The stock market has been up for the last two weeks but the job market has not changed and people are still out of work and people are still losing their jobs in record numbers. In the previous two posts, I talked about focusing on activity and having a positive attitude as two techniques that can help keep your job secure. Strategy tip number three is:
Become Indispensable: In the past, companies valued loyalty and when layoffs occurred it was typically the last one in, the first one to go scenario. Simply put, times have changes. Companies take a hard look at production numbers and who is bringing value. People who generate more and contribute more will be the ones who have a better chance of keeping their jobs. Making yourself indispensible means a lot more than just doing a good job. It means being vocal and visible and volunteering to take on extra assignments. It mean coming n early and staying late. It means eating lunch at your desk. It means asking your boss if he/she needs help with anything. I am a big proponent of work/life balance but right now you have to tip the scale more heavily on the work side. You have to act as if your job is the single most important thing in your life. Notice how I chose the word act, whether it is or not, you have to give of the impression that this is the case. Remember, your goal is to create the perception that your company can not survive without you.
I heard a good quote on Good Morning America today: “The sun always comes out after a storm.”
Keep that in mind as you try to get through another work day.
It’s tough in some jobs to be that indispensable person though, especially with all that computers can do these days. But that is just one more reason to be the dependable person as well.
If it comes down to you and someone else who works as good as you but you are easier to get along with, you are willing to stay late if needed etc etc. you will be the one to keep your job.