when the going gets tough… don’t lose your job.

Protecting your job in tough times

In the face of today’s shaky economic climate, those are lyrics — or words — to live by. After all, strong job performance can trump length of service even in the most buoyant times.

In businesses everywhere, rumblings about cost-cutting measures and potential layoffs have many workers wondering if their jobs are on the line. Even if you’re not feeling insecure quite yet, it’s wise to take precautions.

Begin with a solid understanding of your role in the team. “You need to know what your employer expects of you and your job,” says Sue Philchuk, vice-president and partner at Banyan Work Health Solutions, a disability management consulting company.

“When there’s lack of clarity, there’s a greater chance you’ll fail to hit the nail on the head,” she says. Make sure you have the appropriate resources and support needed to complete your responsibilities. “If you feel lost, go out and look for the resources or support you need and secure it.”

Be visible and vocal. “There are a lot of ways to ensure you have a good reputation,” says resume writer and interview coach Stephanie Clark of New Leaf Resumes. Speak up at staff meetings and research your industry so you’re on the ball about things like in-demand products and services.

Toot your own horn. “If you don’t have regular reviews, schedule time with your boss and let them know what you’ve accomplished,” Clark says. “Yours may be the kind of boss that only calls you in when things go wrong and may not notice the good things you’re doing.”

Falling short of expectations? Take action, such as voluntarily upgrading your skills. “Be the master of your own destiny,” Philchuk says.

Be a problem solver. “Employers love to see employees take initiative,” she says. “Volunteer for a project if you have the time and knowledge. Don’t wait to be asked … but be careful not to impact your work/life balance negatively. If you burn out, everything suffers. Pay attention to your energy level and what you’re accomplishing on all ends, including your family and community.”

Play nice. “Get along with people and don’t be rude … Go out of your way to mentor a new employee or someone who needs help,” Clark says. Remember the impression you wanted to create during your first days on the job: maintain a positive attitude, be respectful, dress professionally, leave personal problems at home, don’t gossip and don’t watch the clock.

If you’re still worried about your future despite your best efforts, address your concerns with your supervisor. “Talk to them about the challenges the company is facing, the corporate game plan and how you can help,” Philchuk says.

Not coping with the stress? Take advantage of confidential employee assistance programs designed to support employees in difficult times. “Some companies also offer lunch ‘n’ learn sessions on how to handle stress or conflict,” Philchuk says. “You might learn a lot.”

Don’t overlook the importance of networking within your department, with other departments and outside your company. “Even if you’ve done all you can to be a good employee, that doesn’t mean you may not be downsized,” Clark says. “Help ensure you’ll leave on good terms and have wonderful accomplishments on your resume.”

Speaking of resumes, make sure yours is up to date … just in case. “Monitor what you’re doing at work and keep a ‘brag’ file,” Clark says. “You don’t have to be looking for work to have effective self-marketing tools in place.”
GO THE EXTRA MILE

Protecting your job in tough economic times requires going the extra mile. Here are some suggestions:

Understand your responsibilities

Be visible and vocal

Toot your own horn

Upgrade your skills

Be a problem solver

Maintain a positive attitude

Research your industry

Network, network, network

Update your resume

This article is courtesy of Linda White and can be found in it’s original format at http://career.jobboom.com/survival-guide/2008/11/05/7312166.html.