Implications and Opportunities from Deferred Resignation

The race is on for job seekers. In the coming weeks, the number of job applicants competing for open jobs will likely rise by at least 100,000 people who are expected to take "deferred resignation" from the federal government.

The mechanics of the "deferred resignation" have been clarified by the OPM FAQ, which asks and answers:

• Am I expected to work during the deferred resignation period?
• Answer: "No." Except in rare cases determined by your agency, you are not expected to work.

This means that over 100,000 federal employees will soon be 

a) Not working from home 
b) Collecting full pay and benefits for up to eight months
c) Given explicit encouragement to job seek.

I empathize with those who, through no fault of their own, are being pressured into resigning so that the federal government can attempt to move towards a balanced budget. It is reasonable to expect that following the voluntary deferred resignations there will be additional involuntary separations in the months to come. I think it is also reasonable to believe that this might be the best offer forthcoming from the federal government for employee separation. 

I especially empathize with those who have been in the hunt for a new role for an extended period. There are too many "open to work" banners on Linkedin for people that I can personally attest have been exemplary employees. I have seen a shocking number of stories of it taking upwards of a year to replace a lost position. And now there will be even more competition for the coveted and somewhat elusive white-collar jobs.

If you are open to work or soon to be open to work, have you considered hiring yourself? Perhaps you haven't considered the option because you don't consider yourself an entrepreneur. Or perhaps you prefer to follow a playbook and you are uncomfortable with the idea of writing your own. 

There are many proven business models with playbooks and systems ready to go, just waiting for the right skilled person to bring to their geography. Yes, I am referring to franchise opportunities. It's true that not all franchises are created equal, but I would argue that is a feature not a bug. There are home-based franchises that don't have a huge price tag. There are brick-and-mortar franchises that you probably frequent often but never realized is a franchise business. 

Fun Fact: There are over 3,000 franchise concepts employing over 8 million people in the United States. 

Is it time to consider options beyond a job? Is it time to think about hiring yourself? Is it time to build something you can pass down as a legacy to your children? 

If you are ready for that conversation, please reach out. I will do my best to assist.