remember many years ago when I worked in a retail art supply store and my boss said something to me that really made me think. He told me that no one was indispensable, before he said that I really thought I was a valued employee with job security. It was then I realized when you are someone else’s employee, no matter how hard you work you can always be replaced. With the current state of the economy a new problem has arisen among the workers of America, the complete loss of job security. No mater how many years and loyal service you have given to a company if the organization is in trouble you will lose your job, benefits, and often pay.

 On Friday October 1, Ink Stop, an Ohio specialty ink, toner, consumer electronics, and business supply retailer suddenly announced to their employees that they were closing the doors of every one of their 152 stores nationwide and lay off all of their employees until further notice.

In a letter to their employees InkStop stated “The Company has elected to temporarily close all stores at the close of business today October 1, to focus on a restructuring plan in an effort to improve the overall operations to the organization.” The letter also gave the employees the shocking news that the company had stopped paying for their insurance on August 31 so their insurance was already canceled! They said “Your patience during this difficult time is appreciated.”

So, just like that, 550 loyal employees are not only out of work but they will not be paid for their last two weeks and will be held responsible for their medical benefits for the past month! Linda Mastellone, InkStop’s Newton, PA assistant store manager said she was not surprised that the stores were closing, she stated “We all knew the hammer was going to come down, We just didn’t think it would happen in one day!”

So, ask yourself how secure is your job? Are you indispensable? Food for thought…