Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Don't Let Downsizing Take Your Job With It

With 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.

Embracing the company mission and goals is a good way to strengthen your position. Companies often have expendable positions, and you should make every effort to set yourself apart from others by exemplifying the core tenets of success which the company leaders have set out. Make yourself visible. Come early and stay late. Make suggestions. These will announce to the management that you are an engaged and active player in the business at hand.

Since many companies have corporate offices in other states, the likelihood of your hard work and accomplishments standing out to them is lessened. You must do whatever you can to impress your local supervisor so that the message can be conveyed up the corporate channels. Being proactive is in your best interest at times like these.

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.

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