities, to learn about their likelihood, and to develop alternatives based on the likely changes that may occur.

Good luck.
Steve

The Negotiation Skills Company, Inc.   P O Box 172   Pride's Crossing, MA 01965, USA   
Voice: +1 978-927-6775     FAX: +1 978-921-4447
WEB: www.NegotiationSkills.com   E-mail: tnsc@negotiationskills.com
Designed by: Online Marketing Strategies