WCT #86: Your job’s on the chopping block. 8 actions you must do now (and why they work.)
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Think your job’s in jeopardy? Work-life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, you might sense that your position isn’t secure. Maybe your company is going through changes? Budgets are getting cut. Colleagues are slowly disappearing. Instead of letting anxiety get the best of you, take proactive steps to shore up your career. Here are eight things you should do if you think your job is in jeopardy.
1. 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Before you jump to conclusions, take a step back and assess the situation objectively. Has there been any official communication about layoffs or restructuring? Has there been public disclosure or simply chatter about poor financial results? Do you see subtle signs of cutbacks? Are colleagues experiencing similar concerns? Understanding the context will help you make informed decisions.
2. 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐞. Regardless of the outcome, keeping your resume and LinkedIn profile current is always a good idea. Highlight your recent achievements, skills, and any additional responsibilities you've taken on. This prepares you for a job search and showcases your value within the organization. And don’t rely on ChatGPT to rewrite your resume for you. ChatGPT isn’t going to ask you the insightful questions necessary to draw out your accomplishments and achievements like an expert resume writer can.
3. 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲. Networking is a powerful tool during uncertain times. It shouldn’t be only for moments when you’re forced into a search. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, and industry connections. Discuss your concerns and seek advice. Explore opportunities within your current company. Also, explore options outside your company. Comb job listings, supplementing applications with outreach to people at those companies. Attend industry events, and consider reaching out to recruitment agencies. Having a Plan B can ease the transition if your job situation becomes untenable or evaporates.
4. 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬. Invest in your professional growth. Identify skills that are in demand within your industry and company. Enroll in courses or workshops to acquire these skills. This enhances your job security AND makes you a more valuable asset to other employers. Bonus tip: your employer may have programs to pay for some or all of this upskilling.
5. 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫. Initiate a conversation with your supervisor about your concerns. Be respectful and diplomatic in your approach. Ask for feedback on your performance and inquire about the company's plans. This demonstrates your commitment and proactive attitude.
6. 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐍𝐞𝐭. Financial uncertainty can be one of the most stressful aspects of a job in jeopardy. Review your budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and build an emergency fund if you haven't already. Having a financial safety net provides peace of mind and flexibility in case of unexpected changes.
7. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤. Explore freelance or contract work opportunities as a way to diversify your income streams. This can provide financial stability while you search for a new permanent position. Additionally, freelance work can help you build new skills and expand your professional network.
8. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞. A positive mindset is crucial during uncertain times. Stay focused on your strengths and past achievements. Engage in activities that boost your morale and reduce stress. Confidence in your abilities can significantly affect how you handle job uncertainty and present yourself to potential employers.
The Bottom Line
Navigating job insecurity can be challenging, but it's not insurmountable. Assess the situation, update your professional profile, network actively, and invest in your skills. Maintain open communication with your supervisor, explore alternative opportunities, and bolster your financial stability. Remember, your career is a journey, and adaptability is a valuable trait. By taking these proactive steps, you'll be better prepared to face whatever the future holds in your professional life.
I help people land amazing jobs fast and manage their career journeys through coaching and advising. I also transform resumes and LinkedIn profiles to attract more interviews and offers. Learn more about my career coaching and contact me or request a free 15-minute Career Solutions Call.