Worse Times Ahead

The first thing I read today was that Citigroup was cutting 53,000 jobs. Unemployment is already at its highest point since 2001, and will probably get much higher. Now, it does not mean that companies aren’t hiring for certain positions, because they are. It does mean that, in most cases, the people that are let go are the ones that either are not performing at the highest level or those that are causing a problem within the company.
With cuts being made in several departments in corporations around the world, make it impossible for them to let you go. Here are some things that might help you keep your job or even get you promoted in due time:

Come to work early-

If your schedule is to work from 8-5, you are probably allowed arrive early. This shows your supervisor that you care and that you are committed to the company.

Stay late-

Nothing says "go-getter" more than making sure your work is finished before you go home. This can also be a mental stress reliever. What a nice feeling it is complete your work and have nothing to stress about when getting home. Being one of the last cars in the parking lot does get noticed by the higher ups in the company.

Take on additional responsibilities-

The more you volunteer for your employer, the more valuable you become to the company. A few weeks back I was speaking to a candidate who was in the finance field. A few years ago his company unveiled a new software enrollment program. When cuts came to his company in 2001 he avoided them, he was too valuable as he learned a new skill that was in demand. When seeking a job recently, he wasn’t looking for a job in finance; he was seeking a position in IT. When he took on the additional responsibilities, his company trained him in the new areas, and for the past 7 years has changed fields by volunteering.

Avoid Work Drama-

This one is pretty self-explanatory but needs to be said as well. When employees are not getting along and are distracting people from their work responsibilities, changes need to be made. If an employee is acting in a nonprofessional manner, tell your supervisor or if it is your direct supervisor, tell a human resource employee. In this economic downturn there is no need for office drama.

Times are tough-

If you are one of the lucky ones and have a job, do not jeopardize it. This is not the time to be outwardly seeking another job while employed. If a company is laying off, they will without a doubt, let go the person(s) that is seeking other employment. If you are exploring other avenues of employment, get your resume off the career sites, and refrain from mentioning it to your co-workers. The company might be deciding between you and the coworker you revealed your secret to on whom to layoff.

Some times there are no answers-

In some cases, massive cuts are necessary no matter how you perform. In these uncertain times there are several industries that unfortunately have had the need to eliminate jobs across the board. I have seen many great workers, in all areas, who have lost their jobs. If you are someone that currently has a position, please follow the steps above and hopefully they will work in time of recession. For those of you who have fell victim of the economy, do not hesitate in your job search.