This past February, CNN Money reported that companies made the deepest cuts in staffing in almost five years. The economy has many people worried about losing their jobs; some folks have already lost theirs. This can be a very nerve–racking time. Whether you are in danger of being cut or simply want to stay on top of the game, here are a few helpful hints for every employee.
1. BE A FAMILIAR FACE. Make a point of walking past your boss’s office or sticking your head in the door to say hello. Don’t avoid office meetings or parties, but do avoid taking long vacations right now. You should also avoid partying too heartily during Fiesta (unless you’re with your boss!)
2. GO THE EXTRA MILE. When companies are re–evaluating their staff and making possible cuts, you can keep yourself off the “hit list” by being a model employee. Karen Thomas, sales business manager for KENS TV, states: “I am always noticing which of my employees come in early and leave late; those things really matter to management.” So come in early, stay late, don’t take long breaks, get along well with your co–workers, and don’t complain! This does not mean you should never state your opinion, but as Zig Ziglar states, “You can disagree without being disagreeable.” You want to be the employee who searches for solutions, rather than just pointing out problems. In this way, you will be viewed as a valuable employee.
3. HELP YOUR COMPANY SAVE MONEY. If your office cuts back on their budget, work with it. Present your boss with great ideas that are also cheap – the golden combination every boss wants to hear. Stay in less expensive hotels when you’re traveling for business. Throw creative office parties that are easy on the pocketbook. The ways of cutting back are endless, and if your company can trim the operating budget in these areas, they are less likely to trim the budget via staff cuts.
4. KILL TWO BIRDS WITH ONE STONE. Constantly find ways to show your employer that you are versatile. As Liz Wolgemuth wrote in the March 24, 2008 issue of U.S. News and World Report: “When profits and payrolls get thin, bosses look favorably on 'utility players’ who can handle a variety of roles.” A local example of this is photographer Andrew Norwood, who shoots stories for CBS, but does much more than just photo– graph things. He can also produce a story, write a story, and handle clients like a PR pro. If his job as a photographer went away tomorrow, he would have many other options for work. This versatility has made him valuable to his company. Likewise, if you are adaptable to your surroundings, you will increase your value and, consequently, your job security.
Despite their best efforts, however, some employees will still find themselves in the position of being laid off. If it happens to you, make the most of your time between jobs by taking classes related to your industry, attending lectures related to your career field, or volunteering for a professional orga– nization. These activities will not only sharpen your skills while you are out of work, but they will also look great on your resume. Consider taking an internship or part–time job in your field, even if it isn’t your first choice for a career move. Such interim jobs can help you network with individuals in your industry and may even result in the offer of a full–time job. For Texans, there is good news. Texas Workforce Commissioner Ronny Congleton reports, “Texas is the place to be for those seeking news jobs.” Texas and specifically San Antonio, though somewhat affected by the slowing of the national economy, have continued to see a growth economically. Stay positive and stay on top of your game. Some great job resources for San Antonio residents can be found on the web at: www.worksanantonio.com, www.alamoworksource.org, and www.sanantonio.gov.
