Capital Group Companies (CG)

I am a CG Associate and it is very clear to me you have no insight to my beloved company.  "CG, after all, was a place known where you'd "park yourself" once you got hired.  It was a paternal organizational culture that demanded obedience in exchange for financial security."  Yeah that is why we ranked #1 two years in a row for being the best IT place to work.  
Thank you for the warm wishes.  

Let me jump in.

Well, it depends on what defines "best place to work".  I've been there honey.  The carpool van rolls into the Irvine parking lot at 4:55pm like clockwork.  From a CG "Associate" perspective, it's a great place to work because not much is expected of you.  You come in, clock time, and leave to go back home to take care of the kids.

CG has some good things, don't get me wrong.  The coffee is decent.  it's clean.  You have predictable hours.  The conference rooms are well equipped. 

But it's not a place for anyone looking to do anything innovative or cutting edge.  Nor is it a place that promotes individuality.  You've probably heard the term "Stepford Wives" and that defines the CG culture.  

Like I said, if all a person wants is a decent benefit package without working too hard, it's hard to top CG.  But from purely a technical perspective, it's not all that.  And you can't deny that promotions are difficult to get.  I personally know of a few people that have had the same title/role for *years*.  

It really all depends on how to quantify what is important and thus what makes the company a great place to work.  Point to Computerworld rankings all you want, but until you attempt to sit down at a TopCoder competition, or interview at Google over on Jamboree and realize that you don't have the chops to compete in the real world...well, only then will you "get it".  

My .02.  

Is this the only place on the net to discuss CG?  Why is this company so secretive?  Why isn't there more info about them and what it's like on this inside?

The reason there is no talk about CG on the web is because there is no one complaining about it.

80/20 of the web is complaining.  There's your answer.

As far as the Top Coder up there goes, yeah, there are other places for the scientists to work.  No one said it was CG.  Every place has their goods and bads.

Perhaps some people are done with the midnights and are ready for some reality.  There are some of us here at CG that will make it through this because we are busy, maintain our skills, and perform.

omg...did this fool just say that a TopCoder contestant is a scientist?

Wake up "associate"...a TopCoder has real skills.  Sit next to me.  Take me on.  

Otherwise, shut yer yap and keep using your "approved software" to try and maintain your lame corporate apps.

Ease up peeps...can't we all just get along?

Anyway, it's Friday and still no word from our inside sources.  Maybe they got laid off and are embarrassed.  haha. 

Soon as I hear something I'm singing like a canary.

No layoffs today but they are coming.  Still tons of work and approved projects in most areas of CG so they will need to be careful to not impact their qaulity of service and compliance efforts that have been underway this year.

Well I hate to be the bearer of bad new folk but the Cap Group is in big trouble.  This week alone scores of people have been let go.  These cuts will continue well into the second quarter.   I have been working for them since the mid 90's and I have never seen upper management so scared.  Having lost well over half their assets last year through not only the economic crisis but mismanagement and big bonuses for management.  We are talking well over 750 billion dollars being lost.  That’s over half of the assets CG had.  They are finding out that most of their high paid managers and senior managers are not worth their salt.  You have a lot of managers who are retired military.  These guys come in and take over an office and shoot the shit with their buddies which they have brought in with them.  They also like to promote people who kiss their a*** so just like any other company the top gets really fat and then when times get tough they let all the real workers go so they can keep their high paying jobs.  I know several supervisors that barely managed to get out of high school who were brought in to do absolutely nothing but kiss some managers butt.  Times are changing and unless CG wants to go the way of AIG or Enron they need to clean out these dead beat they have been hiring on the last ten years and hire some real people who don't play games and can spot an a** kisser from a mile away and kick them out on their cans.  I personally know at least a dozen good people who have been let go to cut cost because they were not in one of the CG clics.  If you really think that this is one of the top places to work then you have been severely brain washed.  They treat people like slaves and expect loyalty and give very little in return.  When push comes to shove the fat cats will look after themselves and their flunkies first.  There’s no doubt about, CG is headed down the crapper and that’s a real shame because once it was one of the better companies to work for.

it will be interesting to see how the culture will be after the cuts happen. i always viewed people as being real helpful and willing to share their knowledge (a big plus that defines our existing culture), but i can see people keeping things to themselves (as i have seen in my past lives) to protect themselves.

Clifford,

I too would like to see how the culture changes.  This could actually be a good thing.  Heads need to roll big time to wake that place up.  It's a morgue.  It's full of zombies.  People don't care about anything other than heading home at 5pm.  In IT, nothing gets done.  

I had the pleasure to see with my own eyes, some 40+ year old guy come down from "The Architecture Group', trying to tell us how to develop software using RUP.   He gave a big presentation.  Tried to look important.  He needs to be laid off.  He adds no value.   Tell that old man to find a job at Northrop Grumman or Raytheon.  The only people who should be running around CG telling other people how to develop software are:

1. probably under 30
2. don't work at CG
3. are not religious about RUP or any other methodology
4. can code...now, not 20 years ago on a VAX

And get rid of that girl in HR that talks like a robotic politician (rhymes with "him who?").  Talk about frigid.  She's not human and she's not a resource.

Ok.  Seeing that there is very few who actually "used" to work at CG and what the environment is about... you can be a useless stapler and be happy at CG... no expectations... well, nothing that raises the bar to be exceptional or do some "actual" work... also, being #1 in some magazine that most people don't hear of is BS.. since you can pay them off or they put people who receive those nice bonus checks or like the 'CG Associate' above who drinks his 'kool-aid' on command... to do the survey... the company is secretive cause its run by women who emasculate the men that get hired... its basically a socialist culture with a nazi underground... all well hidden within sight... no one dare speak up... not if you want to survive.. passive aggressive could describe the culture well.. in 2 words or less... the place is great if you want to do automaton work and get a nice retirement... let's not even talk about HR... another ball-game.. what company takes 3-9 months to hire someone?... even the CIA has a better track record, i would assume... you get an anal probe before you get hired anyway with the finger being inserted at every entrance possible... rude awakenings beckon... 

jagoff...nice pun btw.   :-)

In CG Associate's defense, Computerworld is a pretty well known publication and not some off the wall never-heard-of niche trade rag.  I don't know the criteria they used, but as a magazine/trade pub, they're legit.

That said, one thing they probably didn't ask was "how do you like being referred to as a set of initials?"  When I worked there, that was the first thing I noticed that threw me off guard.  Like the military does in boot camp, they try to take away the idea of being an individual.  It's subtle, yet not so subtle.  I know it goes back to the founders and how they used to do things, so it's embedded in their historical culture.  

But slavery was a part of our culture as well, as Americans, and clearly that needed to change.

So when Joe Smoo (another pun?) calls out Grace up above by her company imposed initials of GYYB, well that speaks volumes. It also speaks volumes to how their contractors are identified.  I can't speak to how all other companies do it, other than a different colored badge.  

CG is different.  I have never worked at a place that so clearly segregated their contractors.  At CG, you're *clearly* identified as a contractor by your company imposed initials.  You're CON[something].  It's clear in emails and meeting invites that, to the contractor, you're "not one of them". This, however, is well within CG's right to do so.   

One thing I didn't know was about the comment you made that it's run by women.  Normally, I would think that this doesn't matter.  Men can fail just as "well" as women (see the car companies for a good example of this). I'm curious where you got this info or how you know it to be true.  I did see a lot of women there, particularly in IT and looking back, given that it was IT, it does now come across as strange.  

Now, we can think that either CG somehow has the rare ability to attract top quality female talent, or they just bring women in for purposes of affirmative action.  If I see a Google female software engineer or DBA, I'm thinking she's good. Period.  Probably the same for Microsoft or Facebook.

My personal experience with female IT talent at CG says it's all about affirmative action. But that's just a personal observation.     

Robert: the pun was intended ;-)

Affirmative action?  You have got to be kidding me, right?  CG is like eHarmony with more women than men, except these women wear the pants in that family.

On the "CON" factor, yup, that's a positive, at least you know the 'kool-aid' doesn't fill your cup.

New at CG:  You need an eye-opener, unless you have one eye shut, but then, you are in a group with no initiatives or lights they flashed in HR during your interview process has blinded you.

Jeff: No reason to assault the blind ;-)

Redeemer: Start singing pal, we need some activity on this thing.

Been there: Quality of Service??  ok, now i know you have actually "BEEN THERE" a LONG time... how's that MRP doing?

The Saint maybe on the right track... but you need more than Clorox to clean that place up... What did those mob guys use to get rid of that guys body in NY?  Was it acid?

Evolution: Good one on the HR girl... See.. HR runs that place... you sneeze they know... that's why when you get hired, you are "screened"... they should go work for the TSA... we would have less problems... some people were asked about their "reviews" from 5 or 6 years back in the "previous" jobs... if there is anyone that keeps copies of their reviews from 5 years back, please send me a copy, I need to use them.. only the good ones please... as for the RUP guy, he' ok.. ust doing his job.. like all the automatons there... and there a few who do LIKE 'RUP'... they seem to swear by it... good for the old folk...  

Joe Smoo: Sounds personal dude... well, GYYB is not the only one who is like that.. there are a few others I'd like to throw out including one named 'Libby"... and pet 'Dipti'...

ell... hope there are others who have not ben emasculated who can join this fray... and add some humor to it... 

I <3 CG... it pays the bills and I make bank!

Calling out Grace like that... You're the ass.

10 Sr Mgrs gone yesterday, several dozen laid off.. Opac, pim, cart, tps,techarch, bsa coe, ars... and many more groups affected

I heard it was a small number.  About 150.  If so, it's not that bad of a layoff.

PA-LEASE:  You show the true caliber of a CG associate.

Yep,how very true....the layoffs intended only to keep the fat cats and their ass lickers with the current huge paychecks....
Been saying for the long time the management is most incompetent I have seen ever and the only people to jump up the ladder are the ones keeping quiet and doing proper asslicking.
My only condolences to the actual good people that are left there to pick the pieces of their overdue projects all on their own...
What company assigns newbies desktop support to be project leaders and then wonder why the projects taking years to complete in best of times.

You guys should be happy.  If it's only 150 or so, then that was nothing.  

Ok, the culture won't change, but at least you have a job till the layoff storm passes.  It *will* get better.  It always does.  

But judging from some of the comments here, it's going to be a long winter/spring with a lot of unhappy folks trapped in politically correct femenist hell.

:-)

A few of you should protest and (gasp) go into work with sneakers.  lol.

Or setup some meetings and invite people by name and not those stupid initials.  

Raise hell.  haha.

Phart:  no more gas please... is starting to smell of bs...

Redeemer: how about some true stories?  that is, IF you were actually at CG...

PA-LEASE:  Let's not get your panties in a bunch... does that happen too much?  i thought you are in a stress-free environment?... or is that all for show? or HR lies?  whatever it is.. take deep breaths and swallow your tongue... 

Any of you CG-iites (sounds like shiite) know if your HR department got cut? or is that a protected group? like the American Indians?  Maybe they "bunkered" down... more posts please... 

Yes that's right, I am an ass.  Better an ass then a go along get along mindless slackass like most of the other IT morons who are so afraid to have an original thought they won't even suggest any real change.  Half of the IT management shouldn't even be in IT.  They came over from AFS.  Got their jobs by reading a few tech mags and bullshitted their way in to management positions. Then bring their over their ass kissing buds to fill up positions they are not qualified to do.  Personal is when you have been lied to over the years by managers.  Who don't have the guts to tell you when they are going to stab you in the back.  That's the CG way.

Afro Samurai enters the room and the unruly fall silent.  In one quick motion he removes his sword and Joe Smoo's head for all to see.  It is a lesson intended to show all the peril of excercising bad net etiquette.  The samurai shouts:

[Samuel L. Jackson voice] Like every company CG has room to grow.  And yes some people were let go.  To those of you who remain, will you help make the company better or will we all just bellyache.  Don't be like Joe Smoo now who was full of vitriol and spite.  Now he lies in this internet forum with his head cut off. [/Samuel L. Jackson voice]

Samurai puts his sword away and buys a round of drinks for the assembled crowd before he exits.  One of the slighted IT guys kicks J. Smoos head into a dusty corner - Michael Phelps starts to giggle ....

Looks like another slackass nothing strikes again.  

Joe Smoo:  Kudos buddy... on the money AGAIN!

Afro Samurai?:  Ok, the name.. another story... you must be watching a lot of movies on company time... see, he must be nearing retirement... i guess the dead wood was not really weeded out of CG with those layoffs... most of the great unwashed remain... Afro, are you part of the "protected group"?... Is this an affirmative action rule at CG... keep the ones that don't do much.. we SHALL be unproductive... 

Mr. Smoo and Mr. Jag***,

You're both overgeneralizing, showing exceptional levels prejudicial bias, and making wild assumptions based on no or very few facts (at least you're not providing any).

I'm only going to write this once- if you're going to survive anywhere in corporate America, you're going to have to lose these nasty habits fast...

..and I don't care if you believe it or not.  

If your posts here are any indication, at the end of the day, it's YOU that's going to have to deal with the career consequences of your faulty assumptions, poor judgment, and lack of character.

But for right now, at least show some decency and restraint in your posts if maturity isn't in your repertiore.  

They have a right to voice their opinions.  They may have some legit complaints.  And knowing how CG is they are prob afraid they will get bumped off if they bring them up to HR.  Can you imagine if someone had spoke up about Madoff and someone actually listened to them.

The samurai saunters in and sees Jag*** talking to the headless corpse of the poor soul formerly know as Smoo.  He quietly walks by and makes a beeline for The Saint.  He quietly whispers in The Saint's ear ... "Harry Markopolous raised concerns to the SEC on several occasions since 1999.  The SEC investigated but found no apparent wrongdoing".

The samurai surveys the room again - Jag*** is still ranting to the headless corpse.  The samurai realizes that he will not sway anyone else's opinion or behavior.  He is tempted to re-enact his previous actions "Lucy Liu - Yakuza" style but vows to pray for the souls of Jag*** and his recently departed friend Smoo instead.

"And knowing how CG is they are prob afraid they will get bumped off if they bring them up to HR."

haha.

That's funny, but there's probably a bit of truth in that.  That's a creepy company.  I'm too young to have seen the Stepford Wives, but I did see The Firm and CG is just like that law firm.  Do what you're told and everything is ok.  Try to be different and...

At the very least, it serves the H1-Bs well.  They love that environment.  Now just think, for all of our unemployed friends in Orange County, are you seriously telling me that there are no local Americans capable of taking those jobs that CG has to reach out to indians?  

It's always been about the butt kissing at CG.  And let's talk about why they don't drug test.  Most of those in LA are still smoking pot (yes they are 50+ and many are gay!)  It is all about drinking the kool-aid and being a Stepford Wife.  Don't buck the trend and you will go far.  Piss off your gay male manager and you are doomed!

I started a topic over in the Company Culture area in case you guys wanna move the party over there.  Since this place doesn't seem to allow clickable links, I put the link in the website field.

Or use this:  http://www.twilightpad.com/messageBoardPost.html?messageBoardPostId=2036

Hey admin...you might wanna allow clickable links and consider moving some of the comments to the new post.  

Trying to make valid points is one thing.  Generalizing or insinuating negative tones towards sexual preference, gender or  age just shows your low character.  Those of you demeaning the technical qualifications of people at CG... since you people are so obviously superior, just go land another job somewhere else and be done with your snickering here.  It also shows extremely poor taste to call out someone on the internet while hiding behind an anonymous wall.

What about hiding behind your position to do and say what you want to whom ever you want?  That's not poor taste thats just power.  Seem like the power here has gone to a lot of drunk heads.

klaatu: looks like you have taken umbrage... perhaps a smooch on your @$$ is needed to correct the situation?... surviving in corporate America does not involve being an automaton and your nose hidden in someone's rear... initiative and hard-work seems to provide huge success... and it HAS been proven... unless you are completely engulfed by someone's plonker... we are sure you have plenty of facts to back our claims here... unless IQ erosion has occured... speaking of maturity, we respect your age and please retire... 

Afro:  Rudy in the rear ranks with the rusty rifle... please stay there... 

In general.. we should stick to coporate culture and the erosion of intelligence when you work at CG... no personal attacks on sexual preference or ethnicity necessary... 

Now that the company is facing its own problems, their true colors are surfacing...  That is the CG Associates way for you...

Many of the associates in CG used their and needed their title's to measure their worth or worthlessness.
But didn't do much to prove their value for the company.

You guys are hilarious.  Not only have you exaggerated issues inherent in any large workplace environment, but you've managed to completely exculpate yourself for all of your personal failures!  If you were only so creative and effective at work, maybe you'd still be here!

Great Guy: Disgruntled geeks?  sounds like you are a comfortable automaton... some of us actually like to USE our brains and not be a 9 to 5 booby... perhaps you are the one with the plonker and has someone buried in it?... or perhaps you would LIKE to be a geek? .. reason for "exculpating yourself"?... for someone who has only worked at ONE place like CG you would not last at any other place.. IF you EVER decide to actually DO some work elsewhere in the REAL world... an honest day's work is not the motto at your place of slumber... you are there for the $$$.. and not work.. admit it and move on... all good things do come to an end... nothing is exaggerated until you stop drinking the kool-aid and getting that MRP...

Dear,these layoffs had nothing to do with performance of associates.
Nothing,nada,ziltch.
If you would actually be part of it,and not just asslicking you would know that the managers of those group had no knowledge of who will be let go.
They were never asked to review or had any decision in this,in fact they only knew after it happened.
It was the higher management decision,based on your earnings and affiliation with them.
These are facts dear....most of folk who were let go are in fact the TOP performers(and I am not talking just about IT),and thats probably why there are some unhappy people here,since once you work hard for the company and fight your way thru it does long way to show the Stephord wifes culture.
Most of folks were fired for rocking the boat or being different.And,well you can be proud to be gone with them since that actually shows your character...although posting here is good for venting out.

"These are facts dear....most of folk who were let go are in fact the TOP performers..."

Really?  Oh dear.  Now THAT is typical CG competence.  Let go of your best people.  Did they learn that in business school?  

I hope they put that in their recruiting material or the careers section of their website.

"Join CG...be the best in your profession...and then when it's time to layoff people, we'll be sure to let you go first."

Here's to hoping CG dies a slow miserable death.  

Hello everyone,

Here is a reality check to those who are "expressing themselves" about the layoffs.
It is very unfortunate that this has happened and I am sorry for it but in reality you are talking a bunch of crap about CG when if you had the opportunity you would more than likely and gladly take your job back. It is a good company to work for and as for calling people out that is simply unprofessional and childish. Sure people have their opinions of other workers but as long as you get your things done and in a professional and exemplary manor the satisfaction lies in your success and not in putting others down. In every job there will exist those people who dont belong or shouldnt be there but apparently they did something right to be in that position so mind your words, your business, and above all yourself.

Lay Mehoff...I love the pun!  

What's with all the puns being used here?  Personally, I love em.  But to see more than a few people thinking along the same lines is funny.  

So after reading all of your bitching and whin... errr... constructive criticism, I figured I'd help all you disgruntled workers find the perfect environment that is the opposite of everything you hate about Capital.  Let see this place should have:

* No women
* Nobody over 30 years old
* Everybody stays late
* Nobody has a family to go home to
* Everybody knows your name (not just your initials)
* Something better than ass kissing
* Everyone can perform
* No drinking cool aid

I think this might be right up your alley:

http://losangeles.gaycities.com/bars/nid/2301/

lol....that was good Truth.

Come on...gimme a hug.

For those of you not familiar with CG, I'd probably look at the Computer World review rather than read the ranting here that is a reaction to the layoffs that just happened.

I would like to note though that one of CG's main selling points for a job hunter was that they never do layoffs. Unfortunately, this is not the case anymore.

xyz...

And I'm sure you'd feel more comfy and cozy reading the Princeton Review about info on colleges instead of the real scoop over at unigo.com.  And maybe you'd prefer the "official party line" over what you can find out about a place on yelp.  

Fact is, you don't like what you're seeing.  A lot of people commenting here don't like what they're reading about CG.  And that is precisely why this site exists.

THIS is not CG.  This site will not be silenced.  Don't like it?  Move on.  But people feel like speaking their mind about a company and that is what this place is all about.

I could care less about CG.  I do care, however, that people can speak their mind.  

everyone... i would ike to appologize for my comments earlier.  ive actually never worked at cg... i could never get a job there.  i just deliver pizza.  

i lost my job last month and the girl im staking moved out of state.  I tried eHarmony but all of those feminist nazis wouldn't return my calls... whatever.

Againg, I'm SORRY.  I'm a huge D-bag. 

omg hax!

Well, its amazing how many "CG folks" are such well-wishers of others who speak their mind... perhaps its only fair that they post their "opinions" here as well... maybe it would be a good idea to defend their position instead of attacking another's opinion?  contradicting someone is not a valid argument.. its merely contradiction... of course, assume that everyone here is gay (thanks to TruthBeTold)... so, if you work at CG or used to work at CG, you are expected to be:

- a good citizen who does not express their opinion

then again.. excon77 assumes that most people at CG including him/her is a "top performer" and the ones here are losers who are no better than the amoebas in their toilet seat...

CG is not a government job... heck, even the government is laying people off... so, those of you that are in your comfort zones... hope reality hits at some point soon... because once those of us that left CG, CON or initials... are in a better situation than most... and yes, we DO accomplish things in less time and do it better... probably another reason we were originally hired... 

This is not personal... unlike you CG-iites... please.. fall off your high horses... 

Its amazing how all the CG life-long .. employees are getting upset.. now they feel like they can mouth off since the layoffs are over... so, please.. if you got laid off.. do NOT express your opinions... wonder if any of them ever thought their job was on the line... 

Hey, it's not my fault that this thread has a subtle homoerotic undertone.  Besides, what's wrong with being gay?  I voted no on prop 8, didn't you?

The truth is that Capital let go (or is planning to let go) around 500 people.  Thats just about 5% of the associates worldwide.  That's far less than other financial companies like Fidelity who laid off over 10%.  

If you're a great, highly skilled, motivated "top performer" who is too good to work at a company like Capital, then why are you on some annonimous message board complaining about it?  You should thank your lucky stars that you're not there and move on to your new job... you know, delivering pizzas and stuff.

jagoff... it was the personal attacks, call outs, age, gender and sexual preference negativity that came out initially.  You don't think people will take offense to that and come back attacking?  Why don't you people get off YOUR high horse.  If you call speaking your mind making harsh comments about age, gender, sexual preference, etc... then keep on doing such as you are allowed your freedom of speech.  Just keep in mind that these personal comments give no credibility when you speak about the culture of CG.  Sticking to objective work related facts would do you better.

ok...you guys are funny.  jagoff's "apology" was clearly done by someone else.  

I was just checking the site before heading to bed and saw the apology, and couldn't help but laugh.  I don't know what it is with this CG crowd, but it's definitely a lively (and opinionated) bunch.

In other parts of the site related to other companies, people usually comment on their suffering due to the layoffs.  Here, you go off on each other.  Go figure.

Even prior to the impersonation of jagoff, we'd been planning to implement true user profiles.  Just an FYI..it's coming soon, maybe by this weekend.  We're busy with a lot of other site related stuff, but this seems like a much needed option.

You'd still be able to comment using a name you can fill in at comment-time, but you'll also have the option to "own" a username to do all your commenting (requiring you to login to do that).  Either way, it'll be anonymous (we won't be asking for email addresses or anything that would identify you).  But you'll have an extra option for commenting if you want to use it.

FWIW, this love/hate relationship among you is entertaining.  I thought the crowd that might make the most noise might come from employees from some high tech company.  

But CG?  Who knew...

I had to reread jagoff's apology a second time and that's a work of art. It's seriously so funny.  

Whoever did it...very, very well done.  I'm not agreeing with it. I'm not disagreeing with it. I just love the humor angle.

Seems like the CG folks are a little too uptight and can't accept criticism of any kind. Non one was called by name except for GYYB or someone, but take light of the scenarios and don't get yer panties in a bunch... geez.. are these grown-ups here???

Michael, I agree.  It was funny.   Whoever did it, thanks.  I will now retire to my pizza delivery duties... 

Does this mean they finished SPARK-III?
My PA says there's life on MARS.
Let's schedule a meeting on that.

Davids... how are things in CorpSys?

The samurai is hoping to see a few group hugs or he's afraid the decapitations may start again ...

I wonder how many of you have read the articles in Computerworld.  That publication has been around for decades.  In 2008 Capital Group was rated #1 in all of the US.  That sounds pretty impressive.  It goes on to state, “If you're an IT worker who thrives on competing with colleagues, takes pride in acquiring higher titles and believes that working crazy hours to meet a tight deadline is just part of the job, The Capital Group Cos. is the last place you'd want to work — and the last place that's likely to hire you.”  Many jobs these days are highly competitive and quite demanding.  Who wouldn’t want to work for a company where you can relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor?

The article goes on to state that “if you want to make competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, a supportive and nurturing manager, extensive health and retirement benefits, even more extensive training and growth opportunities, and three weeks of vacation time to start, then get hired and retire there.”  It also states that the company is highly collaborative and input-driven.  How can you beat that?    

It sounds like a wonderful place to work and a dream come true.  How come more companies can’t be like Capital Group?  I think I would rather do that than work at the Pizza Delivery (no disrespect though).  Are you all sure that you are not just disgruntled or got a bad rap?

Does anyone ever accept any facts?  Seems like quite a few are just blinded by "the benefits"... and how "wonderful" it is ... maybe some of the people here are satisfied with their situation... If you notice on Linked In... some of the CG associates used to be "Directors" or "VPs", but at CG they are just team managers... why would you get downgraded?  Also, when you are promoted to manager, from associate, you are a "manager-in-training" for about a year? Of course, it seems to take more than 7+ years before you can even apply for such a position, but then some Manager get promoted to Sr. Managers when they don't have any team members under them... so, how does that happen?  Can someone explain this?  or does it not matter?  Some may truly be disgruntled... but some may have actually experienced the corporate dysfunction.  So, no matter how much a company cares, you still cannot change the basic inherent human traits or hide them... from being exhibited... besides, no one at CG discusses anything personal... 

TruthSayer is being judgmental as are others who can't accept any negative comments.

and the rest can't accept any positive comments

QQSayer:  you are one of them

Am I in the right place?  Is this the gloom and hate message board.
OK, last time I looked, no one was chained to their desk.  I'm pretty sure most of the people in the offices came in voluntarily, and were not drugged and dragged in off the street.  I'm not going to try and defend against all the negative comments.  I guess I just have a pretty positive attitude, and like working there.  If I were laid off, I might have a different opinion, but the up to a year salary in severance is pretty generous in my opinion.  
So, if you are a CG employee and don't like the environment, the door to HR is always open.  If all the discontented leave, it's less likely I will be layed off :-)

Doom and gloom?  Well, Google just laid off 40 down the 405fwy so if you still have a job, it's not that bad.  But it's bad out there.  

Be grateful you're visiting the CG cafeteria and not working behind the counter there.

:->

Minority report: you should stay at CG... perhaps they can afford some spelling classes for you... 

EyesWideShut... well, need we say more?  :)

Are you kidding me "minority?"?  You're going to play the ineffectual card of picking on spelling on an online forum comment?  Try reading a few more forums online and tell me how many people there are spelling bee winners.  BTW, what words were misspelled?

layed off --> laid off.  

But yes, that's a cheap shot.  

All this petty crap.  Does it ever end?  All the CG folks need to just go back to their cubes and be happy, since that is your happy place.. the rest.. find some job and move on... CG sucks.. anything else?  Ok, good. give it a rest.

Back to the Cube
You will do what I say, when I say
Back to the Cube
You will leave when I say, you must leave
Back to the Cube
You coward
You servant
You blindman

Back to the Cube

The puma circles the animals
looking for the young, the old, the weak.

As part of the Capital Rideshare "Guaranteed Ride Home" program, cabs were lined up in the driveway on Black Friday in case you (or your ride home) got canned that day. And they say CG doesn't care...

don't go away mad, just go away

This staff reduction was the best thing happened to me in a long time, atleast through the several years I stayed at CG. I was hanging around just because of my MRP. Besides that there was no work to do and so no career to build. Only those who fell in following category were liked in that co.
1. Born in the country where my Sr. Mgr was born. I am talking abt the Sr. Mgr whos mouth froths up when he gets excited.
2. Those who dont know what they are. CG loves confused people.
3. Those who are good at kissing their mgr's big b***.

Now I dont have to be where I never belonged and I get to keep my money...ha ha ha... and since I am competent and not like one of those who have been there a loooong time and dont even know how to create a resume, I will certainly find a new job where I am happy.

Happy2bxed...if you got a picture of that Sr. Manager where his mouth is frothing up, I'll personally see to it that we add a feature on the site for photos.

:-)

Maybe we can start up a HOT or NOT for employees.  One of the CG guys here found his girlfriend at CG.  I'm dying to see what she looks like.  Word is, the place is full of older ladies.  I doubt hot women go into investment banking, but I could be wrong.

Of course, there would be no way to verify that any pics posted would be of people who actually worked at the company, but the idea has some legs.

Michael:  Not many HOT women in IT, period.  Then again, NOT many HOT women in accounting either... yes, a pictures how would be nice, but we will need more than headshots to identify the women from the men.. if you know what i mean...  :)

I meant - Picture Show

Devo:  Was it supposed to mean something?  or just a bad attempt?

Well, I've been afraid of changing
'Cause I've built my life around you
Time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I'm getting older, too 

Oh, take my love, take it down
Climb a mountain and turn around
If you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well the landslide will bring it down

:-)

London calling.

In the 60s and 70s it was job security to hord technical knowledge for job security, those were the days of mainframe and unix.

Then came the 80s and 90s, it was all about knowledge sharing, bulletin boards, online knowledgebases. It was the equivalent of the 60s Free Love movement, but for IT folks.  Oh and now, it's called IT, not Data Processing.

In the 90s and 00s management realized that a single disaster could wipe out data. CG has a policy that people from the same team should not fly on the same airplane. Data should be redundant between sites, and that everyone with a valuable job should cross-train a peer for backup.  This was great, because a technical person theoretically could go on vacation, and business would somehow get by.

Welcome to the present:
If you are skilled and have a cross-trained backup, you are flagged as redundant. Now that has become the dirty word in IT.  REDUNDANT now means disposable, wasteful, and somehow that now makes you a bad person that should be eliminated.

Action : Reaction

The peer-to-peer knowledge sharing "intellectual well" has dried up. The punishment for sharing is the scarlet letter of Redundancy.

Attention Capital management: 
Through fear of being flagged as redundant and then cut, you are inadvertly re-creating an environment of paranoia and knowledge hogging reminent of the 60s and 70s.  That is the first symptom.

The second symptom is an increase in backstabbing, for survival.  I say increase, because backstabbing is always present in every organization.

Flagging and targetting people as Redundant resources, used to mean the environment and labor resources were robust, and even more, were cohesive, and a decent level of teamwork.

Now every person is out for themself.  
You are bringing out the worst qualities of 60s and 70s Data Processing and military backstabbing culture into the present.

When you pull out some of the green grass, weeds will sprout.  You don't appreciate the value of the green grass you had, till after the weeds have taken roots.

All animals are equal, Doctor.
But some are more equal than others.

Capital_Piggy, which ones do you eat?

CG management in their great wisdom, believe they have to cut off a few fingers to save the hand from the jam. They seem to have forgotten the company credos of patience and long term stamina to ride out obstacles. 

You think you saved yourself by cutting off a few fingers, but when the economy picks up, and you buy yourself new prosthetic fingers, you still can't feed yourself or wipe your behind.

The old Capital management has retired, died off or out-numbered at some secret black-mass board meeting vote.  The new blood in the executive offices are fly-by night mercenary officers. Come in, squeeze the blood out of the turnip, then impress everyone with your short term cost savings.   Score high praise, then ditch the job for another more lucrative job at another company, leaving Capital held together by duct tape.
you'll see, mercenary officers always betray the people they work with.  

In March, looking forward to that uplifting powerpoint with the typos. to let us know that we are a team... everyone else... well they are not part of our team any more.

what a prick, go back to Jersey, and take your entourage.

leave us old guys alone, we know how to run things.

Bert S.  Grow a set or get out!  

It's people like you that have allowed this organization to fester and remain complacent.  It's people like you that need to speak up and just not bitch and moan about how things used to be or should be!

Here's another perspective of what can happen when you extricate yourself from a precarious situation ... http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/2190578/detail.html

Jules: a little extreme.. don't you think?  How long have been on the sauce?

srmanager: chill out.. people CAN express their opinions... last time i noticed, the first amendment is still there... if people can't express their opinions, like at CG... then this is a good forum for them.. so go back to your desk pal... and let people express.

I love this part:  "if people can't express their opinions, like at CG..."

I thought CG's "consensus" driven culture seeks out all opinions? 

Prego tastes yummy ...

Hemingway, the point of the article is that this guy cut off his fingers and was better off for it.  Just sayin ...

By the way,  "English ... do you speak it"?

Jules: you must have a pair - obviously only YOU speak english, the rest of us are french-canadians.. or better yet, eskimos...

Orwell:  Consensus when it comes to what?  how things are supposed to be done?  How long does it take to arrive at that??? 1 day, 2 days, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months?

how may people does it take to change a lightbulb?

at CG, yes it takes MANY people, many committees, but the real ball buster is that it takes between nine to 18 months.  All the sporatic freezes because something irrelevant happening somewhere in the Capital empire. because someone else in the other 10,000 people is making a change during the same week that you are making a change, a committee of ECMS morons that have no clue about this specific technology, get to draft up a risk assessement, scored arbitrarily, the higher risk score, the more clueless of the technology they (ECMS people) are.

To jules winnfield - if you insist on using that URL as an analogy, regarding the article about the guy that cut off his arm to free himself.  He is highly regarded as an idiot in the extreme sports community.  he was poor planning to begin with, terrible communication skills, fast quitter after 3 days, what a wuss, some people fast longer for lent or a hunger strike, or a hollywood diet.  and now because of his series of stupid mistakes, he gets advertising spots, but for what?  for "I should have used this product to save my life" sattelite phones, rope, paper and pen to leave a note with a friend to his whereabouts.  

really - when using an example to support your caim, don't lookup an article about a idiot - it only puts you in his category.

I want you all to stop blogging and get back to work... or else....or .... uhhhhh....  oh wait, i got It.  I'll threaten to cancel your annual bonus!   no wait, thart's already been done.    I got it!  I'll threaten to give you a lower annual review and lower raise than you deserve.... oh wait... We already doctor up low reviews for 80% of the employees anyways to suppress decent raises, so we can pass the money to the top 20%....

oh well, I got nothin' to threaten you with...  you can go back to blogging (so we can identify who you are) and fire you for it.

The biggest readers of this blog are HR and CG management, instead of doing the job they were hired for, they are reading this blog daily trying to flush out the bloggers.

"but the real ball buster is that it takes between nine to 18 months."

Damn that was funny.  Didn't see that coming.  Still laughing.

:-)

The extreme sports community - there's a bastion of Einsteins.  He was a mechanical engineer, haven't met too many of those who are idiots.

Now if you meant he made mistakes or did things that contributed to or exacerbated predicament, I will concede that point as I cannot speak to it.  Nonetheless, the dude something extraordinary to fix the problem.

Going back to Bert's post ... how about this, it makes no sense to keep your fingers in the jamb.  If no one is there to remove or open the door what do you do?  I'm missing Bert's point given that other companies across the financial services have taken similar steps.

By the way "Persistence", when posting in internet forum and ridiculing someone maybe you should use a spellchecker, otherwise YOU end up looking like an ILLITERATE idiot.  

p.s. Don't bother trying to use a pencil eraser on your laptop screen, it won't work!

p.p.s "Say what again, I dare you"!

Obviously... everyone here is so well educated ... one would have to go to a bowling alley to hear this or meet people of such caliber as jules... "Nonetheless, the dude something extraordinary to fix the problem." .. perhaps you should be so righteous as to write properly before calling out other people... was your admin on leave that they couldn't check your work for you or did your committee not have time to review your work for a few days before you post it... go do your work... or should we call you Jules 'Dumas'?

Did someone shove his sword up his @$$?  Good riddance.

[quote]"Nonetheless, the dude something extraordinary to fix the problem." .. perhaps you should be so righteous as to write properly before calling out other people... [/quote]

Darn, I was hoping no one would catch that.   Good eyeball.  This daggone thing needs an edit button.

Question, what do you have against people in bowling alleys?  Bowlers are fun people!

Nope, the Samurai became Jules .... and now I want to shoot somebody ...

"The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of the darkness. For he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know I am the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon you."

KAPOW

p.s.  You guys need to lighten up ... 

Ok, never knew there were samurai trans-sexuals.  Is there a group for that as well at CG?

"This daggone thing needs an edit button."

Agree.

It would also be nice to have the ability to post an avatar or photo.  Allow us to personalize it a bit.  

Jules is a guy's name you silly donkey, how about some waffles!?

You'll want to gnaw off your arm after working for many of those self-righteous "senior managers" at Capital. Free to express your opinion, now that's rich. It's actually a great way to get redlined for the next layoff, from what I've seen.

 

OC Register was late to the party and had to make a correction on the CG layoffs.  This place had "the news" on the layoffs before they did.  Not that this is a news site.

http://irvineretail.freedomblogging.com/2009/03/04/capital-group-to-dismiss-152-irvine-employees/3533/

Shrek, waffles with strawberries on top, thanks.  I forgot, Jules is french.

Coyote Aossociate: you think people have been redlined for layoffs? because they bloged their opinions?  well, paranoia is rampant there, so, i guess it coud be true.  I am sure HR is reading this.  HR needs a sword up their @$$ too, perhaps?

May be just a rumor.

Also. Of course a company with this kind of resources can afford to hire top of the line (free lance, not staff) hackers to find who each one of us is. Think about it.

tippingpointer....

On the rumor, care to paste the content of the memo?  

On the fear of being laid off because CG might hire a hacker to somehow identify the folks posting comments on here, I'm a little speechless.  I'm not sure what to say.  Do they hang pictures of Stalin in the buildings where you work?  That idea is straight outta the old USSR.

But seriously...that's paranoia.  It's par for the course at CG where more than one person has mentioned/confirmed that CG really doesn't like its employees speaking up.  But wow.  You'd think a company losing millions of dollars in assets would find it more important to focus on that than worrying about its employees speaking their mind and exercising their constitutional rights, in an anonymous manner no less.

The people here are expressing an *opinion*.  They're not exposing corporate secrets like the formula to Coca Cola or Google's search algorithms.  I don't know whether their opinions are fact or fiction.   You guys are on the inside as employees or former employees, and you'll call each other's statements out as having merit or it being total BS.  To use Digg's catchphare, "the wisdom of the crowds" will negate one person's ridiculous assertion. 

That said, if you comment anonymously, what's a hacker supposed to find?  I can tell you what the underlying table captures -- it captures....your anonymous name.  You chose to use "tippingpoint".  What are they going to do with that?  And what happens if you come back next time and comment as "december", and then "water", etc.  What then?  How will they know it's the same person?  Granted, it makes the online conversations a little more chaotic since "you" will have 3 or more online personas, but I'm still trying to figure out what's a hacker going to do with mere usernames that are totally anonymous and are fully arbitrary.

We don't capture IP addresses, so don't worry about that.

Email addresses?  Those can be fudged too.  We don't check them, nor use them.  They're only asked for when a person chooses to be a "member" (loose term) and the only reason to be a member is to start a topic instead of only being able to comment on topics already started.  The idea of asking for an email is to allow a user to reset their password if they forget it (though admittedly, that functionality hasn't been added yet, but it will be).  

Even here, there are so many ways to maintain anonymity -- just use an email alias.  

That's too much trouble?  Then provide a bogus email address.  The only downside to that is having to start up another account/username if you forget the password since you won't be able to reset it (since you won't get the email allowing you to do so since you provided a bogus email address).  If you can live with that, we can too.  Like I said, we don't use any email addresses provided.

And while we're here, the passwords chosen are stored as hashes -- they're not plain text and neither I nor anyone else can read them.  Could they be reverse engineered?  Anything is possible, I suppose.  Hackers have found holes in Windows and Adobe PDFs and I suppose that given enough effort, assuming they break in and get root access to the server and make their way to the database and then get a hold of the hash, they might be able to apply some exploit to reverse engineer the encrypted password.  

Their reward for that effort?  They get to start a topic "as you".

We knew this would come up.  Seriously.  We knew that some people would worry about being identified.  This place doesn't work unless people feel safe in maintaining anonymity.  I'd like to think we covered all angles and went out of our way in trying to allow for anonymity.  

The upside of anonymity is people should feel more comfortable speaking their mind.  The downside is there is no way to vet the people commenting.  Some goober who has never worked at CG (for example) can come on in and post/comment in "your" space as a CG employee and there's no way to vet him/her as legit.  It also provides an opening for more spammy-like comments. Such is life on the net.

Given the two options, I'll side with anonymity every time.  Other than keeping the server up and running, nothing else is as important.

Having said all of that, if you're *really* worried that CG is going to hire a freelance hacker to find a way to identify you so they can lay you off in the next round...

1.  I know a good therapist
2.  You really need to consider leaving CG when the economy picks up
3.  If you do get laid off, send me a comment via the feedback page on the site, and I'll see if I can help out by using my network of contacts to help you into another job.

But honestly...you are a prisoner there at CG.  It's making you paranoid.  That culture is no good for you.   

</done with CG>

After my last comment, I just happened to notice that this thread has 111 comments.  Wow.

Might I suggest that one or more of you consider starting new topics as you see fit.   Reading/following this page is going to only get harder when it's nothing but one long conversation.  

There's good stuff here in terms of people's comments, but the sheer size of it makes it hard to follow unless you have the patience to wade thru 111 comments.

Just a suggestion...

Thanks for taking the time to clarify Michael. This is tippingpointer.

The two data points I thought a superpaid hacker could track are email address and ip address both of which you addressed. I Even if the data isn't captured anywhere a super hacker could have a mirror image of your server as the file is posted and track down the ip address.

I am now using an internet cafe. And I did give a fake email address so I think I am safe unless they can do a psychological profile based on language and emails at the company

We don't have Stalin. We have an expensive art collection in the mental-institutionally white walls....

You're not paranoid if they really are after you.
But seriously that waaay overestimates what passes
for senior management at CG.

While they'll spend hours in meetings going over
clusters of "inappropriate" joke email forwards
(via Lotus Notes!) amongst the Lower Associates, the idea of tracing IP or email addresses is completely 
beyond their ability to even conceive.

They can, however, make a pretty slick Prospectus,
complete with new multi-decade return fold-outs to 
show how it really IS worth having active management!

The 2008 Stock Market Crash is the death knell for CG.

It may not collapse in our lifetimes, since the
"management fee", or "legalized skimming" is
still monumentally huge at this scale, even at 1%.

But JBL is long-dead... as well as any ideals
he may have once had.

Fact: At a retreat, ex-cia and ex-KGB "consultants" were hired to train analysts in probing skills.

I do think the logistics of getting the job done is beyond CG HR/Senior Mgrs. But deep, deep pockets of skimmed active management fees can buy the "consultants" (ex-nsa contractors) to get the job done.

Reputation/secrecy is huge with this firm. Their motivation may be less personal vendetta than to seek an example. Think of what they stand to loose if a consultant/client doing due diligence or a potential insead mba where to google cg and land here where the truth is.

And... there's the story of the many people who were given the choice to resign or be fired. so it could avoid paying uninsurance. beware of your review, sheeee-ba. 

I've heard of the memo tippingpointer mentioned. The author was fat-cat DFH.

I heard at lunch today that June is the next round.   Just saying.

Brea office is closing by June 30. We got the word yesterday.

I thought Brea was being shut down anyway after they put up the new campus in Irvine.  

The references to "The Firm" and "Stepford Wives" are unfortunately dead on.  It is a well known (and rather bitter) inside joke of sorts amongst many CG "associates".

"But honestly...you are a prisoner there at CG.  It's making you paranoid.  That culture is no good for you."

Michael, there was a rumor started at one CG office about hidden microphones in wall mounted air fresheners that had just been installed, recording coffee klatch conversations for review by the Catbert Crowd.  

People absolutely *believed* it.  One could call that an unhealthy corporate culture...but that description is a just a shallow surface scratch.

"But JBL is long-dead... as well as any ideals
he may have once had."

Sadly, all too true.

I too believe that CG knows more about what the employees do than what the employees think....I swear, about once an hour my screen blinks for about half a second and I think that they are taking screen shot images of what you are doing on your computer....not that I am doing anything wrong, but I am just saying that I think they really do spy on the employees...CG knows everything about everything....they even run reports to see who has accessed famous people's accounts and some have been fired because of it....In one site, I heard that they have mirrors in the breakrooms and no one can figure out why??? They are apparently right over the middle of the breakrooms in the ceiling. What in the hell would mirrors be there for????

Just because you are paranoid doesn't mean they are not out to get you.  And you are paranoid.  But you have some delusions going on if you think the company is obsessed with watching everything you do and taking pictures of your screens, two way mirrors perhaps in the breakrooms so they can monitor what you are eating?  Come on....
Why the paranoia anyway, maybe because you are doing things you shouldn't, wasting time looking at web sites instead of actually earning your living?  And those assoicates who were accessing accounts for nothing except to be nosy and waste time should have been fired.  It's a clear expectation that you don't access accounts unnecessarily.  What, we should cry over assoicates who don't do their jobs so others can work harder to make up for the slack?  It's called privacy and I applaud a company who protects mine.
Those who have something to hide are the ones wasting time worrying about being watched.  If you were doing a good job you should welcome the review, maybe they'd keep you around. 
Lay offs will be granted to the bottom dwellers who pull the company down by not doing their job.  That's a fact, the performance of all associates is being looked at right now and you can bet that regardless of tenure, the non-performers will get the ax.  

Scarlett,

You are clueless, naive, or way too Capital-brainwashed.

The company was put down not by associates wasting time looking at websites but by outflows caused by losses in the market and portfolio managers addicted to the nice yield of financials, which drove the outperformance when CG was a super star. By your logic the people who should be fired are not the bottom-dwellers but those who dwell on the top floors of the Capital Bank of America tower. 

I am glad you welcome being stripped of your benefits and paying 200 dollars for parking. Maybe you should show how good a "team player" you are and offer to rescind your MRP, pay your fair share of your health plan and take 5 and not 15 vacation days a year. You already show the expected brain-washed attitude, maybe bending over a bit more will give you an edge.

I have never seen a more lazy bunch than team managers, senior managers at CG. They all have your breed of Capital-gung-ho naivite.

Capital is showing its true colors baby. Now that the myth is gone only the old guard or too scared to venture outside will remain. The company is heading for the hole. Please post after you are laid off on May 22. Curious to see if you will show Stockhold syndrome or finally see the light.

about ten years ago, a friend was looking for work, they asked me how is the corporate culture, I used those exact words.... Have you seen the movie "The FIRM" ?   it's funny that others came to the same comparison on their own.

No they don't take screenshots of your computer, it's better, all those garbage programs that startup when you boot up your computer, its basically corporate-created spyware. Yes that's why your computer is slow, and this is not a myth or urban legend. Look at Task Manager at work, and then compare it with your home computer. A lot of suspicious "system" programs running in the background, collecting and reporting.

When I managed that team, your Internet browsing traffic was logged on the back-end, not at your desk, you logged in with your username (initials), so basically your machine asset tag, your username are all that is needed to log your traffic on the network.

So don't be stupid and access this web site from the office.

clearing your browser cache won't help. Your internet history is logged on the back-end gateway.







Thanks, 
BDS.

Thanks The firm. Associates - just unload the truth from home. problem solved.

I don't really care where I browse at work. If any company were to get rid of me on those grounds, I'm pretty sure it's because mgmt wanted to get rid of my already for other reasons (i.e. I'm not useful anymore).

Of course there's exceptions (i.e. browsing pornography, etc).

Well said capital_nologer_the_old_south!!! The people at CG to blame for this are the portfolio managers who made American Funds the largest institutional shareholder in companies like Citigroup who's shit hit the fan...those are the one's who should suffer, not us....it's people like Scarlett O'Hara who are the excess fat of the company that need to get cut....she obviously is a major ass kisser and it's people like them who feel they need to kiss people's asses to make up for their shortcomings....no doubt that there is not a shortage of ass kissers in CG....don't you ever wonder how people get promoted to a postion that is not even posted on the CG Web?? Well, it's either because they are a major ass kisser or they are sleeping their way to the top....

Could it really be? SPARK III still not done after all these years? and MARS, who could have imagined? Kind of like a 911... who could have imagined?

Those who reference JBL here, know the company. He was a founder. Capital Group is an active management company for its mutual funds. And just that fact alone means that you need to make yourself somewhat brain dead to make yourself believe that you are truly working for a company that cares about the quality of its product. But to work there, you have to make yourself believe, and that is the kool aid. 

As to speaking your mind. I do know they made a mistake one year in calculating the performance of the funds for purposes of informing associates about how the individual funds did in the MRP. This was in the days before Hewitt. Funny how they never informed any of the "associates" that in the prior year they had made investment decisions about their MRP based on bad numbers. The worst thing I can say about CG is that they teach the managers only too well how to cover their behinds. 

Give me a friggin break.  Are you serious kidding me?  You think that spyware is loading on your PCs during bootup to capture every keystroke you are entering?  Do you clowns have any idea how much testing it would take with all of the inhouse and off the shelf applications CG runs to make sure that these supposed spyware loading at bootup wouldn't wreak havoc?  Tested with each application update, distribution and patching.  There is software to track what is installed on your machine and to inventory your machine, but to track keystrokes?  give me a break...  What company doesn't have a proxy and firewall setup with their internet bandwidth?  If some sites are being actively blocked, that should tell you that the traffic is being monitored.  That part is no secret.  What a bunch of hokey paranoia.

I didn't say keystroke logger, I said corporate spyware. Many months ago, GI had a presentation of data already collected. they were measuring the time interval between web pages visited, and trying to make a claim that the web surfer <employee> was wasting all this time in between web pages browsed.  Which is so wrong.  Sometimes you search for keyword, you open a Wiki, you get 30 pages, you may read 20 lines, turn-around answer the phone, talk to peers, attend a meeting, then come back to your desk and browse another link - the time interval between web page 1 and web page 2 was measured and presented as lost productivity the employee was screwing around.  Luckily "Mr M" stepped in and exposed the flaws in their logic.   the corporate spyware is what I call it, it logs which software was used (like our finance accounting programs) how long, by whom, which computer, same with websites.    I'm not saying that information is quality to hold up in the Supreme court, but it is good enough for HR to print 100 pages of your computer activity, and building keycard activity, and phone calls, to justify a firing (not-layoff) there is a difference of severence pay. 

There is a dark side of HR, that most will find shocking.  It is far beyond safety and surpervision.   And you will not believe it until it happens to someone you know close to you, and you still don't fathom.

Manjula Choprasrivaniwala.

I feel free to speak my mind and I still work at CG, I may or may not get laid-off but I LOVE this web site. THANK YOU to whomever brought this web site to life.

TRUTH, that's a touching comment.  Thanks.  This site is brought to you by two of us from the So Cal area.  The idea couldn't be more simple:  let the people speak.  That's it.

I've learned more about CG than I would have expected.  More about Tiffany's and other places.  And this is all due to people speaking up.

To the extent that we pay the hosting bills (prepaid for the year so it'll be around a while) and own the domain, yes, it's our site.  But this is your site.  This is guido gone's site.  This is jules winnfield's site.  And everyone else.

We keep the lights on and try to add features, but other than an occasional comment, we stay out of it.  Whatever it becomes will be determined by the folks, choosing or not choosing, to speak up.

Thanks again...

Yes, TRUTH this is an awesome site...and Michael, thank you for hosting it...I assume that you will be keeping our info secure once Capital Group comes to you and offers you thousands of dollars to give up our info?? Well, I feel that this is a great place to vent and I will be more than happy to donate if I know where to send my money...

As for CG....well, we are still all staring down the barrel of the CG shotgun...3 months from now, we should all know our fate....thousands of us will be gone, but some of us will remain...who knows what is going to happen....will CG have a change of heart?? hopefully, but it's doubtful...they have already laid out their plans and I am still not sure if I agree with the fact that they are making us all shit in our pants daily....when will "D-day" happen??? It's not fun to go to work and not know if we will still have a job.....I almost wish they would just have kept quiet and done their "dirty work" without warning us...I am constantly paranoid that I will called into the "meeting" in which I am let go....I can guarantee you that they already know what they are doing...they are just waiting until after tax season to drop the bomb....let's all hope and pray that we have a job after June!!!

Unless you invest in GOOD spyware do not visit this site, BUT if you do please continue to express yourself. This is the only REAL place we can learn from each other what the next step will be in corp America CG. Wish there was a platt form for Geneva....

Smart?... why would I invest in GOOD spyware?

guido gone and all the good ones lost in battle,

you might want to know that cg paid bonuses this year to exempt associates. so much for trying to cut the costs. i am glad because i got a fat check in a tough time but not glad that it took the death of guido and friends to make this happen. 

I wonder if when i get decapitated in May/June, this will allow another associate the opportunity for a fat bonus later on. can we just all get along!

A pretty flower is called a Lotus
Obama is now the POTUS
I'll slap your head and pee in your bed
If you keep ranting about this year's bonus!

snk  snk  "What do I know you"?!  snk [fingersnap x 2]

Go Dice man.  Funny stuff.  

Let's duel bitch.

Two years ago, a friend of mine
Asked me to say some MC rhymes
So I said this rhyme I'm about to say
The rhyme was fresh and it went this way...

Took a test to get into CG
And all the fine ladies were amazed at me
So Larry put me inside, his Cad-illac
The chauffeur drove off and we never came back

They cut employees down to the bone
And now they got me rockin on the microphone
And then we talkin polygraph, and here's the laugh
Champagne caviar, and bubble bath

See...ah, that's the life, ah that I lead
No MRPs, no stock, and no money
So take that, move back and catch a heart attack
Cuz there's nothin in the world, that CG will ever lack

I cold chill at a party in a b-boy stance
This unemployment check has got me in a trance
Fly like a dove, that comes from up above
I'm rockin on the mic and you can call me CG-Love

snk snk [finger snap] snk snk

Hic-kory, dic-kory, uh-dock ...
I'm taking your f*ck#n Crystal Light ... what

mmmmmmmmhhhhhh  snk snk

I am getting a good taste of reality by keeping my eyes and ears open lately.  They are totally looking for anyone who is out of guidelines for anything (especially sick time) for a reason to "fire" in lieu of a layoff.  I suspect entire sites will be closed, seems like the buildings that CG is renting, etc would be the logical choices to close (any office that is a satellite of another).  It's hard to imagine what it is like as an AFD associate or someone in the Training dept, but I'm sure SHSV is next especially with this being the slowest tax season I can EVER remember.  

I have heard that Phoenix will be consolidated into LA.  Does this mean those in Phoenix will be given an opportunity to relocate? or will they instead get free tickets to Disneyland in pink envelopes?

I doubt they will close the center in Phoenix. While they are leasing the building, they would still need to find other companies to sub-lease the building and I am sure they would have a hard time with that. Plus I do not think that CG has the heart to just eliminate an entire center when they can cut all of the underperformers from centers around the country. It seems to me that they will look at all of the "service" centers a.k.a. "call centers" and cut the slackers. I am estimating that they will cut about 10%-15% off associates from every center. Just my thoughts. Also, I am guessing that the layoffs will occur on May 15th. Don't they always do layoffs on a Friday? Plus, they need to wait until after tax season and also after the launch of the new MM fund. 

Capital hates layoffs. It affects what they pay for unemployment insurance. They will find a way to fire the underperformers. Document, document, document. Or they will fire you and you won't be able to collect unemployment. If they cite some minor transgression, say you have documentation, and you will sue, and make them release if other associates, who were not fired, are doing it too.

Beware the HR jackals who give you a letter saying you can quit or we will fire you and give you a bad recomendation if someone calls. (That's illegal by the way).

The managers document about as well as Helen Keller writes in cursive!

PHO will no longer have an IT presence

IRV Service Center
- May 14
-  Underperforming associates as of last (april) review
- Aim is to retain talent during consolidation of teams. Duplicate manager positions will be eliminated
- sr. managers will be reviewed on an individual basis

Up here in cyberspace
Im looking down on you
My network trace
Everything you do

You think you have private lives
Think nothing of the kind
There is no true escape
Im watching all the time

Im made of metal
My circuits gleam
I am perpetual
I keep the company clean

Always in focus
You can't feel my stare
I zoom into you
You don't know I'm there

I take a pride in probing all your secret moves
My tearless retina takes pictures that can prove

Happy to get the bonus, but did anybody's review look eerily similar to last years with a few modifications?

Jack and the Lovelace's went up the hill
both will a buck and a quarter......

The Lovelace's came down with two-fifty
Those f**king whores

Oh!!!!

We deal with too much money that this should not even be an issue, BUT it is. If there is potentiional in an individual then they should be attending a college while in a TM position until the degree is recieved. 

But it happens high school diploma, good ass kisser and ur in....and it places the CG at risk. 

It seems like most around me seem immune to the fact that they may be laid off. Some of them will be in for a rude awakening next month!!! Sometimes I think that it might be better for CG to let me go and I will take the money and run....this could be a blessing in disguise for a lot of us!!! I mean seriously, how many of you really "enjoy" working for CG??? Yes, the pay and benefits are great, but where is the room for us to advance??? It's not there!!! Plus I am sick of working in such a stuffy and stuck up atmosphere...life is short and you need to enjoy it...life cannot be enjoyed in a CG office when people are constantly watching your every move and giving you "feedback"....

I want you kids to fill out your timecard every Friday, to make it easy on Payroll to cut your last check.  

Let's remember the company values: integrity, long term planning, and respect for the individual.

I fill out my timecard every Friday Ms. St. John. I hope that makes it easier for Payroll to cut my last check. Is there anything else I should do? Shall I kiss your managers ass like you do?? Company values??? Let's see...you mention "Long Term Planning".....hmmmm, I am not sure if that is a CG value anymore...if they had that as a value, they wouldn't be firing people....I hope you get canned.

I've only been with CG for a few short months, yet all this talk about "company Values" and "respect for the individual" is already make me want to puke!

What a bunch of wusses!  

What makes you think you are special, or deserving to be treated as such?

I took no time at all to immediately impose Wachovia's way of life on you poor CG crybabies: When I say "jump", you say "how high?"!  Too much work to do?  Put in more OT and stop taking vacations!  Low bonus numbers?  Be grateful you even get one at all!  You all forgot this is a work place, and I own your ass!

You think I keep changing the orders I bark at you because I forgot what I dictated yesterday?  Not at all!  I simply want to keep you on your toes; and frankly, I love to watch you low lives squirm!  Overloaded and no family or personal life?  aw!  Not my concern -- take it or leave it!  Those of you with the mistaken impression that this is a place for personal development or fulfullment, time to wake up and smell the roses.  You are here to be used and abused...and abuse you I will!  Don't like it?  There's the front door.

Even I was surprised how soon rectal bleeding started among the people that work under me.  You are all spoiled-rotten pansies; and I am making it my priority to shape you all up!  Stop all the whining already!  Be grateful and when I give it to you the next time, the only thing you should be thinking is "Thank you, Sir!  May I have another?"

I will not rest until the transformation to "CG Sweatshop" is complete.  You will take it, and you will ENJOY it if you know what's good for you!

What did the blind man say when he passed by the fish market?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYRU24IXvEI

MHI, are you for real?  I actually agree with you on the wusses at CG.  I for one work my ass off and deserve every bit of the vacation, bonuses, etc. that I receive.  I came from an outside company and brought true hard working values with me.  I can honestly say 90% of CG employees wouldn't make it a day in the real world.  Unfortunately, TMs are the worst and they are who run the place.  I honestly think I'd rather work for someone like you than the TM who worries about everyone's feelings all the time.  I just can't tell from your post if you're serious or making fun of CG employees.  Either way, I wish I worked for you!  LOL! 

[quote]I just can't tell from your post if you're serious or making fun of CG employees.I just can't tell from your post if you're serious or making fun of CG employees.[/quote]

I think this person was being very tongue in cheek.  By the way, nice generalization regarding 90% of the CG employees not being able to make it in the real world.  The majority that I know are highly talented, intelligent and put in an honest days work.

Unfortunately for us hard workers we are facing a layoff.  It is just frustruating to say the least that these slackers and loosers labeled as "team players" and "stars" will stay.  I for one refuse to kiss any TM's or SM's ass.  You can keep me for my good work ethics or say goodbye to me if you like getting your ass kissed every day by the associate who's abusing FMLA, coming in late and stealing from the company.  Take your pick.  I'll take my excellent work ethics elsewhere.

Anyone else feeling as if TM's and SM's can't make eye contact anymore.  They seem really fidgety around us little people.  They must know doomsday is coming..

If I were a TM or SM, I would be worried right now. SHSV does not need to have one TM for every eight associates. They can cut a lot of TM's if they up the ratio to one TM for every 12 associates. That seems very likely. And yes, I have noticed that my TM has been really crabby the past week or two and is not acting like their normal self. They must know something they obviously are not telling us. 

CG is a good company if you like taking and following orders. It is a great place to work in IT from the onset - nice offices (but cubes for all the engineers) - as a contractor it - however - has its drawbacks. One, you will be let go whenever they please - they do not honor their contracts. The employees treat you as contractors - - both at personal levels (like - you get paid more as a contractor you are reminded constantly although you don't receive any benefits), and at professional levels in the way they conduct themselves in meetings etc.

The upper management are not well-informed and those who have senior manager level positions (aside from are really really good few( are really slave drivers with no more technical background than say a truck driver. Of course, I'm not about to name names, but I used to worked for there, and I saw some weird stuff going on there in the Irvine campus. As a contractor, you are pretty much told what to do, and upper management will never really know what you do, since they are fairly disconnected with the team, with all of their holidays, sick days, and remote officing. The suprise is that they pretentiously relate to their "team" as if they were very close to them on a daily or weekly basis.

Of the places I have worked in high tech, I would say the place had more freedom and autonomy to perform work, 50% of the time, and the other 50% of the time, you are pretty much told what to do and felt like an outsider although then again thats what contractors are. Although, they don't just typically hire full times from the outside.

What I dislike most about CG is that they do not honor contracts, regretfully.

A look at the last WARN notice may reveal a small bit about the ratios to expect. CG=Top Heavy=safe minions

http://www.edd.ca.gov/Jobs_and_Training/warn/eddwarncndtz09.pdf

In looking out for the little guy,
WARN

Also it is true that most employees would not make it a day in the real world, although there are a few which are others have said here outstanding, which I agree. But a lot of the employees are not at the top notch of professionals out there, regretfully. I would say this is true for those that were there for some time. Those who are newer are a better class of engineer, and that's because some of the managers are the ones interviewing them.

Looks like something is brewing for next week.  Anyone heard anything.

Early Mid May. Much travel is scheduled for the Mgrs to descend on the remote sites they manage, to start the bloodletting.

Bruce Lee- I have also seen that there is a lot of travel scheduled for directors and other important CG employees. I think that the bloodshed will begin during the second week of May (5-11 to 5-15) and will continue throughout the week. I think that they will hit all of the offices, day by day, all week. They will not have just 1 day in which they do layoffs throughout the entire company. It will be 1 office, each day. They won't cause total chaos throughout CG all in 1 day. HRO will be one day, IND the next, then SNO, PHO, IRV....this should all end by May 15th. 

IRV - May 11 - 14.  Beware the suspicious 1:1 meeting.  It would be funny to tell your director that you are busy on that date, and to reschedule the 1:1 for the following week.

keep your car keys in your pocket, and your purse in your hand. 

Another obvious sign will be extra building security to ensure you won't freak out like Jerry McGuire and the goldfish.

Any ideas what the severance will be this time?

Guidelines are the same as round 1.

I got a below expectations for the first time in my 7 years here... am I as good as gone?

Last Review....sorry to hear that.  Hunker down.  Don't spend money.  Plan on up to $1800/month in unemployment.   Hope the recession is almost over.  And keep an eye on this week's unemployment numbers for April.  It'll tell you where we're at in the cycle.

I'm in HRO and am afraid to go to work tomorrow...not knowing is SO hard!

Layoffs have officialy begun in SNO. I came into work Monday morning and heard from the gossip spreading on the floor like wildfire, of two associates from Shsv that were let go on Friday.What confirmed it was that my Friend from work knew one of them and whats strange is that they weren't slackers.

We think that these layoffs will take place every Friday to prevent incident until the end of June.

Now we have Friday's to dread every work week until the end of June.

Peter Gibbons: You're gonna lay off Samir and Michael? 
Bob Slydell: Oh yeah, we're gonna bring in some entry-level graduates, farm some work out to Singapore, that's the usual deal. 
Bob Porter: Standard operating procedure. 
Peter Gibbons: Do they know this yet? 
Bob Slydell: No. No, of course not. We find it's always better to fire people on a Friday. Studies have statistically shown that there's less chance of an incident if you do it at the end of the week. 


Milton Waddams: [talking on the phone] And I said, I don't care if they lay me off either, because I told, I told Bill that if they move my desk one more time, then, then I'm, I'm quitting, I'm going to quit. And, and I told Don too, because they've moved my desk four times already this year, and I used to be over by the window, and I could see the squirrels, and they were married, but then, they switched from the Swingline to the Boston stapler, but I kept my Swingline stapler because it didn't bind up as much, and I kept the staples for the Swingline stapler and it's not okay because if they take my stapler then I'll set the building on fire... 



Bob Slydell: Milton Waddams. 
Dom Portwood: Who's he? 
Bob Porter: You know, squirrely looking guy, mumbles a lot. 
Dom Portwood: Oh, yeah. 
Bob Slydell: Yeah, we can't actually find a record of him being a current employee here. 
Bob Porter: I looked into it more deeply and I found that apparently what happened is that he was laid off five years ago and no one ever told him about it; but through some kind of glitch in the payroll department, he still gets a paycheck. 
Bob Slydell: So we just went ahead and fixed the glitch. 
Bill Lumbergh: Great. 
Dom Portwood: So, uh, Milton has been let go? 
Bob Slydell: Well, just a second there, professor. We, uh, we fixed the *glitch*. So he won't be receiving a paycheck anymore, so it'll just work itself out naturally. 
Bob Porter: We always like to avoid confrontation, whenever possible. Problem is solved from your end. 

Policy is posted on CG Web.  Payment is 1 month per year w/CG for exempt associates, 1/2 month per year for non-exempt.  3 month minimum, 12 month max.

Is that WARN notice for the Feb. layoffs, or the upcoming layoffs?

The WARN notice posted is for the 1st round of layoffs.

Of course the slackers never get laid off or fired.  This is what will be the most frustrating to alot of us. Knowing that the slackers stayed behind with a big grin on their face as we dedicated associates walk out the door. Has anyone noticed that the slackers are also the best ass kissers.  The looser on my team takes more personal calls than a receptionist.  Has more breaks and longer lunches than the rest of us and sucks up to the Sr Mgr like a b**** in heat.  Guess we'll see what tomorrow brings.

"Of course the slackers never get laid off or fired"--Man this is so true and the biggest slackers of them all are the some of the TM's. 

My buddy team's TM comes in 4 days out of the week at least 45mins late every morning. Once she sits her "ferby a**" down in the chair,,,the first thing she does is goes to the cafe to get her breakfast. 

You see..she can't do her job without her morning breakfast.And by job,,I mean sit there all day either talking to the other TM's about her knew shoes she bought or instant messsaging other TM's like shes in a chatroom filled with a bunch of highschool girls.

So after her breakfast,,,another 30 mins have past. She finally sits down to act like she's doing something. 

Talk about a waist of company time..sure she may be salaried..but come on..aren't TM's suppose to lead by example. 

And here I am going to work to see what tomorrow brings..following my micro-managed schedule. 

Is the TM you are talking about in PHO?? If so, I know exactly who it is. If not, then she must have a sister in PHO!!

What happened to the company having virtually no debt and that they planned for this ahead of time...wtf....
Man the morale in Sno is unreal...everybody wants to be let go now...they keep firing people everyday so they don't have to pay out the severance...some company we work for uh...

and don't worry about getting the bad 1/1, we are all getting them, they are pulling shit out of there asses now to make you look bad, so disappointed in CG, I thought there standards were alot higher, for them to stoop this low......

Yes, SNO associates are disappearing like crazy!  One of the victims had 17 years with the company.  I really think they will be firing people so they don't have to pay severence.  Plus, don't count on getting unemployment benefits if you are fired in Texas. 

We're screwed.  I bet they can all of us and replace us with temps!

Every call you make
Every source you take
Every SONI guideline you break
Every sick day you fake...

They'll be watching you...

anyone observe any cannage?

I get this feeling that there will be more fired associates than layoffs.  They are looking for any little excuse to fire us at this point.  Lets all walk on egg shells now from here till who knows when!  Someone on my team got talked to today because he had 10 minutes of overtime on his time card.  OMG those 10 minutes could have gone to the fat asses sitting in their mansions!!!  Life in SNO is pretty darn miserable right now...

Have you people even worked anywhere else besides AF? I've got news for you.. this is one of the best financial firms out there... I am angry as well about the situation we are all in as well.. but bashing this company.. try to work for a company that doesnt give a s**t

sorry for the "dupe as well"

You do work for a company that doesn't give a s**t.  They're profitable, but laying people off because even though they're making money, its not enough money.  

Have a feeling week of the 18th will hit LAO.  Multiple and more frequent meetings scheduled up to the Friday before.  Hold on for the wild ride.  Keep us posted of the goings on.  Love working here but HATE this waiting!

Able Body,
Hate to break the news to you, most companys that do layoffs are still in the black and profitable. 

" this is one of the best financial firms out there"..??

 How many times has CG been sued. I know of at least 3 times since Ive worked there . You sound like another CG brainwashed drone anonymous.


I guess its one of the best..if you a top fat cat  thats not in the shsv trenches on a road to no-where..unless your female...then the road to success is unlimited.


Uh oh..wait my Tm is coming...ahh no Maam Im not in "release" status taking a break from all these calls...yes maam I will get back on the phone right away and take call after call after call...while you sit there with the other TM and talk about Shoes and compliment each others dresses.


God...what the hell did i get into when i said yes to the job offer. Oh wait thats right...the HR bastards(all female by the way) told me I would be moved out of the department in 3-4 years.

Well going on 4 years..still in the Cube..with my BBA..wearing my 1980's black headset..taking calls on a 1990's version of an aspect phone..

Those bastards!

Females dominate AFS?  LOL!!!!  you're killing me.  Haha....

yeap,,that sums up the so called "best financial firm out there"

1)Road to nowhere
2)Lawsuites from unhappy individuals/corporations/broker firms..etc..etc
3)So many damn females there...I would comment more on this subject..but i feel the eyes of all of them just looking at...and im not even at work. damn aint that sad.

Are these women at least hot?  Working with women aint a bad thing.  

One of you enlightened posters please tell me what other financial firms will even come close to capital?... wait... from your posts I can tell what department you work in.. you probably havent worked anywhere else. Trust me.. the grass aint greener..By the way how mant times has CG been found guilty of anything? .. I challenge you to find any financial firm who has been found guilty fewer times. 

Look people, we all knew this was coming when they were hiring all the new employees, at least it was quite apparent to me.  The only question was when.

To all those complaining about the company, I have to say grow up.  I am in the same boat as you, but am greatful for what CG has provided to me throughout the years.  If your reviews were up to par in years past and you were so unhappy in this female dominated company, you should have transferred to another department.

I KNOW that this is the best job that I have had.  I have worked with great people and have come away with an abundance of knowledge about the industry and have mastered each position that I have held.  I am a female and I do my job well.  

Not everyone may have been as lucky as myself but you and you alone define your ultimate destiny.  Hopefuly when the layoffs do transpire, the right individuals are let go, but that may not always be the case.

For all you fellow CG employees out there, good luck and I am hoping for the best, for all of us.

I am SOOOO HOT!

Listen.. there is one reason you are still in your job you dont like.. you dont work hard.. maybe instead of bashing the company you work for, go find another job.. 

sure.. Im the one who is brainwashed.. go find another job in the financial industry and tell me what you think of CG then

Damn...two "anonymous" peeps in a row.  Ok...anonymous #1...what do you look like?  Talk to me.  short? tall?  thin?  heavy d and the boys?  help a fella?  

CG women...This is what awaits you:  http://pinkslipsarethenewblack.com/2009/04/24/ive-hit-a-new-low/

To "females dominate afs"

Find me one company where working in the call center doesn't suck.  Exactly what skill did you expect to learn from answering phones that's going to advance your career into something you want to do?  How do you expect to advance into anything worthwhile if it takes you four years to figure this out?

And people really ought to look into the mirror and stop scapegoating the supposed female domination in this company.  I'm sure there's plenty of bad female managers at CG - and bad male managers too.  There's plenty of good managers too.  Maybe if your manager was male you'd drop your sexist blame game and find the real reason for your unhappiness.  Start by looking in the mirror.  

What would Jesus do? but here's the twist. If the J-man was the company boss, would he lay-off his posse of the dirty dozen? or keep then along for a while until things got better?

Yesterday has been and gone 
Tomorrow will I find the sun 
or will it rain 
Everybody's having fun 
except me I'm the lonely one 
I live in shame 

I said goodbye to romance 
Goodbye to friends 
Goodbye to all the past 
I guess we'll meet, 
we'll meet in the end 

I've been the king, I've been the clown 
Still broken wings can't hold me down 
I'm free again 
The jester with a broken crown 
It won't be me this time around 
to love in vain 

And I feel the time is right 
although I know 
That you just might 
say to me 
What ya gonna do 
What ya gonna do 
'Cause I have to take this chance 
Goodbye to friends and true romance 
And to all of you 
And to all of you 

And the weather's lookin fine 
and I think the sun will shine 
again 
And I feel I've cleared my mind 
all the past is left behind 
again 

This is not eharmony. 

Sorry annonymous..but I also have to disagree with you. 

I was walking to the breakroom one day and heard a bunch of laughter coming from one of the team meeting rooms. 

To me,,it sounded like a bunch of "Hens cackling"

Sure enough,,when I look to see..it was a TM meeting. Only one..I repeat one male Tm was in there. That poor bastard..I wonder which SR managers Arse he had to wipe to get in there.

Its easy math anonymous,,Majority of TM's at AFs are Female..who will transfer or promote another female vs a male..no matter if the male was a harder worker because the female associate and Female TM have much more in common.

YOu must have worked at McDonalds before coming to CG if you think this place is so great.

this if Great stuff posted. Speak the truth people.

There not hot man. Majority of them eat cake at 8:30am in the morning if someone brings it. 

Bunch of cows. 

There may be one or two that are ok looking,,but only there at work. If you saw them at a club,,you wouldnt pay any attention.

Women = love to talk = Success in AFS

so i got approved for my time for the whole week this week. i was originally stoked because i had some things to do, but a few things got rescheduled and i decided to try and come to work instead. 

so i called up and asked if i could work instead and give the time back and i was told that there's no work available and i needed a TM to approve just coming to work. 

i'm going in today but i'm a little scared. 

i have a vacation day on monday, but i'm afraid to be out of the office at all these days. like i might miss something.

i'm a bit older than a lot of CG associates. i have worked in a few call center environments outside of CG and I have been laid off before. i have a little free advice for the younger crowd.

for those who may be new to this reality, there is no such thing as an honest multi-billion dollar company. for that much $ to be accrued, someone is getting screwed. welcome to the real world. if you truly morally object, go work for a non-profit. 

there is no reason to scapegoat any one at this point. what's done is done. don't do anything too stupid in the next few weeks and you'll either keep your job or you'll get severence and you can find a new job.  

every office i have ever worked in has the same annoying types. both management and employees. it's a reflection of society. you'll have to deal with it.

start prepping your resumes right away. beat the rush. yes CG may not give you a lot of transferrable skills, but accentuate the positives. did you lead a discussion ever? did you QAP other's work? did you facilitate training/team meetings? that's what you put in there. doesn't really matter what you know, new companies will want to retrain you anyway.

help eachother out. act as a reference for others. help look over a friends resume.

try to forget about what's going on when you go home at night. i know it's hard, but don't bring it home to your spouse/significant other/children/friends/roommates/etc. 

don't be afraid of laughing about it either. a little gallows humor can release the tension. 

good luck to everyone. both those who are leaving and those who are staying. life is fixing to change a lot for both sides i fell.

I did notice some sr asscociates in sno gone but not sure if they were let go or laid off. Nothing in BRO thus far but everyone is on edge about the WHOLE waiting time. But yes I do agree TM's are just searching, making up stuff, etc to get you in trouble. This has been happening since the beginning of this year. But the only positive thing is that TM's will be impacted as well. 

Also, some people want to be let go it's not a bad thing for everyone especially for some associates working in BRO since it's closing....

I just hope I am at work when people are let go... so I can sign the papers, because I don't give mytime back, I can't get enough....

Rumor is there is going to be some layoffs on the 15th of this month. Just a warning

How did you know that I used to work at Mcdonalds?.. I thought the name was going to keep my identity secret.. cover is blown aparently.. In your department there may be some female managers that you dont see fit for thier positions, get over it. There are plenty of male managers in the work who arent worthy either. Work hard, do your job, make friends w/ people that can get you places.. stop being such a marter.. I am going  to once again challenge you to find a job in the financial field that will give you what you get from this company. 

I am as upset as you are about what is and is going to happen. Act like a man and quit complaining. 

The waiting is the hardest part
Every day you see one more card
You take it on faith, you take it to the heart
The waiting is the hardest part

Did anyone see this link?  http://www.edd.ca.gov/Jobs_and_Training/warn/eddwarncndtz09.pdf
It's pretty interesting!  Especially since according to the paperwork, people were scheduled for lay off today in both LAO and IRV. So...do the layoffs have to happen on the date noted?  And could there be additional layoffs not noted on the warn document?

Any HR people out there that can answer my questions?

I also heard some buzz about one of the service centers experiencing layoffs yesterday (5/5), but I don't know any details.

We keep hearing various dates, but at this point, I don't know what to think.   It seems that most of the posts on this site are related to areas other than AFD.  Are there any AFD insiders reading this?  If so, what can you share?

Well...I hope they rip the band-aid off soon!  I can't stand the pain anymore!  UGH.

What the WARN notice says is that you guys (AFD) were given your "notice" on 03-06-09. So now that 60 days have past, they can proceed with their "firings" since 60 days have past. I am in AFS and I really do feel your pain. We have only known a week or so and it is already very stressful!! I hope that they make up their minds asap!!! Best wishes to you and the other AFD employees.

Those are the WARN notices for the February layoffs.  People were told on or before 2/5, given their 30 day notice and actually let go on 3/6.   The WARN notices for the upcoming layoffs won't be filed until people are notified. 

Am I the only one who is on the fringe of wishing that I were fired? I mean let's see....If you work in SHSV, what are your chances of actually moving up into a higher paying position? That's what I thought. And if you don't like to kiss ass, you really have no chance at all. So am I the only one thinking that being fired could be just what the doctor ordered? Should we really all stay at CG and just go through the motions to earn a paycheck? Or should we try to make something more out of our lives?? Think about it...we really don't make a shit of a difference in anyone's life that we deal with...We could be so much more in life, but yet we settle to work for a company that does things their way, and only their way. No one ever wants to speak up at CG for fear of the backlash. How many of you have ever gone to a Sr. Manager to tell them what a moron your TM is or what they are lacking in?? That's right, not many of you. And why is that? Because the "CG" way is to have the Sr. Manager pull your TM into a meeting right after you blow off steam to them to tell your TM all of the shit you just said about them. And what do you get out of it? One pissed off TM who will make your life hell for the rest of your time on their team. It is not a good working environment at all. 

I wish all of you in AFS and AFS the best. Who ever does end up going, please know that it may be the best thing that has ever happened to you even though you may not know that right away. For those who stay, I would seriously consider if you REALLY want to be a CG employee once the economy turns around. Maybe it's just me, but I feel the way CG has handled the recently announced "layoffs" is not acceptable. I am not sure if I can work for a greedy company like this who is still turning a profit, but firing employees anyway. Does CG get off on letting all of us sit here everyday and worry about our jobs and if we will still have them? WTF! Get it over with already CG. We are sick of waiting around to see who stays and who goes. 

Thanks for pointing out the date!  I read it as 5/6.

So...is that the total quantity?  I was expecting a 30% cut?  64 employees (in the grand scheme of things) is not that many.  OMG, why don't they just sell some of the artwork we have hanging all over the walls!  What's the point of ruining people's lives, as well as marring Capital's "good" reputation?  If the state of things is as bad as Kevin Clifford reported, then the measures should be more drastic.

I suggested Friday furloughs or mandatory vacation without pay, but no one seemed to like that idea (except for me).

Sorry AFD employee, I didn't interpret the WARN act that well either. Thanks to "Warning" for clearing it up. 

I totally agree with you about the artwork. Who the hell cares about the artwork in our offices? So that is more important that the people working for them? What about cutting the $400 health care reimbursement that people just buy shit because it's "free"? Pay cuts, furloughs, and mandatory vacation w/o pay are all good ideas. They need to think this through more. The economy is not going to be this bad forever. But I guess that's not our call. It's the big shots who need to make sure they still pocket their millions....(cough....Lovelace...cough...Clifford...cough...all the portfolio counselors).....hope they still enjoy driving their Ferrari's and Bentley's when they drive past us standing in the unemployment line. Maybe they should think about all of the families and kids they are affecting. Money isn't everything. Jon Lovelace would be rolling in his grave right now if he knew what this company is turning into. Pure greed.

Julie did these town hall meetings in SNO a while back, she was asked about the cost saving measures to save people's jobs.  Her response is that the headcounts are being reduced PERMANENTLY and they plan to NEVER grow in head count again.  When the market gets better, the plan is to "do more, with less"  which I understood to mean: do more business, more assets under management, with less associates.  Also partly because of GIG and the people that support GIG.

The next question was: how will you get more work done, with less people? overtime? outsourcing to Mumbai?

Her response was to play down outsourcing, saying that it's a commodity only.

Sure you can optimize a process, hustle a vendor for a discount, plan to fire the rotting deadwood like Bert BDS and that useless crazy looking bird Tara McCaw, but how will you get more done with less associates? that was answered ambiguously in the next paragraph.

Another question to her was: How come we still have so many highly paid contractors, while the associates are being laid-off?  
Response: The contractors have a skill or talent that the associates don't.  (bulshit)

by the way, when you hire or terminate a contractor, it's not measured as a headcount growth or lay-off.  That is the attraction.   Also, contractors on site are not thought of as outsourcing, those are temporary suplemental workers.  Outsourcing really means off-shoring.  it's the same shit.  someone employed by another company doing the work that used to be done by a CG associate that's all the same to me, call it what you want: contractor, outsource vendor, off shore.

MWC

to "do you want to leave?" LOL!!  i was one that DID go to my sr manager for help w/my moron TM, who had nothing better to do but to choose a female on her team to make her life hell!! and when she (victim) left, I was the next victim..MANY people had issues with her, and only one good thing came out of it, the dumb TM started being nice to me and fixed my review to be top notch, BUT NADA happened to her...she even got promoted few months after. she only k*sses b*tt to those that matter and muck every other female on planet. everyone is right about the brown nose thing.. I had no probs with the company, it was some of the TMs that didn't know what they were doing that ticked me off.

The room falls silent and ne'er-do-wells do a double-take.  Clickety-click-click-click tap sounds rise at a furious cadence as GenY'ers start to nervously Twitter.  The Samurai has returned from his voluntary exile to Pago Pago in American Samoa.  He adjusts his lava-lava and surveys the room.  The mood is tense and the people appear skittish.  He quickly surmises his Hattori Hanzo sword will do no good here.  He begins to chant "Goos Fraba", gently tugs on his ear a few times and exits the room.  He has resolved to confront the cognitive dissonance that exists in his mind at a later time ....

[samurai yell]AAAAIIGGGHHH!!!![/samurai yell]

He rushes back into the room and makes quick work of the poster's who show cowardice and publicly denigrate other's by name while hiding behind the anonymity of Al Gore's internet.  His actions are swift and surgical.

He says a small prayer that the company and those affected over the coming weeks will be ok.  As he returns his sword to its casing and prepares to exit the room once more, Gloria Gaynor's classic "I Will Survive" starts to play in the background ...

Welcome back AfroFro Samurai...Love the Hattori Hanzo reference...

Another Brick on the Wall

We don't need no education.
We don't need no thought control.
No dark sarcasm in the cubical.
uneducated TM's leave us associates alone.
Hey, unededucated TM's, leave associates alone.
All in all it's just another brick on the wall.
All in all you're just another brick on the

All TM's, at least go back and get AA"S

I hope all associates from CG are reading and I wonder are there any FA's out there ... Please express yourselves.....

For anybody who was let go in Feb, what was the process like?

- Did you have to sign a form?
- Did the give you a check or were you kept on payroll?
- Any outplacement / training assistance?

the severance benefits aren't a secret. it's on cgweb.

Does anyone know if layoffs are going to hit some of the smaller departments such as HOST, Finance and Accounting, Control Accounting, etc?  Not all of us that are concerned are SHSV, IT, AFD, or management.  Thanks and good luck to all of you that want to keep your job, do a good job, and actually enjoy working for Capital. 

Hi "likemyjob" good question! I heard HOST would be affected? I think some depts more than others are in the spot light becuase of over hiring but at this point all depts should take a step back and keep their eyes and ears open. Let's keep this web site going...this is the only form of true communication across all sites and all depts. 

ANY POW WOW UPDATES?

I heard Host and AFD are next.  Sales are slowly increasing.  Last thing CG needs is a 10 min hold time to get a SHSV rep on the line.  My guess is they are safer for the moment.
National and divisional sales meetings for AFD over the next few weeks.  May be outlining the new strategy going forward.  If so AFD is the target. and it may give a clue to the time line.
The wild card is if the are factoring in the ability to manage larger teams.  If so TM and possibly SM are on the line.
At some point you can only cut the front line back so much before it impacts shareholders and brokers.

Thoughts on it happening with a blast phone call via our disatir recovery system?  Calls going to selected associates not to show up until they receive a call to come in to discuss the severance package.... It would make for a clean way to carry out the execution.  Dismantle ID cards, etc.  Didn't we just have a disastor recovery practice too?  Always before they were carried out by TM.  If TM are on the line then you'd have to do it from a higher level.... hmmm.

Could someone please shoot Afro Samurai?  I see the scene developing... like Dr. Jones who gets threatened by the man with the sword on the streets of Egypt... he wipes his eyeborows, pulls out his gun and bang.. Afro's dead...

Does it really have to be taken to that level? I don't thinks so but a mass lay off may require additional planning. I feel everyone would be ok just to have no mytime that day and call associates in one at a time across all sites and then can the the TM's in the pm hours. Then have a recovery team made up of the remaining sr managers meet with remaing associates assign interm tm's until further notice, etc

Your point is valid, but the one absolute about CG is Total Control.  Whatever is done will be done in such a way that they can ease you outside without any interaction or confrontation.  
Back to back exodus during the day gives others too much of a heads up.  I think they will take lessons from the last round and improve the strategy.
Absoulute control.

They can lay me off with a text....doesn't matter, just do it. I respect myself, people and CG but I do understand how emotion can take it up a notch. I hope it all works out in the end... but just FYI I am ok with a TEXT.

wouldn't it be against the law to use our emergency alert system for layoffs? Good idea for another law suite if it happens....not right.

I LOVE THIS WEB SITE

CG lost it's control...with this web site!!!!!!!!!!!!!! godd luck.... on axe day!!!!!!!!!!!

At first I was afraid (have been brianwashed enough)
I was petrified (brainwashed)
Kept thinking I could never live (as patheticly enough)
Without you by my side( CG)
But then I spent so many nights(searching for childcare)
Thinking how you did me wrong (promoting TM's who gradutating from continuation high schools)
And I grew strong 
And I learned how to get along 

And so you're back (you made a mistake...hiring too manny people)
From outer space (who is in charge needs to get FIRED)
I just walked in to find you here 
With that sad look upon your face (we are all sad)
I should have changed that stupid lock ( i should have quit 5 yrs ago)
I should have made you leave your key (taken my reviews with shareholder acct numbers on them)
If I've have known for just one second ( looking back I would have never applied)
You'd be back to bother me

Go on now go (hurry up and lay off)
Walk out the door (bye)
Just turn around now (see ya... let's cut the cord and do the right thing)
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to break me with goodbye (false threats from uneducated TM's and srmanagment that know nothing)
Did you think I'd crumble? (really ...we won't)
Did you think I'd lay down and die? (maybe a lawsuite before that (( California))
Oh no, not I

I will survive ( That's why you hired me!!!!)
Oh, as long as I know how to love

Anyone knows what the date will be ? 

so far i heard: 05/14, 05/26.. someone said recently it might be in June...which date is most likely ?

Also, looks like all the directors will have 2 days off-site whole day meeting in IRV this week... 

I thought SHSV was supposed to begin this week.  05/14 or 05/15.

I guess time will tell.

so ready for this too end...

Have my health, family and a decent income so I can pay the bills. Not my dream job, but better than any other place I've worked, so I deal with it. I remember the days of 2 hours required AT every day for years straight. We were all exhausted, but we stayed. Very few people ever left. If people are so unhappy now adays, why hadn't they left for greener pastures before this all started? Some tried EDJ, USAA and many came back because the grass wasn't greener. Now I sit around and wonder why in the world we do have so many SHSV assoc's when there is no work. We all felt better when the AT reduced... big collective sigh. Is it really that extreme to expect them not to keep paying people to sit slouched down in their chair with a tiny explorer window open at the bottom of your screen thiking they can't see you surfing the net all day? whatever. Sad it's happening, but I saw a lot of arrogant self entitled egos come on board in the hiring boom. They need a reality check.

They told us don't you ever come around here
Go back to your cubicals
Don't want to see you here.
The Fire's in our eyes & their words are unclear
Just beat it!

You better run, you better do what you can
Call unemployement or post on twilightpad
So beat it!

No one wants to be defeated
But we have
It doen't matter who is wronmg or right

Just beat it! IT
Just beat it! SHSV
Just beat it! AFD
Just beat it! HOST

They're out to get you, better leave while you can
Utilize as much mytime as you can
Don't want to be a number just an EE
You want to stay alive, better do what you can
call unemployment or post on twilightpad
Just beat it!

You have to show them that you're really not scared
Just act like a kiss ass TM and you'll be spared

Just beat it!!!!!

Loving the songs. <3

I've been in HRO for almost 3 year in SHSV and I really do like my job. I met with my SR today and I believe she  doesn't know what will happen with the layoffs. I have really enjoyed my time at CG and yes at times felt like a stepford wife, but made my job the best I could. I enjoy talking to BORs and S/Hs alike and have to say you make the best of what you have. I've seen a lot of complaining on this site and personally don't think it's merited. Maybe it's different in HRO.....but there are still plenty of Shiny Happy People........
If I get laid off, I can honestly say I learned a lot and met people I will always truly be friends with. I am thankful for that. So CG.....thank you for great memories the past 3 yrs and the chance to meet some really quality people. One more thing.....HRO ROCKS!!!!!!!

I met with my TM yesterday and I don't know what I was thinking. I thought since our company was in a crisis stage she would...perhaps have an ephinay. I was wrong, nothing has changed... just as incompentent as ever. Probably even more since the uneducated ass kisser is desparate.

The company has given plenty of notice and it seems if you have  not met expectations, then you may not have a job July 1st.....well, what do you expect?  This is the real world. If you don't perform, you shouldn't be working for a company that prides itself of customer service and the word of mouth of brokers. Sorry if that hurts some feelings, but you're lucky you've held on as long as you have. Personally, I am glad the layoffs are not based on seniority.....it should be based on performance and if you do and good job......don't worry. I'm expecting HUGE numbers of layoffs, but I think there are a lot of slackers that have been employed way too long.

Am I the only person who is desperately seeking more info related to the upcoming layoffs?  Not that I don't care about how many of you feel regarding your past or current positions within CG, but I think that I'm done with reading the insults and bickering.  

I'd love to read more about when or how the impending layoffs at AFD will soon happen.  It's driving me crazy not knowing!!

Can someone throw me a bone please!?

dear AFD employee  
it will be mostly likely be two or three weeks from now.

watch out for 5/26

Proof- how in the world can you call someone an uneducated ass kisser when, 1st- you spelled epiphany -e-p-h-i-n-a-y and 2nd- you spelled desperate - 
d-e-s-p-a-r-a-t-e???
I am not a TM, I am just a regular SHSV associate, so don't get it twisted, but come ON, WHO is the uneducated one in this equation???
Capital Group is a fine place to work. Have any of you actually worked anywhere ELSE??? I doubt it. Y'all are just mad b/c you either got fired or laid off which you probably deserved anyway.

Have a great day!

5/26 
My scedule...
HR exit interview  
Drive home
Go online and sell IRA account (leave the fund min).
Book vacation and flight to Vegas or Orlando (not sure).
Meet up with friends have a steak and drink.
Go home and relax and thank CG and Lord baby Jesus 
The nightmare will be over soon!

and just go back to sleep when you get home.  They're taking about 3-4 weeks to release 401ks and MRP according to reliable sources.  Definitely book that vacation, though, Mr. Pink.  You deserve it.   Hope you were vested!

No one who knows for sure is going to tell us.  5/26 sounds as good as any other date.  I'm tired of waiting to find out too, but the longer it lasts, the longer we're employed & the longer before we really have to start worrying about money.

The dates are imminent and will transpire in May.  This will not drag on into June as this will hamper the WARN notification by the fiscal year end.

Anyone have any insight on whether any associates have been let go in LAO?

Wish they would just get this over with.  Everyone is going crazy waiting.

I am still employeed... don't get me wrong roadrunner and when you post spelling is secondary to content. You must not be familiar with posting and you may have a different TM. I never said they were ALL uneducated just mine.

While the majority of everyone seems to feel like they are in a downward spiral, wondering if they will be getting the axe, I've found a different approach.

Move up! 

Reviews are coming up and if you haven't been focusing on your PDG, it's about time to start. Get out those "Contribution Guidelines" and assess where you are at compared to where you want to be and do what you need to do to GET THERE.
You (and I) may still get laid off but improving yourself and your skills is NEVER a waste of time.

Personally, I like learning new things and improving my own skills and I recognize that there are many (unfortunately) in SHSV that don't care enough to put the effort in. Those that do, however, will find swimming upstream a lot more rewarding than swimming downstream. Yeah it's exhausting, but when you make it to your goal destination it'll feel a hell of a lot better knowing that *you* were your own driving force rather than ending up downstream knowing you'd get their eventually like everyone else and did nothing.

While so many in the department are fearing this upcoming round of layoffs, I'm focusing on promotion to Fund Rep. 

Those of you content with floating along in the current can kindly move out of my way.

And the few grammar and usage errors in my above post are well noted already. But feel free to attack as needed.

Could you explain what you mean by, "This will not drag on into June as this will hamper the WARN notification by the fiscal year end."  I still don't completely understand the details of the WARN notification.  Are you referring to the information that Capital will need to supply to EDD?  Or, do you mean that they have a specific window of opportunity to complete the layoffs?

I ask because several of those that I work with believe that the date is either June 2 or June 9.

I also hope this does not become a witch hunt at work with people guessing who is posting and pointing fingers with out solid proof...let's all remember we do not have an office in the city of Salem.

I have been told that it will happen in May.  Capital pays the associate for the 30 required notice for the layoff, which takes us to fiscal year end June 30.  If the layoff rolls into June, then technically it will not be effective until after fiscal year end.  So the June date does not make sense.

Although, the shear size of the impending layoffs will inhibit them from transpiring all in one day.  They will happen in different areas at different times.

It would be helpful for people to post timelines of the current goings on in different offices to help associates understand what is transpiring, real time, rather complaining about their managers in every post.  The points are valid but really take away from the usefullness of this bullitin board.

I think it will happen before June also.  The fact that they say it will be 'done' by June 30th and the affected employees will still be paid for 30 days.  It will have to be before June 1 in my opinion.  I don't think they want the payroll to carry over to the new fiscal year.

based on "searchanalytics.compete.com" the average serch for Capital Group layoffs directs 3,729 people to this web sit. What happens when the second round comes and everyone is notified by our emergency response system, designed for ER events not to lay off ee's...wow

3,729 people per month

Michael,

If you give in to fear, if you aren't able to do these simple and ordinary things, the terrorists have won...

[ c:

we just had a 5 point earthquake in california...just lay me off please!!!!!!!!!!!!! Or let me know...I am leaving on the edge already... I should seek medical condition!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That 5.0 quake was an omen of things to come...

Did that group of associates who were gaming on the CG network ever get canned?

micheal after friday we can still post at coffee shops and libraries, friends computers correct. Also, we can always direct others to this web site by informing the Wall Street Journal etc...to bring attention to our issues. The reason I ask is becuase they will delay the layoffs until after Friday. Why layoff when you can fire.

Micheal please provide step by step how to go about the changes.., I have worked so long for CG and I love the company but we all pay a price and one is our ability to speak freely. What should we do...what can we do?

1)  Despite the fact CG's online policy is about as thick as a slice of prosciutto,  it is primarly an "at will employment," company for associates.  I know no one has been / will be careless enough to post from the corporate network but keep in mind the watchers ARE watching.

2)  I don't think management will start throwing baseless accusations around because that would be a privacy lawyer's wet dream.  Familiarize yourself with the Electronic Frontier Foundation just in case.

Michael - you can't make your change on Friday.  You guys didn't submit your server change notice and have it approved.  I'm afraid you guys might incur the wrath of ITILO.  The only way you can do it now is to pay homage and vow to devote all of your precious work time to ITILO and his meddlesome twin-headed cousin ECMSES.

I'm just sayin ...

What are you referring to?  Not too sure what this recent thread is related to.  Is it related to people blogging from work?  I am assuming so.

Uhh... Michael does NOT work for CG.

He is talking about upgrading the server this website is hosted on.  CG does not own any part of this site.

To make it clear: This website is NOT hosted by CG!  

And another note: How many of you were dumb enough to visit this site at work, let alone post a negative comment?   Yes, HR is aware this site exists and they are watching for those who access this site from work.  

Why don't they just block the site?  Read below...



Now, for the tinfoil hat wearing crowd...

This site (twilightpad.com) was registered by proxy.  This means we cannot easily look up who the real owner/register of this site is.

Some say CG paid some one or some company late last year to bring this site online so they can use it to bait those would would post our internal memo's or private data onto the web.  When the first memo regarding layoffs went out, it got posted to the web.  CG couldn't find out who did it and that didn't go over well AT ALL!

So, this time around, they brought this site to life, made it the 'official' unofficial site to bash CG so that those who want to leak confidential information would most likely do so on this site, where upon they can capture their IP address and, eventually, prosecute the leaker.

To those who think they are safe because they post from home, let me ask:  How many of you use that same internet connection to connect to cganywhere or our vpn?  Yeah... they got your IP and initials, buddy!  (but again, only if they secretly own this site should you be worried).

Then again, I'm sure I've heard wrong so don't give it another thought...

only if all the "associates" were this vocal within the organization, it would be a better place to work at... but of course the skirts run it... so.. most of you hide under them? .. all talk.. no action... i guess those who do get the axe won't survive elsewhere either... 

"Did that group of associates who were gaming on the CG network ever get canned?"

No, they are now domain admins with the CG server team.

Be very, very afraid.

http://www.allbusiness.com/north-america/united-states-california-metro-areas/1151836-1.html


arrogance...

Do you think these threads will have any effect on whether CG will rank in the top again this year?

Dear no place to hide,

I formally announce my agreement with your statement, "If all the "associates" were this vocal within the organization, it would be a better place to work..." and I'd like to make a comment, if I may.

To you and any of you currently employed by CG:

Stop keeping your mouth shut and start conversations! Maintaining a low profile is one of CG's hallmarks and I understand all too well how difficult it is to figure out the balance between speaking up and maintaining that "low profile". In an environment such as ours, the biggest key to your success is saying something when things aren't quite right. It matters not whether it's a processing issue, availability issue, or any other product of SHSV. 

Stop biting your toungue and SPEAK OUT. CG doesn't want mindless lemmings as their charge. They want people who can figure out and maintain the balance of the company's ideals and each individual's ideal. 

Why is this so hard to understand? 

SHSV is what it is because WE make it this way. The only way to change things, and make things better is to take a good hard look at yourself and decide whether or not it's important to YOU as an INDIVIDUAL to contribute whatever you can to move upwards and onwards. Don't worry about everyone else because this decision is only enforceable BY YOU on a personal level. 

There are those of us who have already made a committment to stay strong and carry on. It's not hard to recognize us. 

Join in the discussion! Create your own dialogue! And for goodness sakes find a way to make your OWN contribution! Your own mark! I know you can do it!

I hope my desperation translates the way I'm intending. I'm not trying to chastise. I'm trying to convince all of you SHSV associates to step up and take charge of anything and everything you can. 

Am I asking too much?

In response to the above comment, the minute you "speak up" about anything within American Funds you will notice that management starts finding little faults with you, watch you like Big Brother and make your life a living hell until you bail.  That is what happened to me.  I was *and am* a hard worker, but when I vocalized any sort of opinion about anything, I was squashed immediately.  
I don't play the dog and pony show--that is why I left.

Funny,

There is a difference between raising your voice in contribution and simply raising your voice.

I will not attempt to dispute your work manner, being a hard worker you may very well be, but take an honest look at not only what you were voicing but also what you were voicing as a solution. 

Were you giving alternatives? Where you formulating your own solution and presenting it to others so they could make a firm agreement or argument? Were you open to a difference of opinion? Were you okay with seeing the bigger picture? Even if that meant that what you were voicing may have very well been valid, but just not able for implementation at *that* particular point in time?

I question whether I even need to say this or not, because it seems you've made up your mind about how it "really" was. But can you sit there and say what you do knowing that your intentions weren't self-serving? If you can approach the situation honestly, and you were still railroaded out the door then I sincerely apologize. Not for my own actions, but the reactions you were given.

If you could have only seen that there are those of us who DO what you say you've done. What's the difference then between what you *did* and what *I* (and so many others) do? 

I'm afraid I am unable to answer that question. But I hope that personally, you can. 

I am glad the corp culture of American Funds suits some people...and hopefully, there are some people there that actually like their jobs.  
All I know is for the duration of my time there ( 1 & 1/2 yrs), I met with nothing but hypocracy, brown-nosing, and what felt like Nazi Germany.  Not to mention the worst micro-management I have ever experienced.  I am glad to be free of it:  a place where I can now make decisions like the college-educated person that I am, and dont have to raise my hand for every little detail throughout the day for a TM to make a "business decision" for me.  
Work should be productive, of course... but, to help with morale, management should be a lot less stiff.  For example, when making a small joke about a source being scanned upside down...I got pulled aside and punished.  I thought I lived in America.  my comment was non-offensive.  I am sorry to offend, but I do feel like if you want to fit in there, you sort of have to be brain washed.  So.. no judgements here, but, I personally do not feel like I fit in at ALL.  Perhaps that is why, toward the end, they hunt and pecked for my worst calls during my team meetings, etc.  Way to go Management!!  Way to boost morale!  Soooo sooooooo glad to be GONE!!!

Funny,

Again I will apologize for the actions of those in "authority" who have absolutely no idea what they are doing. I have the unfortunate opportunity of having to interact with a specific TM who sounds very much like what you described. To put it mildly, she's an idiot and it's incredibly bizarre that she's even a TM at this point but I do not have a say in the matter so I refuse to push the issue. I'm still learning how to pick my battles. That being said, I will share however, that I've given this same opinion to my own TM who shares the same sentiments. It's a mutual understanding we have. 

There will always be those people who slip through the cracks and wind up in positions they have no business stepping into. 2 years ago (speaking of the same TM) I personally witnessed her NF team fail almost 100% when it came time for NF "graduation". If they didn't leave CG, they moved to another team. Those that stayed, and moved to the management of another TM almost 100% thrived. And this same pattern has been repeatedly demonstrated. It boggles my mind. 

But this only proves my point. Some of the SHSV TMs are so brainless/spineless/ridiculous/etc, I can't begin to fathom how they could be kept around while my head is on the chopping block. 

It's tough. But that's the way it is and I've come to the realization that there isn't a damn thing I can do about it. 

YET.

If I am lucky enough to stay (because I *truly* want to be here) I will simply continue to excel so that my performance outshines those around me, TMs included.

This isn't about brown-nosing, or ass kissing, or sucking up. I wake up every morning excited about what I get to do. And being so petty as to feel the need to create a conversation with an associate to discuss how wrong it is to laugh at how something was scanned is effing stupid and a complete waste of time. It's hard for me to even begin to understand why that would even be necessary but I don't doubt what you are saying. 

Again, I apologize for the actions of a few, but don't let that persuade your opinion of the many. 

In closing though, you've hit the mark with your statement, "I can now make decisions like the college-educated person that I am, and dont have to raise my hand for every little detail throughout the day for a TM to make a "business decision" for me.". 

That's exactly what I mean when I say, ask forgiveness, not permission. *wink* 

"For example, when making a small joke about a source being scanned upside down...I got pulled aside and punished."

Wow.  Just wow.

Well, thanks for your comment.  I think you are blessed to find something you enjoy--that is a rare thing these days.  I met a few managers while at Cap Group (maybe one or two) that were good leaders... the rest....CLUELESS.  Not the foggiest idea what motivates people, etc.  I hope that the RIGHT people choose who gets laid off and who stays, because it should not count on how well you are buddy-buddy with someone but rather your skills and your work ethic.  While I was there, neither was rewarded and I felt unfulfilled to say the least.  I was miserable.  If Cap Group was more selective with the hiring of management (including management's treatment of subordinates) ---the same selectiveness they use to hire regular associates, perhaps they would spare themselves all of this embarassing commentary.  Hopefully more managers there will learn how to motivate people (hint, not through scare tactics and humiliation)... Good luck to ya there :)

Funny, 

I can assure you that there *are* many managers (TM, Sr, and otherwise) that are incredible at CG. I have had the pleasure of working with several. I hold out hope that those who are let go "deserve" it because there are so many in SHSV that not only want to stay but should.

And I am truly sorry you didn't get to experience that, because it is incredible and is worth mentioning and preserving. 

Can anyone please  describe how the layoffs are handled on the specific day?  Are you invited to a meeting?  Are you stopped at the door upon arrival?  Do you sit all day waiting to be unknowingly called upon?  What do they do?

I can verify "Funny's" experience is true, as I worked in the same area as the poster.

I myself had several similar incidents that happened. 

One in particular, I made a comment in a "transitional interview" about my previous TM, and that I felt that they did not have my best interests at heart and that I was glad to be able to move departments. I relayed a comment that I had heard from another TM who told me to be careful with my TM, as she was fond of badmouthing me around the site. Instead of caring about the actual situation, all they cared about was finding out who told me. 

As another poster stated, HR likes to try to ask and phrase questions that back you into a corner. I had an "impromptu" meeting that they called with a Senior Manager, let's call him "Dandy Bored", the HR manager, and another manager. They started this tactic with me, only it did not work. Dandy's face was so beet red by the end of this meeting I thought that he was either going to have a stroke or hit me, either of which would have made my day. He was sitting inches away from me, trying to be intimidating, which, I actually told him at one point that I wasn't the rest of the people there and that he did not intimidate me at all. He is used to walking around hitting on all of the young cute girls there, and throwing his "muscle" around.  They must have phrased "Who told you" 50 different ways, to, at one point, I even stated that "No matter how many ways you ask me, I will not tell you who told me." I even volunteered that they could fire me, so I could get Unemployment and they would be rid of me, which they declined to do. This meeting continued for about an hour, at which point they sent me back to my seat with a "We'll be in touch". 

In some aspects, CG is a good place to work. Good pay, good benefits. It is more of a place where you will do well if you can follow the goosestepping ahead of you. Kind of like the Germans did as they marched the Jews into the ovens.

What is even funnier, is that I work with someone at my current job, who worked at CG for three days and has several hilarious stories about what happened to her in her brief time there. 

To ask for forgivemess..

The Posters sin was making a joke that the people scanning the documents must not have had their coffee yet because they were scanned in upside down. A total joke, as everyone in SHSV has had this issue, and it is something that is easily fixed. 

That is more the issue, that you can't even make a joking comment around there without someone pulling you aside and talking to you about it. 

It happened to myself, because when someone asked me how I was doing in the morning, I stated "I'm here". Big whoop. I am not a morning person, and it was said in a joking manner, but this turned into "You are being negative." I am sorry I didn't bring a bucket of confetti to toss around like I am Rip Torn. Maybe I should have brought a Kazoo and some Silly String. 

My TM is a complete idiot, recently just started cut and pasting SONI when sending emails. Yet, they still don't make sense...I just go along with it. Was an idiot, IS an idiot, and unless goes to college at least for a 2yr degree will continue to be an idiot. 

Just two more weeks and CG needs CHANGE!!!!!!!!!!

You must have had the same TM I had. She had an IQ that even Forrest Gump would laugh at. I always wondered how she got the job... She had nice lips, and was probably cute in her younger days, so I put 2+2 together on that one. She was probably one of "Dandy's" many conquests. 

You would ask her a question, but, instead of answering the question, she would ask questions about the details of your question, and never actually answer the question, all the while the poor customer/broker would be on hold listening to whatever schlock we had on. 

Say for example, you would ask "Well, this person is an extremely good customer, we made a mistake, which I can see, they are a bit mad about this, and they want to do XXXX. I think it would be a good decision." Now frankly, I believe that, if I need to "bend the rules" a bit, I should not have to go plead my case, as if rules are rules, we should just follow them, and not have to ask someone's opinion who has the faintest idea of what you are asking. 

However, instead of answering yes, no, maybe so.. She would sit and ask maddening questions such as:

"Well, why is he mad?" (I already explained it)

"You shouldn't assume they are upset, XXXXXXXXX. That is negative. When you say upset, how can you tell?"  (Ummm.. he's screaming at me and telling me he's upset)

When you say good customer, what do you mean? (Ummm.. been with us for years and has a million dollars with us)

Is he willing to fax something? (Of course he is, duh!)

What do you think we should do? (I already told you, if you would stop chewing on your cud for a moment you cow, maybe you'd have heard me the first time)

Or, everyones # 1 hit... "What did/does/could/would/should Soni Say?" (You dumb cumguzzlinggutterslut, it says I need a TM approval, why do you think I am here!!!!"

We should develop a bracelet or shirts that say  W.W.S.D on them and sell them in the parking lots on Layoff day!

"Mattos-The Freshmaker " are you in BRO? I think we have the same TM? My favorit is when she asks a question I respond the same way "what does SONI say?" It feels so good!!!!!!! Priceless....goodtimes....goodtimes.

Indeed, oh I love the "what did SONI say" answer when SONI says nothing about it.  And I don't think I have enough fingers and toes to count how many times they took my question and asked various unimportant questions to try and cover the fact they did not know.
Thankfully, I have been away from American Funds for long enough to forget many of the small, specific, daily instances of how and why the job sucked... but, (this is directed to Norma above)... perhaps I (and we) could have had a more enjoyable time if we did bring silly string to work everyday :-)  
Ahh, if I only had an inch of silly string for every time I felt like an army ant marching while I worked at HRO, the string would probably reach BRO

K - so no slicing of cabesas and appendages on this one.  Rumormill has it that the "Day of Reckoning" approacheth.  So let me pass on some a bit of perspective from the unemployment front lines.  

1 - There are jobs, but it is an employer's market so expect to compete and you may not hear back immediately.

2 - Whatever negative experience you've had with CG, don't take it into your next interview(s).  It's not worth it and may result in you not getting the job.

3 - Shit happens.  Some days are good, some days are bad.  There are a lot of people around the country going thru the same thing.  Don't waste energy if you are let go.  Find a good outlet (exercise, gardening, pr0n) to get rid of stress and the doldrums.  If this is going to be a defining moment in your life, try to turn it into a positive one.

4 - You may be caught up in the moment so if you think you may get axed, write down whatever questions you have [now] and keep them readily available at your desk.  

5 - Keep your fingers crossed and hope that it is the mf next to you who gets called.  Just joking - pray that it's the person who lets out the silent farts right after lunch    :-)

I can assure you that "the freshmaker" is not in BRO... but, I can tell you after reading all of these posts, it seems the problems with management is not just in BRO, HRO, or SNO.. it is company-wide.  Apparently in the management training handbook some of the rules are:  in response to a question, ask two slightly unrelated questions and alternate with "what did SONI say"... lose all sense of humor....make sure to waste a few hrs per day on personal talk with your fellow managers, meanwhile make sure your worker bees are slavin' away....once someone speaks their mind, make sure to badger them until they want to quit since you don't have a reason to fire them....  

Yaaa- I was referring to HRO. Unless, of course, she relocated there. 

I recently had a financial advisor call me at home regarding why I and other associates have not been  avl etc. He has my home number because we have worked together for several years and thru life events have communicated on personal level but always prof. I explained in limited words aqbout mytime and that lay offs were coming but his wholesaler had also mentioned future layoffs. Regardless of what I have experienced with CG and have posted I still made CG sound great... no regrets, I would be embarrassed if he found out about this web site. It's our dirty laundry for the world to read.

and I am no angel I post under any name I can!

you brought back a memory....in the beginning you could joke around with your boss, everyone knew you were just kidding around... before i left, I can't even remember what i said, but a TM in training was facilitating our meeting... this was in 2008.. she tattled on my "negativity"..i think i said "why do they...yada yada yada"...was just a joke.. my real TM took me aside later and mentioned it...I thought, oh brother here i go, blacklisted.... then a few weeks later.. I had asked my TM about her rotating to other role, as they usually do, shuffling TM's around, she said "Oh, they don't ask you, they TELL you..."  hahaha, hardy har har.... my own TM said a "joke" but I cant???!!!!  aaaarrrrgghhhh this irritated me so much.....  and to ask forgiveness: I did mention something about a TM who obviously picked on people, would raise her voice at that "assigned" person in front of others, embarrasing her.. when she begged the SrMgr to be moved to other team she was turned down and she applied for other position she didn't even like, she just went for it to get out..then she eventually left.  after she left team, TM started picking on me all the time... she had other associates talk to Sr. Mgrs about her behavior towards them (all female btw) and NOTHING WAS EVER DONE ABOUT IT.  they talked to her and she of course gave her brown-nose talk..."oh, I didn't know I was having that kind of effect, what can i do to fix it?"  then she was promoted shortly thereafter... 
personally, brown-nosing doesn't fit me well.

This is funny.. I remember this associate I thought was NO good but then again I am an ee like everyone else... I saw her name on the CG newletter and I thought she was FIRED. For like 10 minutes we went back and forth about her being a better candidate in a diff company..dept...etc nice to have met you. The joke is she was promoted to a TM. The stories are never ending the joke is always the same!!!!!! NOT good

To heehee:  well, at least you had the chance to joke in the beginning-- at HRO, they acted like machines I'd say about a month into the 6 month training.  I was called out during training for empathizing for the poor folk who had to arrive to scan documents at 4am.  I made a "funny" not directed at anyone and laughed when I said maybe that is why sources were sometimes scanned upside down:  I know I would not be able to function at 4am!  Anyhow, I was pulled aside for the first time that day.. and it continued for a year and a half till I quit... and it only got worse.  Once they blacklist you, you might as well start lookin' for a job.. sure, they dont have any grounds to fire you, but they will be "watching" your every move and you will have to walk on eggshells for the duration of your stay at the American Funds.  I said it before and I will say it again, if you dont mind kissing tail to make it through the day then A.Funds is right up your alley (just like 90% of corp america)... if not, be like me:  think about doing something you might REALLY enjoy :D

I have already ordered a few dozen shirts 'What would SONI say" for the managers that are laid off (of course, the ones who deserve to be laid off).  I will hand it to them at the door of my current Company when they try to get hired there.

hey there CG
whats it like in Irvine city
im a thousand miles away
but today you look so pretty sad
yes you do
unemployement lines can't shine as bright as you
i swear its true

hey there CG
dont you worry about the layoffs
im right there if you get sued
give this song another listen
close your eyes
listen to my voice its my disguise
im by your side

oh its what you do to me (keep us waiting)
oh its what you do to me (lie)
oh its what you do to me (layoff)
what you do to me


a thousand miles seems pretty far
but they've got planes and trains and cars
Like my commute


hey there CG
you be good and dont you miss me
two more years and you'll need me, again
and ill be makin history like i do
you know its all because of you
we can do whatever we want to
hey there CG heres to you
this ones for you

I know IRV, BRO, SNO, HRO have posted on this site. To confirm is anyone from LAO, IND, or PHO. Where is PHO??

We all have to be on board for the big pow wow, chances are it won't be the same day and IND/HRO are on the East coast if it is.... let's work as a team.

I was spending the day at CG today viewing my favorite porn sites.  I am running out of room on my laptop since I have downloaded some many adult movies.  If I get fired, will CG give me time to transfer my collection?   

LA has definately posted.  What pow wow are to talking about?  Is it the lay off?  What date is it?

I have a theory that it will be done next week.  Unless they want all the impacted associates to roll over into the next fiscal year then its needs to be done by June first so that we have our notification date and thirty days later our actual separation date.  If they don't do it by then wouldn't all those associates fall into the next fiscal year?  That is just my thought.  

I definitely think it will be next Friday or the following Monday.  That will have given them the 30 day notice, than they'd pay us out the other 30 days.  Also, looking HRO DSSS's calendar (our GM), every single day she has meetings, EXCEPT that Monday (the 1st of June).  Coincidence?  I think not.  Also that Thursday preceeding that she has a cross site conference call with GM's of all the sites (not something that normally happens - I checked her weeks in the past).  Also, that Monday would make sense since 4 x 10 teams will be at work, so they wouldn't have to call them to give them the news.  I'm counting on it being that day!  

PHO is Phoenix.  And I'm sure there are some IND'ers here.

I'm in HRO, and I will for SURE post on here as soon as I can get to it (not from work, if I'm not laid off).

I'm SO excited.  I'm hoping I'm one of them!  Seriously.  I'm ready for something new.  So getting to start over and getting my MRP and a severance will be nice.  

All I can say is be prepared for the people that are worried about the future.  Many people seem to hate their jobs here at AFS and should probably think about looking elsewhere if it makes you that unhappy. But there are many people that will loose their jobs that enjoy working for the company and need the income and benefits that the company offers.  So what I would suggest is for the people that are worried they could be impacted to please look at doing the following:
1. Look at other jobs in your area to see what options you have.
2. Get your resume updated.
3. Prepare your family members with what could happen.
4. Find out if your insurance has anything to help assist you if you are laid off.
5. Review and make sure that you understand everything in the severance.
6. Don't let all the negativity scare the hell out of you. 

This is for the people who are coming here hoping to feel better or find out what others are doing to prepare for what could happen.  

We are the only ones that control the situations we are in.  If we don't like it then do something about it and find something that you do like.
  

How many associates in SHSV do you think they will lay off (or what percentage)? 

I am so tired of waiting...I  wish they'd just get it over with. The not knowing is the hardest part. 

I completely agree, be prepared!  I've had my resume updated for a while now and have been searching jobs here and there, but nothing serious.  After the layoffs happen I will.  I'm not totally dissatisfied with CG, but not totally satisfied, so will be looking elsewhere, whether I'm laid off or not.

And yup, we are the masters of our own universe!  If you don't like a situation, change it!  

How many - I agree.  I'm SO tired of waiting.  I'm totally guessing at least 25-35% I think they'll let go.  There have been days I look around my floor and there will be like maybe 20 people in each quad total, due to mytime, and approved vacation.  I remember when I used to look and there practically wouldn't be a single empty cubicle.  

I will say, sometimes, getting laid off can be the best thing that can ever happen to you.

It forces you to seek a change.

A lot of people are just "there" at any job.

You may discover that, once laid off, you will have to leave your comfort zone and explore new opportunities and challenges.

You can do it!

Oh believe me, I saw this coming awhile ago (as I think most of us did) and my resume is ready.  I've also been back in school for awhile, working toward something entirely different that will provide me with stability and $$$$.  I'll never want for a job once I finish this program. 

I do like CG, and I do like my TM and SrMgr.  I really don't have any complaints about CG and have not seen any of the negative things others have mentioned.  I've been around for several years.  While I was never planning on staying forever, I value and appreciate my time at CG, the friends I've made, and the things I've learned.

Attention all of you posters here.  We know who you are.  After you all are fired I will personaly strip search you in front of three witnesses and a Rabbi or Priest.  One of the witnesses is going to be my cousin.  He just likes seeing people naked.      

For the terms of this web site, I mean layoffs as "pow wow" sorry the term started on another thread.

I think alot of people will be let go just based on the numbers..you figure we took approx 18k calls Thurs 5/21/09. Each associate is on the phones approx 4 hrs lets say they take 10 calls per hr, total 40 per day. divide 40 into 18k equals 450 associates that is sno alone we have 5 other sites. Thats just the phone calls coming in, processing is 25% down as well. I and another associate between both of us today 5/22/09 took 25 calls total. Lets be realistic

Any comments on my thought process?

ok, well... I think including AFD and other departments impacted I guess and this is just a guess 2000 associates across sites.

Can someone from IND and someone from PHO confirm they have posted on here and are from those sites?

LAO confirmed... need to hear from IND and PHO?

PHO we need you on this web site! I think IND has posted but not sure.

I can not believe that this is dragging on and on...it's torcher. I want to be laid off I have been there for 15+ years and just want this to end. I love cg but I am at a point where it's time to part. I do not want to endure this crap for another minute. I beg let us know asap, it is inconsiderate to send an email and then attempt to continue business a usual when it's not!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am not employed at CG(SNO) but all of this whining and bashing on TM's is ridiculous.  95% of the time those that are whining or complaining are poor performers and either on the verge of getting terminated or just suck as an employee.  You should quit, leave the company, CG owes you nothing, they should fire you so they do not have to waste their money to pay you a severence, and give the good people they are keeping a raise.  Yes, I am sure that there are some bad managers, but that is everywhere, your job as an employee is just to work with what you have and do the job that is expected of you.  I am a manager for another big compay in the S.A area that has also been impacted by lay-offs, more than once even, and I bet people like yourself will be whining and complaining no matter what company you move on to.  So do yourself a favor and quit and give some other company the displeasure of having you as a disgruntled employee and give the good people of CG a chance to make better money and work for a company they like.

I am in IND

Still waiting to hear from PHO... every site has confirmed except for PHO.

Can someone who knows an associate in PHO, on a personal level get the word out to them about this web site. We need to have all sites working together so that we know what's going on when the layoffs start. 

I would hope after 15+ year working you would know how to spell torture, who does CG hire, hs drop outs?

Michael since the web site was brought down this morining...were their any changes we should know about?

"asdfjk" I guess you don't post much, it's about content not spelling. You knew what i ment and that's enough.. I am not writing a letter, i am psoting on a web site dumbass

sorry michael I was trying to access the web site thru my cell phone and it said the web site could not be accessed. so I thought it was brought down for maint but I think there are just too many post and I can't access the web site by my cell any loger. So please disregard my previous question. Thanks

The site was down last night

I'm in IRV and let a PHO assoc know about this site about 2 weeks ago. 
You know the IT dept in PHO has to relocate to SNO or IRV?!  Sad cuz some of them just recently transferred TO PHO and purchased homes....really sucks for them.  And sucks for those IT associates who's true home is AZ.  They either relocate or take a chance at losing their job.

Thanks "PHO" thank you for your post..I agree it's sad for the IT dept in PHO. Let's continue to work together and keep posting. It's almost over....

What Twitter account? How would I find it???

I'm ready
I'm ready for the laughing gas
I'm ready
I'm ready for what's next
I'm ready to duck
I'm ready to dive
I'm ready to say
I'm glad to be alive
I'm ready
I'm ready for the push

I'm ready
I'm ready for the gridlock
I'm ready...to take it to the street
I'm ready for the shuffle
Ready for the deal
Ready to let go of the steering wheel
I'm ready
Ready for the crush

I love you, BONO!!!

No word on the exact date of the layoffs?

I used to work at PHO-I quit quite some time ago and trust me all the PHO people are really worried-I still have some friends there. They are all counting the days and minutes just like the rest of you. IMHO PHO and in a business minded way, PHO was the last building established (last hired, first fired). The newly acquired second building is being shut down I think. I left more than a year ago because I didn't like the way it was run. I had one minor situation and my TM was on my every move. I couldn't breathe or do anything, I had to leave and couldn't take it anymore. But FTR I think that CG is a good company that try to make its employees as complacent as possible. They were open to new opinions and suggestions but it was all grouped into a nameless faceless thing. The only people who really get ahead are the ass kissers and that is the truth. If you are looking for a job that has real growth potential you may wan to get out of there. You may want to get some experience or licensing at one of the fund companies and see if you can parlay that into a better position with the company after a few years. I am still young (thankfully) and have moved on to greener pastures.  

IND is here too.  There are rumors all over the place in SHSV and lots of things posted here.  Who knows?  All I know is I'm going fishing.  There is nothing any of us can do about it.

If you want to make a career and learn cutting edge things, CGC is not the place. If you want a job and just want to work for some dumb ass who does not know what is he or she talking, this is the best place to work. Have you guys ever noticed how ignorant and clueless most of the managers are here. I however think that leaders do see that bid disconnect and may be that is the reason that this may be used as an opportunity to clean the house and get the right people in the right roles.

Do you think CG announced the layoffs so far in advance to have people quit prior to the layoff?  Do you think the numbers  are not met so they are prolonging the layoffs? 

Food for thought.

How does being fired vs. laid off affect your severance package?  If HR says resign or we will fire you, does anyone have some good advice?  Thanks!

Don't resign, you want unemployment benefits don't you?  Let them fire you.  If you are fired, not likely that you will be receiving a severance package.

@Worried in SNO

If you were to be told to "resign or we'll fire you", wouldn't it seem strange that you would actually be given a choice and are not simply fired? My conclusion would be that there must at least one or more reasons that are beneficial to THE COMPANY as to why they don't just fire you, and it may be for any of the following reasons or some others that may not be obvious if you don't know employment law:

that they are not actually legally able to fire you;
that it will cost them more money for unemployment taxes if they fire you;
that they are hoping you will resign and save them additional severance costs besides their unemployment taxes;

If you are seriously concerned, then please consult an attorney in your state of employment in advance to see what legal recourse you have and which choice you should make if you are presented with this ultimatum.

If they fire you, you can still get unemployment benefits.  CG would have to contest the claim for unemployment.  And they have to tell you why they're firing you.  If it's not for something that fits into the category of gross negligence (or whatever the actual name is), you should be ok. 

How do I know?  I was fired before and still collected unemployment benefits. The reason for my dismissal was "not a good fit", but nothing where I did something wrong that was documented as gross negligence.

always let them fire you if presented with that option.

The reason they tell you that, is so that you will quit and they won't have to pay up.

Happened to me once before, I said, you'll have to fire me. Guess what? They never did. 

I was told by a reliable source that on Monday or Tuesday at SNO there will be local police stationed at CG should anything flare up.  What does that tell you guys here.  The day of reckoning is coming starting on Monday.

The police will be there?  So let me get this straight - the laid off associates are to be treated as threatening criminals?  This is how CG treats the associates being let go?  Is this CG's "respect" and "sensitivity" in action?  The powers that be should seriously think about this before they do something like that - if anyone is going to do anything stupid, its because CG management drove them to it.  No doubt the layoffs are at this point going to happen no matter what, but again, ***the company is still profitable even without the layoffs*** - if management fears that criminal acts will result from their actions, then why don't they simply not take these actions, which again are unnecessary.        

Also, if you do get fired all you have to do is go to a temp agency and get a job for one day and then you can legally collect unemployement once they do not call you for the second day...and most don't. You can even call edd and ask it is legal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everyone bring your camera's and take pics from cell's etc. CG is one of the top mutual fund companies of the world. Maybe one of our own pics will make headlines in the Wall Street Journal ...or Time Magazine. Yaaa souds bad but if it pays the bills for one month...and cg wants to turn the lay offs into a circus, why not.

Imagin BRO/IRV police depts outside, TV camera crew like they covered Mercury's layoffs in BRO... people leaving the building or maybe not wanting to leave becuase of the media and people sitting in cars taking pics...uhm

This is rediculous.  We are going to be escorted out like criminals?  I was told that in Feb 09, they had armed security on the floor you were called to.  Imagine that.  Do they frisk you too??  What a way to go.........................I am so mentally drained from this process.  I would actually be relieved if they called me in as this waiting is driving me crazy.

its not uncommon for employees under stress to "go postal" in any company, gov agency, high school or university. So while it's humiliating to be escorted out like a criminal, I don't want to get killed by some lunatic disgruntled ex-employee with a short fuse.  regardless if I was fired or one of the "lucky" people that is kept on the payroll, I would hope they have armed guard. preferably if they were low-key, not all out SWAT team.  This job is not worth losing my life. Especially in Texas where it's legal to have a gun in your car.  At the SNO office lobby entrance, there is a sign that states: no weapons allowed.   That was scary when I read it.  

of course CG is doing this to reduce liability, media risk, image reputation (grass is greener campaign bullshit, best places to work garbage)   not that there is anything wrong with that (Seinfeld joke reference).  

Have you seen Kathy Bates in Fred Green Tomatoes? where she goes nuts in the parking lot and smashes someone's car on purpose...  I don't want that to happen to my car or when I'm walking to my car.  

yes its sad, and humiliating, but I'm sort of glad they are planning on having armed guard.  I know of one guy that I'm sure will get the axe, and he will flip out, guaranteed.   If I see him make sudden moves, I'm gonna yell out for the cops.

Well HR and IT, your "prophecies" did not pan out. I really hoped that you were right about last Thursday and Friday, but you weren't. I am sick of listening to people like you who say that "it is going to happen" on this date only to see that date go by in the rearview mirror with nothing happening. Instead of listening to rumors, let's get the facts straight:

FACT: The layoffs will happen by June 30th.

FACT: Layoffs will affect many people in AFS.

FACT: People in AFS are shitting in their pants waiting for this to happen.

FACT: CG is still turning a good profit and the market seems to be turning around, but layoffs are still going to happen.

FACT: Who ever said that there is going to be "police presence" in SNO is full of crap. CG is not going to call the cops in for potential backup. If someone becomes violent or threatening, they will most likely lose their severance. This will NOT happen. CG associates are not that stupid. 

FACT: No one on this blog has any credible evidence of when "it" is going to happen.

FACT: Anyone thinking that people are being targeted because of FMLA is crazy. Everyone is being QAP'd.

FACT: CG will do everything in their power to avoid a lawsuit. Their lawyers are plentiful and are paid well enough to know what they are doing.

FACT: Regardless of what anyone thinks, CG is still a great place to work and will be for years to come.

FACT: The person that wants to have associates take pictures of people walking out the door after being laid off is an idiot. They can try all they want, but the NY Times or Time Magazine will NOT pick up a story like this. Thousands of Americans are laid off every day. Why would this be something "special" or "newsworthy"? CG already has enough of a low profile and the majority of American's do not even know who American Funds are. This is NOT a story.

FACT: I wish everyone the best of luck with the upcoming layoffs. This is a rough time in the economy and unfortunately things like this have to happen, even in the CG world that we have come to love. The world in CG as we know it will change forever. People in SHSV, AFD, and other departments are going to have to adjust to the changes. I hope and pray that everything works out after the smoke clears.

Hey- to all of the people on here that are calling out names and initials.....STOP!!!

For the record, I am not a TM or Sr. Manager. I am just an ordinary SHSV associate who happens to love CG. A lot of you guys are making disrespectful and immature comments towards the TM's and Sr. Managers. Just because you don't like someone personally does not mean that they are a bad person. Yes, it is your opinion, but keep it to yourself. I know that a lot of TM's are on this blog reading what is being said. To "call them out" is just wrong. This site is not about calling out individuals, it's about what's happening with the layoffs. If you have a problem with your TM or Sr. Manager, work it out on your own. Don't belittle people who obviously can't reply to you without suffering major consequences. While you may think they are stupid or an "ass", we all know that there is two sides to every story. Yes, maybe there are some bad apples in the bunch, but the majority of them are on your side and are good people. I personally really enjoy my TM and think that they are fun to work with. It's all about your attitude. If you have a bad attitude towards them, then you will be miserable. Yeah, maybe you don't like it, but if you don't, then find another job!!! If you think that you are all that, then go find a job where you can be a manager. Stop complaining because I am sick of it. I know I speak for the majority of the readers here on this board when I say that. Anyone complaining should be let go or should quit. Capital Group certainly does not want people to work for them who are against the company and it's employees. 

Please sing along if you know this Third Eye Blind song:

I'm only pretty sure that I can't take anymore
Before you lay us off
I wonder
What are you doing this for
When you say out loud
You want to get out of this
I wonder
Is there anything I'm going to miss
I wonder How it's going to be
When you don't you have me
How's it going to be
When you know I'm not there
How's it going to be
When there is no one to talk to shareholders, 
between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
Where we used to help the company
Now you have fucked us all
Yeah, you let us take a fall
Something I can't ignore
Like...
The cubicles by the doorway we spent time in
Sit empty, don't see money signs like last year when it was always
about to hit
me
I wonder how's it going to be when it goes down
Hows it going to be
When I'm not around
Hows it going to be
When you found out there was nothing
Between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be

Name Calling.. Waaaaaaaaaa

You are probably one of the people that has been called out.

And, how do you know it isn't another TM or Mgr posting those things. I know for a fact that at least 4 names or initials posted were by a TM. How? I posted them, and I am a TM.

So, suck it. 

Just like YOU expressed YOUR opinion, we are free to express OURS.  So STFU.  If you don't like to read it, than DON'T READ!!  

Things said here about other people are the same things that are whispered around the lunch tables, or whispered desk side.  This is nothing new, just nice to be able to vent about it.

And maybe some of the people that it is about will read it and GET A CLUE about themselves.  I hope so!

I know for a fact my Senior Manager reads this blog, she's told our TM that, who told us!  *Waves!*  So I hope she reads what was written about some of the associates who work for her, and maybe she'll be a little more open minded and look past their kiss assing and start seeing them for what they really are, as everyone else sees them.

"Things said here about other people are the same things that are whispered around the lunch tables, or whispered desk side."

Yes, because you and everyone like you whose posting here won't man up and tell your TM or SM directly these things you're posting here.  That's why you resort to childish gossip at lunch tables, desk side, and on Twilight Pad.  If something bothers you, tell them.  

I mean, you "hope she reads what was written about some of the associates who work for her, and maybe she'll be a little more open minded and look past their kiss assing and start seeing them for what they really are, as everyone else sees them".  If these things really bother you, and that's really what you want to have happen, then why are you relying on "hope" and some random chance that she might read TwilightPad and know who you're talking about? Tell her straight up and maybe she'll listen to what you have to say.  

Um, yah, sure, I'm going to tell my TM, or other TM's what I think of them, to their face. NOT.  DUMBASS.  Even if they say there isn't reprisal, I'm not dumb enough to risk it!!  You are really stupid if you think that's a smart thing to do.  I HAVE actually told me TM before I didn't like her coaching style.  And explained to her what another TM had done and that I liked it better.  NOT smart.  Yah, she didn't take that blow to her sensitive ego very well, that someone else possibly had a better leadership style than she did.  Someone 20 years younger at that.  Again, if that's the way you do things, and it works for you.  GREAT!!!  But everyone does things their own way.

And the Senior Manager WILL know who.  It isn't HOPE that she reads it.  She DOES read it!!  She's come out and said she's "addicted" to it!!

And they don't "really bother me".  I'm allowed to post whatever the hell I want on here though!!  And if I feel like I want to vent on there, than so be it!

You don't like it?  You feel bad for the TM's?  Wa wa wa.  Don't read it than!!

If you're too much of a chickenshit to say it to their face, then STFU and don't say it at all.  No one wants to hear or read you whining about a situation that you could actually do something about but refuse to  - you could tell your TM (in a way that is tactful and won't insult them so that they won't be looking to seek reprisals against you), or get another job where you aren't working for that TM.  Do you think we feel bad for TM's who may be incompetent or have some other issue, or do we feel bad for you whose approach to life's problems is to post anonymously about them on a message board while taking no real action to solve them?  (hint:  They're already TM's and making more money than you.  You're going to be miserable answering phones for the rest of your life because you'd rather sit here and complain instead of doing something about it.)  

"No one wants to hear or read " Except you!!!  Thanks for reading!!  :)  

I'm not miserable at all, actually!  Thanks though!  And I haven't complained about MY TM on this site, she's actually pretty great for the most part!  

You don't need to feel bad for me!  I'm great and happy, and could care less if I get laid off, or not!  

And I could care less if they make more than me!  My husband makes more than two of their paychecks, trust me!

Take care fucktard!

"Sassafras" you need a xanax...honey

The problem with CG, if you haven't figured it out yet, is that you CANT bring stuff like that up. If you bring up something that is even remotely different from exactly what they want to hear, you will never hear the end of it, and it will, in effect, kill any chances of moving anywhere in the company, no matter what chair you sit in there.

Everyone from Peon SHSV reps to SM's will tell you the same, in confidence of course, because they too know the real deal. 

Some people don't have a lot of responsibilities at home, so, they do not care about rocking the proverbial boat. However, those that have invested large parts of their lives here, they can ill afford to do anything like you are suggesting. They have seen what happens to people that try to take a stand, or that open their mouth about injustices that go on in the company. They will make your life a living nightmare at work, until you can no longer take it. 

It happened to me before, so bad that I had to go to the doctor for Anti-Anxiety meds for the first time in my life, because it felt like I was having a heart attack every day when I came in. Imagine getting called in to meeting after meeting with higher ups berating you because you dared to make a comment about another person's performance, even though they asked you for the information! Or knowing someone who they used to harrass so bad that they used to go into the restrooms and cry on their breaks. Or knowing a rep that they would not let transfer sites (on her nickel) because of god knows why, never giving her a reason, but telling her no, even though the other site was hiring for her same position. The list goes on and on and on. 

I do speak UP and I am constantly harassed but I joke about it, i say it is a a mild case of terret syndrome but humor only gets you so far. I too wanted to transfer but after succ interviews with LAO for the same position I was told the position was absorbed? One of the SR SR mngrs only 3 I think not sure of title when he see's me he says" staying out of trouble" I tell him it's so hard hahaha...but I do a good JOB. I cross my T's and I dot my I's and at the end of the day I do my job right. But I have a big mouth... so I knew early on I could NEVER be a tm it's not in my blood. 

OMG.  This has gotten so way out of hand.  Get a grip people!  I work for CG an have my own opinion and I have been respected and promoted year after year for it.  The places you are describing as CG do not remotely resemble the CG that I work for.  Wow, how could you become so angry people.........If it is really that bad for you, you should be praying to be let go and released from all of your STRESS.

"GET OVER IT" are you for real!! Have you read the posts HELLO !!!!! Please don't post unless you know what your talking about.

"GET OVER IT" there are over 1100 posts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

michael, when you work for a company that tells you when you have to wake up, when you can see your children, when you can"T, sorry but s**t (it came to that piont), when you can talk and how to talk... the list goes on...A company that demands so much loyality, but can easly fire an employee of 20 years and keep employees on hold for so long!!!!!

FUCK CG

michael please do not delete this, it is the truth.

michael please do not delete this, it is the truth.

michael please do not delete this, it is the truth.

I agree with Michael, certain things go on at companies that people do not like, that is for certain.

However, it seems at CG, that it is an almost ingrained part of the culture. And that is what bothers people. 

How else to explain the meeting that they bring everyone into their first week in SHSV training to talk about about great the company is and how much better than everyone else they are. I mean, are you kidding me?!?!?! You are there a week, in stupid kindergarten, errr, I mean training, and they are bringing you in to talk about this stuff? How can you tell how great it is somewhere in your first week or two? 

Working at CG and Relationships are similar. At first, you meet someone. They look good, they are on  their best behavior. The sex is great and plentiful, and some of the other perqs make you think, "I'm gonna stay here." Next thing you know, your stuck with someone that is steadily taking the benefits away. When you say something, it's your fault, and you're the jerk. You're made to feel that it's you, and that everything is your own doing. But, she won't even tell you what you did wrong, but you feel the tension every day. However, you sneak away to talk to your buddies at the local watering hole, and find out that a lot of people feel the same way. Most don't like your new girlfriend, and think that shes a little mental. You want to get out, but, you've invested a lot of time and energy into it, so, you're unsure as to what to do. She threatens to leave you.. and, you kind of want her to, but at the same time, you are comfortable. Everyday you think "Today's the day", but, alas, it's not meant to be.....

Yes I am for real!  I go to WORK everyday to work, not to fight.  There is a reason I am told what to do at times, because there is a process for doing things and I follow it.  I am allowed to think and deviate and I am listened to by my peers when I have a differing opinion and processes have been changed based on y suggestions.  I am a good employee and CG is a great employer.  I do not recognize the company that you are describing.  As to being told when to see your family, DUDE, you are at work.  See them after or stay at home with your children.  You made the choice.  Man, there is not this anger in the office where I work.  We have fear of losing a job we love at a place we love to work.  Maybe it is that you hate your job to begin with.  Not sure I could be happy answering telephones for my life.  So if you want to tell me to shut up like the some have, I really don't care.  Rather it symbolizes how ignorant you are and that you may not be the right fit for CG.  That may be why you are so angry.  I would probably worry if I were you.  Take note that I won't tell you to shut up rather that it has become boring reading post minimizing others and displaying such disrespect and anger towards other people's thoughts.  Good luck, you will need it.

I think people are angry becuase of the waiting game, that of course was explained in the email today, but truly the layoffs should have happened by 5/15/09 delaying the process made things very bad for CG on this web site. 

Friends, I got to visit this site as it came highly recommended by another associate. I am in state of shock as I read things on this site. It almost seems like that CGC will go through complete overhaul. Those who will be laid off will leave and those who wont probably ( and are paranoid) want to leave eventually when the economy improves. Guys - be smart - build knowledge, resources, and contacts. The best advice you can get today is not to depend on a company but depend on your skill. Once you do that, you will never worry about losing a job. Rest all - one company is good, one is bad and one is fair is all crap, you make the world around you. Good Luck to Everyone.

Today 4 in HR were let go in PHO. Most of the IT people in the 2nd bldg will be let go soon too.  That is the latest I hear from PHO. Any other sites affected today? PLEASE share. This 820 to be let go globally...I wonder what the headcount per site is? Any thoughts? Any real facts?  

PHO IT will be notified week of Jun 8 whether they are laid off or have the opportunity to relocate.

HR was hit today in SNO and IRV too.

For all of the haters on this board:
Some of US at Capital have been saying, for years, that the growth curve was unhealthy, that our culture was changing, that the core tenants of our founding were being eroded. Some have even noted that a few loose screws slipped by the recruiters. Take note, many of US are gunning for YOU! That's right, you reap what you sow. If you've been working your hardest, producing at your best, and making a positive impact, then you have nothing to fear, as job loss is not your key interest. If you've been lazy, complacent, or just down right underperforming, then your time has come, the coddling and coaching must cease. This is not an easy out, just a tough, yet proper and careful decision. Capital is a great investment firm, with world class service, both of which differentiate us from our competition. Either subscribe to that principal or move on. If you're a subscriber, you'll be rewarded with the same benefits you've enjoyed thus far as an associate of Capital. No, I'm not talking about dollar signs and extra time off. I'm talking about personal and professional development, pride of workmanship, mentorship by a world class management team, and opportunities to be challenged and engaged to no end. I know I am joined by a far greater majority than found here on this board. I'll be smiling at you in the hallway, and congratulating you on a job well done when I work with you. That's what I'm used to at CG.
-Be a Leader

"CG For Life " you had me for a while but too many fucked up TM's that are in place and in the end your comment contradicts what is in place. Sorry just my opinion..

"CG For Life " have your read the post about the ee who was fired after 19 yrs.... please feel free to comment under that post

I agree with your comments...everyone has a choice, either "subscribe to that principal or move on".

Unfortunately, though, since the process has taken SO long (almost 6 months if you consider the layoffs in GIG as the start)...a lot of employees have moved on mentally.  We were all prepared for the appocoalypse.  Now that the number of those who are identified for lay off is in the 10-12% range, we are realizing that we MAY NOT be let go.  It's difficult to rebound from this when one foot is already out the door.

Assuming that you are in upper management, I hope that you and the others on the committee will really take to heart the low morale state of your employees.  We no longer feel empowered to make a difference within the company.  We've all become cogs in the spinning wheel of CG.  It's up to you to not only reorganize the company quickly, but to find ways to empower people once again.  Otherwise, you will lose valuable, talented employees.

And while I'm on my soap box...I'd like to add that I think that now more than ever, CG needs to look at ways of retaining the staff that it has.  Soon the economy will rebound and you'll need more employees.  People today are looking for more flexibility and a better life/work balance.  With many of us commuting long distances to work, CG should really consider telecommuting as an option.  I know that I could easily handle my position from any location as long as I have a computer.  I realize that areas of the company may be offering this as an option already, but it is not available to AFD employees.  I hope that Management will consider telecommuting in the near future.

Thanks for listening.

Capital has accumulated alot of dead wood over the years and a massive housecleaning was long overdue.  I worked there 7 years and it was starting to happen to me so I got out.  I am 100% happier now and have received 2 promotions at my new job, whereas Capital didn't think I was worth promoting once in those 7 years.  Everyone else I know who has left has done much better than at CG.  They want to keep you down so you'll think you have no value anywhere else but I urge everyone still there to go out and start looking when the economy improves.  You might be surprised. . .  

I am telling you that this better happen soon as the women managers in LAO have broken out the claws.  They are at each other's throats, trying to make themselves look better.  Sad thing is they are not even good looking.  Another thing, like it helps at this point!  Get real ladies, don't draw negative attention to yourself.  You are probably already on the list.  Good luck

when the econ changes, and the market gets better, don't think that we won't remember how you suppressed our raises, doctored up mediocre reviews all grabbed from a generic TM review word doc template.  We stayed there because we trusted you and trusted our money with you.  You fucked us on both count.

A QUESTION For all the people that got laid off, and the others that still have a job;

HOW MANY WOULD CONTINUE TO INVEST WITH CG IN THE FUTURE?    Michael you should have this as a survey question.  

I would be curious, how many people are taking the severence money and investing it with CG, versus Bank Of America or Charles Shwabb

Will any of those people trust AF again?


Thanks
BDS.

@CG For Life

People posting negative comments on this board are not "haters", they're simply expressing their opinions and experiences honestly which they can not do in that repressive cult environment that you've been brainwashed to love because it makes you feel so superior.

Oh and while you're admiring yourself in the mirror, take some time to learn the proper use of English. You've confused "tenants" with "tenets", and "principal" with "principle". Maybe that's CG-bonics, or maybe you're just a moron.

I worked in IT in LDO and my employment ceased on May 31. Other colleagues in LDO and GVO will leave either in July or September. IT in Europe is been decimated. Only a handful of senior managers will remain, with a skeleton staff, the majority of which is composed of fairly junior associates (they are cheaper). More layoffs are expected in other departments in June too. The European arm of CG will effectively be put into hibernation. The severance package here is composed of payment in lieu of notice,  one month salary per year service (min. 3 months), bonus, 3 additional months of health cover and a choice between outplacement services or training allowance (worth 4,000 GBP).
Working at CG was nice, so being laid off was disappointing, but I have put it behind me now, and I am looking for a new position. Shame about the job market though, the financial services industry in London has been severely hit by the credit crunch, yet I remain optimistic. Good luck to you guys.

To: London IT - sorry to hear of your layoff and all the changes there.  I was in SHSV and layed off as well.  I liked working for CG and was not expecting to be impacted.  As you said, I will put it behind me and look for something new.  I'm also very optimistic :)  best of luck to you!

I agree it was good while it lasted but Capital has a culture which it promotes and if you dont fit in or pursue then you are considered an outsider. Whats left of IT in LDO is now a weak skeleton of spineless `yes men` who count their cheques and send their off spring to private schools and go bird shooting !

I am sorry to all the decent folk who have been culled and who will be let go shortly, but if you ask me, its better to go with a cheque now or stay in an environment which you hate yourself for doing so as it lacks real leadership and quality

One thing for sure and you can stake your life on it, the gutless miserable back stabbing IT managers left in EU will stay there until they retire as they are lifeless to move on elsewhere !

Sounds like you have a lot of pent up anger towards your co-workers, but I'm curious as to why you would spell your last name incorrectly in a tribute to yourself?

Great song

This may be what the old boy was working on the whole time he worked here.

Can't blame him for spelling his name wrong though.  He wouldn't want any prospective employers to see this by Googling his name would he?  But I took the liberty of correcting it for him Opps...

Then again maybe he misspells his own name a lot.  Boy really couldn't count his balls and get the same number twice.


Here is once again Ladies and Gentlemen for your enjoyment! 

Tim Diaz!!


“This is my tribute to me. One of the biggest slack asses ever to work for CG.  (Sung to the tune of “the Spectacular Spider-Man”)  My Fav.

Oh you might have guessed I’m queer.
I have an earring in my ear.
And big tattoos along my arm.
I’d love to cause your asshole harm.

Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz

I go drinking every night.
Buzzed at work feels pretty right.
I wear my slacks below my crack.
Like rubbing Matta on his back.

Angel is my ho so to Austin I must go.
Big hairy guys I like to blow
Playing with them down below.
I just thought you ought to know.

Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz

Three hour lunches are so sweet.
Then it’s off to beat my meat.
Beer breaks all throughout the day.
Kissing ass along the way.

Playing gangster is so cool.
Was a loser while in school.
Who needs college that’s for chumps.
I like wearing high-heel pumps.

Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz


My taste in friends is pretty sad.
Most of them smell pretty bad.
You see my cock is really small,
That’s because I have one ball.

I pretend to rap and all that crap.
Hang with me and get the clap.
Forgive my yellow smile.
I haven’t brushed in quite a while.

Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz

Hiding old food in someone’s bag.
It was funny cause he’s a fag.
I got away with quite a lot
I even got to smoke some pot.

My old manager thinks she’s hot.
That fat hag put out a lot.
You should have heard her scream and yell.
Her nasty box it sure did smell.

I scammed her and everyone.
Working here was so much fun.
Come in late or miss some days.
Always got a big fat raise.

Surf the net in meetings all the time
How could this have been a crime.
Got my bonus and that is cool.
That’s because she was a fool!


Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz

Doing nothing all day long.
How could this job be so wrong.
I loved to fool all the morons in IT,
in AFS and AFD.

The idiots I worked around.
Worshipped me from on the ground.
Didn’t know I was a tool.
Behind their backs I called them fool.

Ohhhh ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhhhhhh!
Ohhh nooo nooo noo noo noo noo no!
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz
I’m Tim Diaz, Tim Diaz, T Diaz

I started with the mail.
Though I should have been in jail.
I didn’t know my job.
I came to work dressed like a slob.

The lesson I must say.
Is kiss some ass go all the way.
But this slacking didn’t pay
With myself I’m left to play.


Thanks to all you FOOLS!

TDD”

why would you get rid of them?

Newsweek Quote -

But the majority of the layoffs that have taken place during this recession—at financial-services firms, retailers, technology companies, and many others—aren't the result of a broken business model. Like the airlines' response to 9/11, these staff reductions were a response to a temporary drop in demand; many of these firms expect to start growing (and hiring) again when the recession ends. They're cutting jobs to minimize hits to profits, not to ensure their survival. 

http://www.newsweek.com/id/233131

however, Capital layoffs were "GREED" under the name of "CHANGE"

 I do believe that's what the article was implying.  And they make another (not-so) subtle observation:

"Companies that downsize are undoubtedly different in many ways (the quality of their management, for one) from those that don't."

Oh, yeah.  

most of the positions that Capital Group American Funds laid off, will eventually be filled.  However they will be in America's newest unofficial 51st State.  The State of Mumbai, India.
Capital is a large investor in the WIPRO and Infosys, so by hiring contract staff from there, they boost the value of their own shares, and at the same time get really cheap slave labor at a country that has no unions, labor laws, no over time, no holiday pay, no 401k, no medical benefits, no disability insurance, etc...

Can they still call themself AMERICAN Funds, when they clearly betray the AMERICAN values?

Capital Group American Funds (India Inside)

Maybe if CG management were a little more creative, they could get one of the Somalian war lords to hold a bunch of fly engulfed, emaciated, starving African children at gun point in the desert, chaining them to some NGO-donated school desks for 18 hours a day without food and water and potty breaks while doing the crap work for CG.
Isn't that the whole point of the One Laptop Per Child program?

Rumour is that Julie and Tony went to India to sign some large deals. It is hard to believe that more job losses are not coming soon.

I wouldn't describe these actions as "job losses", but rather as "job transfers". The amount of work to be done hasn't necessarily declined, just the barriers preventing CG management from shifting the work to cheap labor in third world countries lacking protection of workers, the environment, etc.

A big win for the few hundred shareholders of CG, a huge loss not only for the 1,000+ laid off American and European workers, but also their heavily indebted governments who will lose the corresponding tax revenues.Monies that have historically been at least partially re-invested by these innovative Western societies to help create the very businesses and infrastructure that CG shareholders have profited so well from over the past 75+ years.

I'm sure if Tony and Julie were laid-off, they can too be replaced with CxOs from India.  Rama Iyer I'm sure has many contacts there. So instead of paying each of them $750k per year in salary and bonuses, they can get a harvard graduate from India for $100K.

Name 10 really brilliant, successful, positive accomplishments that Tony and Julie have done in the past 2 years.

really, I would like to see them listed here.

Ummmmmmm ... ummmmmmmm ...

Helped turn a once hardworking energetic group of happy workers into a harder working paranoid group of disgruntled workers ...

No wait ... ummmmm

Reduced payroll and healthcare expenses ...

No wait ... ummmm

Reduced bonus expenditures ...

No wait ... I'll have to get back to you ...

They seem to be pretty accomplished with Powerpoint...?

Wait, scratch that too...not really an "accomplishment", and besides that was their admins doing all the work.

@Huh:  +4 for humor.  lol

So far we have:
1. Paranoid employees
2. Disgruntled employees
3. Over worked employees
4. Power of finger Pointing.ppt
5. Reduced payroll expense
6. Reduced healthcare expense
7. Reduced bonus expense

This seems like the BOTTOM ten list, rather than TOP 10

One time at a big IT meeting, Julie took credit for implementing a conversion from mainframe to client/server at her former employer. That is a huge accomplishment, it made me wonder how she did all that work ALL BY HERSELF and still have time to learn Powerpoint.

Obviously, taking credit for everyone else's work should get added to this list. It's something that management seems to know how to do better than anything else except perhaps shift blame for failures.

You need to add all the bastards and bitches to the list -- Capital work envirnment is history - those who really understood it are standing in queue now or gone. They don't know what they have lost and it is impossible to create it the same way. Once upon a time it used to be a utopia - a place where happiness prevailed and associates would do anything to get the job done, it was personal for them. Now it is so fucked up that people count 8 hours on their watch so that they can go home. Nobody cares about going an extra mile. Associates are waiting for job market to open so that they can move out of this shitty work environment. Job satisfaction is down the toilet drain.

you're right about CG and greed.they'd rather get rid of superb employees so they can make sure they fill their pockets with more loot and take their african and european vacations, drive their fancy mercedes and add a pool to their house....who cares about the little guy right? 

CG management should ask for public apology from all associates for all the wrong done to them. They owe this to now just the current associates but also to all the ones who were laid off. 

Why and what celestial body  are you currently residing on and is it in orbit in the Milky Way?

I hope you are being sarcastical.  At-will employment works both ways.
Wanna show management how you feel?  Vote with "Fred & Barney" (your feet) when the economy improves.

Wow !  I didn't know there was so much animosity toward CG.  I was part of the June '09 'LET GO' and still looking for a job !  It sucks to be w/o a job, but a lots about CG culture said here are true.  It's gone..gone... gone...

CG associates are angry, very angry, I mean really angry. You can sense how upset they are when you speak with them. It almost seems that they are ready to get rid of julie and her legacy any day. We all know, what happens to companies when employees are so angry - when market opens up, you will see what this means. People who are trying to build empires in CG on the cost of others jobs and hard work will understand when the law of karma catches up. Those who came from outside do not even have a clue what is going to it them soon when the associates wake up.

Don't blame this on Julie.  What has happened is awesome.  Simply lovely. The rank and file CG employees were a bunch of arrogant pricks.  They thought they were better than everyone else.  So to that person that was let go in June and still hasn't found a job -- good for you.  You deserve some of that humble pie.  Karma is a bitch indeed.

Dude ! I just wanted to say "hello" since it was somewhat nice to find some folks that I used to work with.  

You can find more of them at home, since they aint got no job.  Cuz they got no skills.  But I'll tell you what...I'll put in a good word with Julie.  Maybe you can cut her lawn.  Bring Pablo and Isabel with you.

Stop sucking upwards. Seems that lawn job is your back up plan after capital lays you off. Just because you have a job and so many were laid off does not give you a right to start insulting people.

if it werent for Pablo and Isabel you might actually have to work hard----HA!HA!

Looks like the mighty Stepford has retained some real beauts, the kinda lonesome loser trash who spend their weekend staring at the internet trying to make the unemployed feel bad in a depression. 

You're in the right place, pal. Don't ever change either.

Hey crashnburn,

You're obviously the type that CG wants in HR and management, if you're not there already. Did you torture animals as a child, set fires and wet your bed regularly?

Of course, there might not be as many opportunities for you to move up right now. So if you are in too much of a hurry to wait around at CG, you can always look for work as a prison guard, maybe in Texas where they still practice Capital punishment.

Jackass.

You guys think I work for CG.  I don't.  But I did at one point.  I was one of those pesky contractors. You know, the types of people that CG associates felt was way too beneath them.  Yup.  That would be me.  I've long since moved on and am happy contracting at a different company now. But I'll never forget the assholes that worked at CG, and I'm not talking about management.  The "associates" were a bunch of assholes.  So yes, I currently bill out at $105/hr now, even in a recession, and can't help but take pleasure in the hearing all the whining.  Management treated you like shit during the layoffs and now you whine.  But you "associates" treated us contractors like shit, so I guess it's payback time. 

Bon appetit.   

And when you finally land a job with your outdated skills, know that I'll be paying more in taxes than you make in gross salary.  

Life is grand.  Payback's a bitch.

Now that you have shared your past with capital, your position is better understood. I would not like to start a war between associates and contractors but I should remind you of few things. End of the day you were and are a contractor - hourly worker who us brought in to fill short-term needs. CG used to treat many like you as associates and some of you even got opportunities to be at CG for very long on contracts. Those who got along well with associates , were team players, trustworthy and humble  were hired also at times. Now your frustration is understood from your remarks about associates and seems CGC did not continue your contract. It does not matter if you would pay more taxes because of your 105$ rate. Remember contract jobs are short term and what seems today as real may not be real tomorrow. Hope you get the point and this reminds you that you are a contractor and you will do some hard work to control your negitive attitude towards life.

"Now your frustration is understood from your remarks about associates and seems CGC did not continue your contract."

You arrogant dick.  I CHOSE not to continue at CG.  CG didn't choose my work situation, or my exit.  I did.  Why do you idiots insist that CG was some magical place to work?  You proved my point. 

This "hourly worker" is working and getting PAID and paid well.  The disdain in your language in which you refer to me as an "hourly worker"  -- fuck you.  Lawyers are hourly workers as well.

Like I said.  I take pleasure in seeing you fuckers whine about Julie and how hard it is to have been laid off.  As a group, you are one set of arrogant bitches.  The worst I have ever come across.  

The associates I worked with on the whole treated contractors as a person.  A contractor who possessed the ability to do their job and the ability to interact amicably with everyone were generally treated well.  Having said that, the CG culture made a CLEAR distinction between contractors and associates.  At times I can see where it made it difficult for a contractor do perform their job or might have even made them feel, for lack of a better word, "shitty".  The associates I know did their best to include contractors and make them feel as part of the team as  best they could.  You can blame California workplace class action law suits for the disparate contractor / associate culture.

Speaking of karma, what kind of payback will you receive regarding your gloating while other folks are still looking for jobs 365+ days later?

Don't blame California or lawsuits.  CG's not the only company in the state that hires contractors. CG's culture fostered that distinction.  Of the companies that I've contracted at, not one made that distinction the way CG did.

And can we cut the pretense that CG employees are "associates".  They're employees.  Nothing more.  They need to stop pretending that they work in a law firm.  Associates?  Please.  The self-importance has got to stop.  They're trying to run around like they work at McKinsey without the skills or educational pedigree to back it up.

So why are you sticking it to the "associates" when it's CG's culture that is responsible for your treatment?

Can you honestly say all associates treated you badly or the select few you knew / interacted with?

From my 15 years experience in IT, there was definitely a double standard between contract and employee workers.

Contractors in BRO were not to be given a cubicle (although some did score one)  This was a trigger reaction, because a decade ago, ONE contractor ruined it for all the rest. This long term contractor once sued CG for medical benefits, because he claimed he attended company functions, meetings, worked in the office like his bretheren, but when he got ill, he didn't have medical coverage like the CG employees.   So the management response after this frivolous lawsuit, is to intentionally make a distinction on the silly criteria.   They also instituted a 6 months max limit for contractors, after which time they must hire or fire.  For critical projects, and if the wage was right, many exceptions were made to extend the term of the contract, some for years.

Contractors were excluded from company events, that nasty thanksgiving turkey slurry, picnics in the park, Disneyland day, etc.  That was unfortunate, because they were part of our working team, and this event was for team building, it felt awkward.  TECHNICALLY contractors were employed by their respective staffing agencies, KForce, WIPRO etc.. and also had their own 401K benefits through their own staffing agencies.

I have MANY friends that are contractors, lunch buddies, some were offered a permanent job, others were cut, when the new re-org manager didn't like them and wanted to hire his own posse of kronies.

Another absurb thing that my contractor friends had to "suffer through" is that in many IT groups, they were intentionally not given proper access for 3-4 months to do their basic job description, because they need to "prove themself" first.   (see the linked Youtube video from Kill Bill)     This is frustrating, because they feel like "why did you hire me, if you were not going to trust me enough to do the job"

While contractors had to "suffer" with the instability of being a contractor, a good highly skilled contractor would have also been highly paid, to compensate for the high risk of being cut at any moment and the supposed lack of paid training by CG.  Note that many reputable headhunters *do* offer training benefits and med and 401k.

Generally speaking, contractors would not get free training, because that is a mighty perk (sarcasm) of being an employee. However, on a few unspoken events, an important manager in IT had approved and paid for his favorite contractor to get free training.

I'm not talking about that BS in-house junk, I'm talking about off-site, professional 5 days course from a reputable certified vendor training instructor.

On my team and IT dept, contractors were our friends, we had lunch together, many even had drinks together after work.  I didn't see contractor discrimination from employees towards contractors.

Funny shit, is that employees in BRO had to pay $30 per month for the priveledge of parking on the leased property, whereas contractors were technically short term "visitors" and didn't pay for that extortion.

while employees were branded like cattle with acronym INITIALS for their id, contractors had the CON prefix. If you worked there, this is not news.

While some contractors were laid off, strange enough, most were retained during the lay-offs.  On my team, the contractors stayed, but 6 employees were tossed, demoted or re-assigned.

Also contractors were asked severely to take a 10% pay-cut.  Some did, others didn't.   The ones that didn't, got an OFFER THEY CAN'T REFUSE.  So they had to bow down to the pay cut after all.

This was a flexibility advantage that contractors had, because permanent employees were not even offered the option to take 10% cut, to avoid the lay offs, as many OTHER honorable successful companies had implemented.

I hear and share the frustrations everyone is expressing.  Currently long term associates are quitting left and right.  These are fully vested associates who rather walk and if need be rely on their MRP to et them by while they find something else.

HERE IS MY QUESTION:  Why are we stopping with just a discussion of the situation.  Mngt steered the ship that got us all to where we are (unhappy and pissed off).  

WHY NOT: Cryptically or outright dime out the things we know to be true on all mngt that led to this point?  We al know most SR mngrs and above have a girlfriend on the side... spell it out.  We all have stories of getting overly screwed by mngt.  Call them out on it.  

Go to the library if you hesitate to use your computer, but start naming names and lets turn this into a CG revolution of the "Gods of CG MNGT" and that associates who have taken it long enough...!

Don't walk away,don't quit-  revolt in a quiet way!

@Question to all

You are not a shareholder, and CG is not a democracy, therefore it is pointless in thinking you are going to accomplish any real change from within the rank and file. That's why most bright people who now see the writing on the wall will simply move on if they're not happy with how things are being run at CG, and you should do the same if you can. At some point if CG management and HR realize they're losing good people and not able to hire the best (both contractors and full time) because of they way they've been treating them, maybe things will change again for the better.
Good luck. Seriously.

Hey Crashy, you have nothing to do with Siegey but you hang out on this board on weekends to spew vitriol because a few WASPs with sticks up their cavities didn't care about you? 

With all those phat piles of green around?

We should wonder or worry why you got taken for a Loser?

I may be out of work for right now, but I'm in great shape, I've got girls again, friends, and new adventures all the time. This has been one restful and productive set of months, and unemployment is funding my search. Eventually, if a great career doesn't materialize, I can always stoop to being a contract whore for whatever soulless dump wants me to spread 'em. 

So keep earning those tax dollars for us all, k handsome?

@riseandshine  - how's that unemployment check treating you?  Don't hate the player, hate the game. If you had the skills, you wouldn't still be all fours taking government handouts. 

It's ok though.  You're not down with The Situation, so I can understand how you look up to me. 

Praise well noted and appreciated. 

You can take your $105 per hour check and stick it in your f'g.........it may be worthwhile for you to try to save it for bad times that are almost there for you. when you lose your short-term contract come back to this board and beg for a assignment in CG and remember you are not entitled for unemployment because you are a contractor - a reminder again for your true worth (a contract hourly worker who is required to do the assigned work and will be flushed in the toilet after that).

"...and remember you are not entitled for unemployment because you are a contractor"

You IDIOT.  Before you speak, get your facts straight.  1099s are not entitled to unemployment.  W2s can get unemployment.  Contractors can be 1099 or W2 (or Corp to Corp).

Now...apologize for your stupidity.

ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrnnnnnnnn

Wow Crashchild, you're even simpler than you write. 

Here's how layoffs work: The point is to cut as much salary as possible and avoid lawsuits and bad publicity. While of course a few, stray bad eggs get douched, almost all of it is based on money and lawsuits. I was an easy target, very high salary, middle aged, and no retirement payout. I was also a demographic match to one of the opposite gender, similar age and title and salary. That's a big key. Why do you think those stats get distributed? We all went out in pairs where at all possible. Instant lawsuit vaccination. So if they wanted one gone, for any reason, you might get nuked just based on demos--or they found convenient pairs and that was that.

Didn't help if you were an alpha either. Corporations want rabbits and toads and mules and deer and I'm not even close. So in many cases, SUPERIOR people were tossed, for many variety of reasons.

Skills mean nothing in the equation. Everyone knows everyone in financial services got mad game, except for the obvious political cases, which fill every glass and steel nightmare in the land, whether they scheme finance or widgets.

I'm quite sure it killed them to give most the heave ho. Many were heavily recruited, hand picked, groomed, heavily trained. We were all deeply loyal and brutally hard working, again with some exceptions. Pretty sure I was putting in more hours than anyone else on my whole floor, popular with everyone... my IQ is sky high, 160, maybe more, my successes a mile long. I could go on. They knew it, and you would too if you knew me, which you didn't because I treat everyone as the equal they are.

Skills are the last thing involved. Don't you know Business 101? Everyone's replaceable. Just give the work to the manager and/or the next stooge in line, who's making much less anyway--or don't do that work anymore, or re-org, or farm to the Third World. Quality always gets sacrificed for quantity in big business. The shareholders get what they want first and foremost.

Hey, if these companies were so smart, they wouldn't have crashed the economy and been trumped by the indexes in the first place, tossing huge percentages of their supposed most precious resource into the street with a small handful of paychecks pretending that was going to begin to get them through. A vulgar and hideous and pitiful and cruel display of all that is wrong with us.

It's all a disaster and a tragedy of their own making. The rank and file were all helpless to stop it. The suits must live with the soul sucking karma of it all, whether they even know it or not. If you didn't see this housing bubble coming, and what that was going to entail, you shouldn't have been working at Denny's let alone in financial services.

So you say they were so mean and cruel to you and yet made perfect calls in the layoffs?

The crash and burn is your doomed and desperate logic meeting the fine minds of this page. They've stooped to conquer far better than the meager likes of you.

Push aside your sad ego and consider that the Financial Services Industry just leached how many Trillions out of the economy? 20% of two centuries of American wealth GONE in 18 months. There's never been skills like this on the street. Just read a piece this week where a Harvard guy tracked all the out of work fellow grads in the city. Incredible people--lawyers and CFOs, you name it--with long track records of success at the very best companies. All out of work for months and going on years. Not ITT Tech, slide ruler, Harvard people. And they can't get arrested for trying. These stories have been everywhere all the time to see for yourself for years... for people who aren't pounding pud all day or just so full of self loathing that they lash out irrationally, facts be damned.

There's no work for highly paid, mid-career people right now. My failure to find a great job has so much more to do with how good I am--and cost--than not being qualified. We see that you don't read, but still, this is more Business 101 that I thought anyone knew. Who the hell hire's anyone who'll bail in a year or two for the right bucks when the recovery begins raging???

Duh. Do you know anything about business and economics?

I'm good with unemployment, I made big money and have paid into the system for years and years and never cheat on my taxes and still donate to charity. I deserve support while I struggle daily to become a 40 percent taxpayer again. The economy would really swirl the toilet once and for all if they didn't prop up these good, hard working people for a while. Stimulus is ugly, of course, and I want off the dole yesterday, but it's without any question as necessary as shocking a cardio case back to the land of the living.

You probably missed Stiglitz on Charlie Rose the other night, huh?

By the way, how much did you give to Haiti, moneybags? How much to Chile?

I supplement it all with day trading--I'm beating most funds and indexes--do pro bono for NFPs, consult for friends with businesses and entrepreneurial deals are incubating as we speak. We need specialized tech people as it's a solutions-based venture, but i guess I shouldn't ask about your availability.

So when I choose not to be busy with that, I stay out late, get laid, wake up whenever, and put in a few hours search, however long that takes, hit the gym, hone my skills on all the cool things I couldn't do at my last job... and have fun. 

You can't sweat a scene like this. Read Ecclesiastes. 

So I've about never felt better. Yeah, there's bad days--moments of doubt and sadness hit us all no matter what our status--but it's not like the bad days in the corporate death spiral. You get dumped and then discover: corporate life stinks! I'd rather smell the men's bathroom down at the docks on welfare check day. The bad stress, bad food, bad sleep, false reviews, daily lies, backstabbing horrible people. A dumb and chickenshit way to waste your life.

All in all, your note is just vapid and vain, you plainly didn't even pay attention. I schooled you and you just pretended otherwise. This is how computer contractors get a rep that they can't hang with people and might as well be ignored.

How could anyone look up to a troll that claims to be some highly paid expert and yet would take weekend time to come on a board and antagonize total strangers at the worst time in their lives through no fault of their own?

On the serious side, you obviously have a problem, beyond not getting any, and that's probably a factor in why you feel unrecognized even at one or another totally square, white bread, delta male, uncool company when you're just one more here-and-then-gone temp boy. Don't ever work on a film set, kiddo, they'll fillet your big ass with peppers and onions on day one, for breakfast.

Instead, take some of those big bucks and rather than putting it into porn, get a therapist. Cut back on the wanking and get an audiobook on personal growth, you know, books for those who can't read. There's still time, even for someone who uses decade old cliches indicative of a wholly wannabe/neverbe identity-crisis status.

Might even get you a kiss one of these years. Open your heart an ass-hair so that anytime you meet shitty, rude people--as you always will--you don't mirror their dickness yourself like some poor slave.

K babe? That's it. I don't like you and I'm not going to try to help you further, no matter what you post. Going to the gym, getting some lunch, and getting a haircut to impress my lady.

****

Wish Peace to all my Brothers and Sisters. Life isn't fair. The road is rough. Be strong, keep the faith, and love each other. Lets focus on Haiti and Chile and our own people right here who have so much less than us right now. They truly need us as they have no one else. Together we will make a better world no matter how hard these corporations and their puppet politicians try to rape it for their own short term lust for money at any cost.

I Love You All!

Does anyone know who to talk to over KDC in SA?  there are unfair practices going on and many feel they have no where to turn.  HR isn't even looking over it either.

@riseandshine -- that was the most verbose, yet eloquent insult ever hurled at me. That was priceless.  It stands on its own.  It should not be followed up by anything less worthy.  So it won't be.

"dont want to say"   most dept's go through similar issues at various times.  can you cryptically describe the issue.  i may be able to give you some direction.

ooooooooohhhhhhhhhhh burrrrrrrrrrnnnnnnnnnnnnn

That was a wonderful note from you - unlike most writings here, that did made a lot of sense. I want to confidentially meet you, really I mean it. I cannot reveal the reason on this board but it has to do something with what you wrote. I have a image of yours in my mind and I think it would be good if we meet and talk. I don't know how you and I can do that without revealing our identity. You are so intelligent, so please show the way........

That last post reminds me of the scene(s) where Joe Pesci got "made" ...

only if you had read that post carefully - seems you do not get hidden messages idiot. There is a major one there in both posts.

Jobs: Short-term hope, long-term despair

By David Goldman, staff writer
March 6, 2010: 8:48 AM ET


NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Friday's jobs report showed some glimmers of a recovery but if you're among the 8.8 million Americans still unemployed after nearly four months, you may have been left scratching your head.

You're not alone.

"Whether you say the jobs market is improving or getting worse, there are people who will say you're crazy," said Lakshman Achuthan, managing director of Economic Cycle Research Institute. "That's because there are two Americas, and they're both right."

Of the 8.8 million who have been unemployed for more than 3-1/2 months, there are 3.5 million more now than there were at this point last year. And for this group, the job market is looking grimmer by the day. According to the Labor Department, a stunning 58.9% of jobless Americans have now been unemployed for more than 15 weeks -- an all-time high.

On the other hand, the job market is rapidly improving for those who have been unemployed for less than 3-1/2 months. There are 1.2 million fewer Americans who have been unemployed for under 15 weeks, compared with this time last year. The 41.1% who have been out of work for fifteen weeks or less marks a record low.

One caveat. Some of those who have dropped out of the under-15-week group may still be out of work, putting them into the longer-term unemployed group.
A tale of two job markets

A closer look at the numbers helps paint a picture of the increasingly fractured job market.

Economists say most of the workers who have been out of a job for more than 15 weeks include those in slow-to-recover industries like construction, finance and manufacturing. Unfortunately for them, those businesses will likely be the last to recover.

"There is simply no business demand for construction workers or the guys writing credit-default swaps and derivatives," said Achuthan. "The economy, going forward, doesn't want them."
0:00 /1:34What's in the overdue jobs bill?

When the housing and credit bubbles burst in late 2007 and 2008, the economy tanked. Leading up to that, when the bubble was expanding, both industries had a glut of workers. That left those industries over-exposed to financial losses when things turned sour. Both markets are just starting to recover, but businesses are still wary about hiring back construction workers and complex finance experts.

"Those areas that were over capacity will have no bounce back anytime soon," said Doug Roberts, chief investment strategist for ChannelCapitalResearch.com

On the flipside, the short-term unemployed are largely from the services industries, economists say. Those with training in private and professional services have been able to find jobs faster in a number of growing industries like health care, information technology and education.

For instance, the health-care industry has added 210,000 workers over the past year, according to the Labor Department. With an increasingly aging population, demand for health-care services is growing rapidly.

Education has added 36,000 jobs during the past 12 months, and other industries like tech and accounting have also recently started adding positions.
Temp jobs a temporary solution

For the growing number of people who have been unemployed for 15 weeks or more, there's no easy solution to get their jobs back.

"The problem is that most the of the long-term unemployed are older people that have been doing the same thing for years. You can't just take a construction worker and give him a job in a hospital," said Achuthan. "No jobs bill is going to be able to deal with that."

Historically, after an industry's bubble burst, it has taken a long and steady recovery before businesses were willing to take a chance and hire again. Meanwhile, its workers' skills atrophy, and they cost the country about $100 billion a year in lost productivity, Achuthan said.
Tax goodies for job seekers

For those who can't find work in their fields but are able to get training or adapt their skills to new endeavors, there is a silver lining: temporary, introductory-level jobs are one of the fastest-growing sectors. Nearly 100,000 temporary positions have been created in the first two months of 2010 alone.

"The huge trend of temporary hiring will continue for a while, which is good for people looking for just about anything," said Roberts. "Now people are just happy to have any job."

The Huh is waiting to participate in the "Reindeer Games".  He's hoping that the omniscent Jedi aka "Ya Right" will enlighten hopefully soon, yes.