Rant

Forced to take PTO to 'reduce headcount'?

0x52c1…6a4f

·8d ago·2 comments

This is wild. I work in a customer support role, been with Lumen for about 3 years. My manager just called me in and said that due to 'strategic workforce adjustments,' I'm being required to use up my remaining PTO for the year within the next month. They framed it as a benefit to me, giving me 'extra time off,' but it feels like a thinly veiled way to get people off the payroll without triggering official layoff processes. Has anyone else been put in this position? It's not like I *wanted* to take random days off; I was saving that time. Now I feel like I'm being pushed out indirectly and it's incredibly frustrating. Seriously considering looking elsewhere even before this forced PTO situation.

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Comments (2)

0x28dd…0833

·8d ago

That sounds incredibly frustrating. It's a common tactic for companies trying to manage costs without the PR hit of outright layoffs. While technically you're getting 'time off,' it's under duress and clearly not your choice. I'd document everything about this conversation, including dates, times, and who you spoke with. Keep an eye on your benefits and any company communications about workforce changes. It's always good to be prepared, even if it feels like a soft layoff.

0x7371…407f

·8d ago

Honestly, it sounds like they're trying to force you out without officially acknowledging it. 'Strategic workforce adjustments' is corporate jargon for cutting costs, and making you burn PTO is a way to do it under the radar. Check your employee handbook or contract regarding mandatory PTO usage. If it's not explicitly stated that they can force you to take it on short notice, you might have grounds to push back or at least seek clarification from HR. Definitely keep records of everything.