Have you ever been laid off?

[Mike Betts]

Madison,

Welcome to Corporate America... Do not take it personally...

IMHO, take the severance and the health benefit package. Accept the contract position and do your best. Polish your resume and get it out now.

My next bit of advise would have been unthinkable ten years ago... If you are offered a good position somewhere else, give a minimum of two weeks notice and go. In the past, I would have recommended finishing your contract first.

I repeat, don't take it personally. Your immediate supervision have as little control over these events as you. If they have a continuing requirement for your job position, they will send that requirement up the chain. Do not be surprised if the job offer you end up accepting is with the company you are now with (stranger things have happened).

Good Luck,

Mike