HOW TO KEEP YOUR JOB in a TOUGH ECONOMY

It’s never a good time to lose your job, but it’s especially tough these days during a down economy.  So, if you’re employed, you need to be doing everything possible to keep your job and stay employed.

For some great strategies, check out my latest TV interview on KPNX, the NBC affiliate in Phoenix. 

1. Exceed expectations. Here are a few career management strategies you can do RIGHT NOW to help you stay employed during this tough economy.     Being a good employee in this environment, may not be good enough.  A lot of companies are looking at weeding out those employees who may not be performing, so it’s more important than ever to bring your “A GAME” into work every single day, and be viewed as a major contributor. Look for ways you can exceed expectations.  That could be finishing a project early, or below budget, or exceeding a goal that you’ve set with your manager. 

   Make sure you’re focusing on delivering high quality and results, and that includes not only meeting, but exceeding goals.  

2. Be visible.  It’s more important that ever to get face time with your manager!  And that means weekly one-on-one meetings to make sure you’re aligned on goals and expectations, and that you’re focusing on the right priorities. 

Also, keep in mind that should your manager leave the company – you’re going to need other managers in your corner who can champion you.  So make sure that you keep department managers and senior leaders updated on your progress through status reports, project updates and presentations. 

3. Grow the money. It’s such a volatile market right now, all companies are scrutinizing over one thing:  how to stay in business. So if you can contribute towards growing the money within your organization – then you’ll be more likely to secure your job if downsizing occurs.

Focus your attention on helping grow market share, save costs, or generate more money.  Maybe you have an idea to tap into a new market, or a way to make a product even better…

It’s really looking at all of your strengths, talents and skills and asking yourself “What can I do to help the organization be even more successful?”

For even more quick coaching tips, follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/SherriThomas

Happy Holidays!
Sherri