[thefastlane]

"A business is just a business and will get rid of you as soon as it can, so you do the same."

I agree wholeheartedly. even nonprofits, etc., tend to be helmed by folks that think purely in terms of financial statements, etc.

in their eyes, you are nothing more than a line item on a spreadsheet. everyone above you on an orgchart effectively has the power to have you ousted. you, of course, have no such reciprocal power over them.

one key takeaway from this observation: don't live paycheck to paycheck -- it's tempting to buy nice stuff with all this money you're suddenly earning... but don't do it. get serious about your finances now. first priority is to save up buffer funds (six months minimum). don't let their power to fire you turn into the power to seriously wreck your life. be proactive in taking care of yourself, you family, and your career.

and as has been said elsewhere, plan to make a jump to a new firm every 2 to 4 years or so, that's the best way to build up your earning potential.

do i sound cynical? hope for the best but plan for the worst.