Pamela Johnson Video (Windows Media)
July 17, 2008 - My name is Pamela Johnson and I have been with King County for 19 years. I currently work for the Department of Natural Resources and Parks, Water and Land Resources Division as a Human Resources (HR) Service Delivery Manager I. I am responsible for coordinating and implementing the layoff process for the Division. In doing so, I am often reminded of a time prior to working in Human Resources, when I received a layoff notice. Years ago, I worked in this Division as a Program Analyst - Contract Administration. I was informed one year that my position would be eliminated at the end of that year. I was shocked, and couldn’t believe it was happening to me! I definitely had a few "why me" moments as I wondered how I was going to make ends meet without a job. After going through a range of emotions, I accepted what was happening and started to plan for the future. One thing that I truly appreciated as a layoff candidate was early notification from my Division. It was a critical piece that allowed me time to process the news and then to utilize available resources. I was separated from the County for about four months; came back to work as a temporary employee, and then went through a competitive process to start my HR career. In my current position as a HR Service Delivery Manager, I work closely with Division Management in preparation of upcoming layoffs. We provide resources to help employees with the necessary skills and information they need to successfully deal with the challenges and stress of workplace change and finding new jobs and careers. I also work closely with Theresa Roscoe and her staff in Career Support Services. They assist employees with referral and placement services, skill assessments and resume writing. The layoff process is very stressful and in my opinion, the more time that is allowed to work directly with layoff candidates, the more time they will have to plan for their future. Deborah Brockway Video (Windows Media) - What were your initial thoughts when you found out about your layoff?
At first I was disappointed as I truly enjoyed the work I was doing in DNRP. Luckily, I was focused and determined to move ahead and with the help of the County’s Referral and Placement Program and the direction they provided me I was able to not only achieve my goal, but land a dream position that had all the elements of what I wanted. - How did the King County Referral and Placement Program assist you?
They worked with me to determine my skill level then began looking at County positions that best correlated with my skills and background. They kept me apprised and updated all along the way and that helped tremendously in keeping me informed and calm. - If you were in a layoff situation again, what recommendations would you make for doing things differently?
I was very satisfied with the process I went through and felt I was given excellent help in getting to where I never imagined I would end up. - What tips would you offer to other employees who may deal with a layoff situation in the future?
I view the world as a continual learning experience. You may look at something as a negative, but in the end it turns out to be the best thing that ever happened to you. I would say look at a layoff situation as a blessing in disguise. It will lead you where you need to be. I would say work with the Referral and Placement Program team and do the required work they assign to help in the preparation for your job search. It all plays a role in getting to the end result you are looking for. Be diligent about keeping organized and timely in your response to their requests. It takes a little work, but in the end it will all work in your favor and you will feel good about the effort you put into it. - What additional information or comments would you like to share?
I appreciated all the help I was given in my search for a position that in King County doesn’t come along all the time. I was more than lucky; I had much to be grateful for. The more I think about it, the more I truly recognize that this job was a gift. How often do you get layed off and end up right where you have always wanted to be.
Dustin Frederick Video (Windows Media) 
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