We all complain from time to time about work and the people we have to work with, no doubt. But it’s another thing altogether to feel threatened with unemployment. Although it’s no laughing matter, your boss may be acting funny for a reason. Take a look at some of the following humorous, yet scary signs that may indicate that the ride is nearing an end.

Creation of More Social Events at Work

These are those awkward gathering we’ve all come to know as “office mixers.” A sad attempt at a non-alcoholic cocktail party, trying to boost morale with cookies and punch just isn’t gonna cut it.

Increasingly More Casual Environment

You’ve been asking for it for years — and now everyone can wear flip flops to work. Hey — what just happened? If you find yourself looking like a fourteen year old skater punk at the office, you should wonder what’s going on.

More Contests

You know them, you love to hate them — contests! Yes, this week it’s who’s going to call in sick the most or cash out their vacation pay. When you start having arbitrary contests all the time, start working on your resume.

Your Boss Listens to your Crazy Ideas

Again, he or she used to say no for a valid reason. Try throwing out the most random thing and pitch it to your boss as an idea. If they smile and are looking like they’ll consider it, you know something’s up.

They’re Overly Nice to You

Hey, what’s going on here? The boss just remembered your name, patted you on the back, and tried to get to know you better. What are they up to anyway? Unless this is a commonplace occurrence, which it likely isn’t, this is a sign of the apocalypse. Go straight to your cubicle and start searching craigslist for your future’s sake.

New Faces

Unless you are living in a vacuum and work for the best company ever, you know that new faces asking questions is usually a bad sign. For more examples, watch Office Space. Consultant is Latin for “the guy who wants to lay you off today.”

This post was contributed by Holly McCarthy, who writes on the subject of the job search. She invites your feedback at hollymccarthy12 at gmail dot com.

Tags: economy office humor layoff