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It makes perfect sense to wonder whether you’ll be out of a job because of the continuing economic downturn. What doesn’t make sense is figuring that you’re powerless to do anything about it. What do you do if you’re feeling uneasy about your job security?
Answer: Be proactive.
Try these six excellent tips for preparing yourself “at the first signs of trouble,” offered by writer Elizabeth Garone, of the Wall Street Journal. For more from the article, check out the WSJ, January 27, 2009, page D4)
–Trust your gut and don’t delay.
If you feel something is amiss, or see signs that the company is in serious trouble, start looking for a new job.
–Get everything in order.
Don’t wait until after your company begins a mass layoff to update your resume. Be ready to hit the ground running, says Beth Ross, an executive career coach in NYC.
Consider hiring a professional.
People who use a career coach find jobs 15% to 46% faster than those who don’t, according to a study by talent management firm Lee Hecht Harrison.
–Network, network, network.
“Employers assume that people with a job are generally of higher quality than unemployed people,” says career coach Marty Nemko of Oakland, CA. So make those contacts when you can still refer to your current position.
–Do your research.
Find out what sectors are emerging in your industry and elsewhere, says Ross. Take advantage of these and “develop a transition strategy, says Nemko.
–Consider sticking around.
If your company is only experiencing layoffs and not shutting down, think twice about an external move. Instead, look around and see how you can contribute to the bottom line at your current company.
What’s your gut feeling about your workplace? Is it time to stay put, or to begin looking elsewhere?
Let me know what you think, by commenting below, emailing me at moneymattersandmore@yahoo.com, or subscribing to the feed.
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Thanks for reading!
Heather Taylor
Responses to “Job Worries? 6 Tips to Help You Take Charge”
February 5th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Thanks for including those great suggestions, Beth. We never know where a job lead might come from…
February 5th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Great post. Also consider utilizing social media for finding that next job or gig. Cultivating your network is key during an economic downturn and you never know where that next opportunity might come from. Tools like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter can help you meet, engage and network with professionals that you might not otherwise be able to access.