When Knowing Too Much Can Create Doubt

I used to run a company – about 10 years ago. I worked for bazillion-aires as the CEO, but ended up the ‘doer’ whilst these big dreamers would endlessly throw out ideas.

It was exhausting. But I learned so much about leadership and expectations and limitations. I learned quickly how to hire and fire, become the CEO, COO, HR Director, Spokesperson, Event Director, and so on.

And so, 10 years later, it’s hard not to take a hard look at any action and expect that it’s all for good, even if it is legitimate.

You see, when you are making financial decisions, and cutting costs, suddenly human capital is the most expensive line item on a P&L (profit and loss) – and it’s hard not to make those tough decisions to cut a person over a printer or computer.

And the same goes for any associated expenses once that person is let go, i.e. collecting unemployment. I’ve seen, heard and been on both sides of how it could work for or against a company to pay out benefits. Just like any other Great Society programs and benefits, (medicare, social security, welfare) there are folks who have really earned and deserve every penny, and I suppose an argument is made for those who “take advantage”.

So, after filing myself, due to my position being eliminated, naturally I was skeptical when the HR manager came out of the woodwork to refer me to a corporate recruiter and give me a raving review. Um, didn’t you just fire me?

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