Company is going through an acquisition, am I cooked?

Navigating Uncertainty: What to Do During a Corporate Acquisition

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate America, acquisitions can bring about uncertainty and anxiety for employees. This is especially true for those of us who find ourselves in newly established roles in businesses undergoing significant changes. I’ve recently encountered this situation myself and am seeking advice on how to navigate these uncharted waters.

Allow me to provide some context: I’m a woman in my late twenties, and even though I hold an MBA, I was hired as a controller for a small family-owned business just three months ago—without quite the qualifications listed in the job description. Recently, my colleagues and I learned that our company has been acquired by another dealership in the area. This sudden news has left me feeling uneasy.

To add to my apprehension, my only prior experience with this company wasn’t particularly pleasant. Five years ago, I interviewed for a finance role, which upon initial offer seemed promising. However, after reviewing the contract, I discovered significant discrepancies regarding salary, prompting me to decline the position and walk away feeling disillusioned. Given this history, it’s hard for me to trust that the new owners will value my role—or those of my coworkers—once they take over.

While venting is sometimes necessary, I’m also seeking guidance on how to proactively address my concerns. Should I start exploring job opportunities in my industry now, or is it too soon to jump ship? This position is the first one that has provided me with a decent salary, and having recently made a significant financial commitment—such as purchasing a new car—I’m understandably hesitant about reverting to a lower income.

If you have insights or strategies for navigating a job search during a period of corporate upheaval, I would greatly appreciate your input. How can one balance the need for stability with the reality of potential job insecurity? Any advice would be invaluable as I work through these challenging times.