10 Ways to Recession-Proof Your Career

With the current state of our economy at its weakest since the Great Depression, it’s not surprising that many individuals are nervous about losing their jobs. While the thought of this may have some of you running around in panic, I have gathered together a list of 10 simple things you can do to recession-proof your career.

1. Be visible. Unfortunately, now is not the time to take those extended vacation days. At this rate, your position may be eliminated while you are gone. Also, it’s important to find a way you can distinguish yourself positively from the crowd, and trust me…you won’t do this rolling into work 2 hours late.
2. Build your network. Current research suggests that 70 to 80 percent of jobs are found through networking. Go to special networking events within your industry and be sure to bring lots of business cards. Also, don’t forget to call, e-mail, and set up informal chats with family and friends. You never know – your dad’s college roommate’s son may be VP of the company of your dreams.
3. Get online. It’s important to have professional profiles on social networking sites, such as Facebook or LinkedIn, and update them often. These sites allow you to network with other individuals in your industry to give you some fresh, innovative ideas you can bring to your boss.
4. Give your personal best. Always be sure to give 110 percent; volunteer for extra work, stay late/come in earlier, and don’t complain! Times may be rough now, but all your extra work will pay off later when the economy turns up and it is time for a promotion.
5. Stay ahead of the curve. It is important to keep up to speed with what’s happening in your organization both internally, as well as externally. Stay on top of major shifts within your industry, anticipate change, and remain open to it. You are more likely to keep your position if you are able to demonstrate the ability to remain flexible.
6. Be in synch with your boss. This absolutely does not mean you need to suck up to your boss. This does mean that you need to learn how to flow with the ways he or she likes things to be done and present them well.
7. Take a class and build your skills. Consider going back to school for a higher degree, or just taking a class to stay on top of current trends in your industry. You need to make sure you remain competitive in your field – and furthering your education really shows your boss you are dedicated to your career and your performance.
8. Become a thought leader in your industry. Speak up at the next staff meeting and don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Be the first to start a blog at your company or volunteer to speak at your next industry conference.
9. Show them the money. Now, more than ever, bosses are most concerned with the company’s bottom line. Initiate brainstorm meetings with your boss and co-workers about ways to make and save money. If you place your focus on the company’s profit, your boss is more likely to pay more interest to you.
10. Be a winner, not a whiner! Find ways to do the work you don’t want to do by working alongside people you enjoy working with, or learn how to delegate the work to those who may enjoy doing it. It may be helpful to ask for a little more time to complete the work so you can learn how to do it in an enjoyable way.

Good Luck!

Christine

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