Making Sure Your Employability Remains Strong
Monday, January 5th, 2009With unemployment rates climbing to a whopping 5.7 percent and almost daily reports of industry giants closing their doors, many of us have that queasy feeling of impending doom in the pit of our stomach. And unless we’re lucky enough to be in a “recession-proof” career (if there’s such an animal), the lingering question on all of our minds is whether or not our jobs are safe in these tough times.
This may be the time to become a team player, and being the best employee you can be may give you an added advantage over other employees. For instance go out of your way to be highly visible at work, especially to your supervisors. Don’t hesitate to go above and beyond and do that extra little something that sets you apart. There are some positions that the company can live without, so try to work your way into a core position that makes you indispensable. Come to work early and stay late. Live and breathe your company’s mission. Share its goals, and be an active participant in internal and external activities.
This is the time for you to jump in and become more of a team player. You should do everything possible to assure your contributions are noticed and acknowledged. It is often the corporate offices located elsewhere that make decisions on hiring and firing. You’re possibly nothing more than a number to them, so whatever you can do locally to impress your supervisor will be to your advantage.
If the writing is on the wall and there is a possibility that your job is in jeopardy, you should begin proactive steps right away. Make sure you get your resume updated and fluffed. Do some research with regard to polishing your interviewing skills. And step back and do an analysis of your job skills. Networking among friends is the best way to find a new job and it never hurts to have options on the table.
It may seem like the possibility of losing your job can be debilitating, but there are things you can do to minimize its impact. Avoid making large purchases and make sure you sign up for credit insurance so that some of your bills can be covered. If you can manage it, try to set aside some money for a rainy day. And know that unemployment will likely be available to you, even though the amount maxes out these days at about $330 per week. If the working world leaves you aside, try to keep your head up and consider the positives. After every thunderstorm there is always sunshine.