Smart Tips for Holding On To Your Job in a Recession
Recently the news has been filled with reports of layoffs and job cuts. According to the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants, if you’re concerned about job security, there are some steps you can take to recession-proof your career.
Now is the perfect time to increase your visibility. Aim for excellence in everything you do. Develop a reputation for reliability, cooperation, timeliness and any other positive attributes bosses values most. In short, even if you were doing a great job before, try to work even harder to prove just how indispensable you are.
If you’ve been keeping strict 9-to-5 hours, it may be time to consider a change in habits. Getting in early and staying late can impress a supervisor and demonstrate your commitment to the job. If your boss is looking for volunteers for a new project, make sure to get on the list. Try to maintain a realistically cheerful attitude that has a positive influence on co-workers and whenever possible, go the extra mile so your boss knows who can be counted on at all times.
Don’t be shy about accomplishments. In fact, it’s a good idea to create a list of achievements, with specific details about the contribution you’ve made. For example, if you’re directly involved in sales or budgeting, add up the money you’ve brought into the company or helped save it. If you’re in an administrative job, perhaps your ideas for changing work flow department have cut down on the time needed to complete projects. No matter what the situation, be aware of all the good work you have done — and be ready to talk about it. When these subjects come up, don’t hesitate to remind your boss about the contributions you’ve made. If your company is on the verge of layoffs, consider meeting with your boss to explain in detail the positive things you’ve brought to the table and what you can add in the future.
Many companies are offering employees pay cuts or unpaid furloughs as a way to avoid outright layoffs. Taking home less money for the same job doesn’t sound like a good deal, but it may be right now. Employment can be hard to find in a recession and you lose out on your entire salary during the weeks — and perhaps months — that it may take you to find a new position. That’s why a pay cut or furlough may be a good compromise for both of you. In fact, if you are subject to a layoff, try offering to work for reduced pay instead. Companies are usually reluctant to lay off good workers but may feel they have no other choice — unless you give them one.
If you would like additional information about overcoming a financial crisis, reducing taxable income and other financial topics, don’t miss “Do It Herself: A Journey to Financial Freedom,” the ultimate one-day financial makeover for only $15. Visit www.KnowWhatCounts.org for additional information and registration, or call (800) 522-8261, ext. 3829.
With more than 6,600 members in public practice, industry, government and education, the OSCPA is Oklahoma’s only statewide professional association of s. Since 1918, the organization has continued to provide professional education, conduct quality reviews and promote and maintain high standards of integrity and competence within the accounting profession. Visit www.KnowWhatCounts.org for more financial tips and a free referral and free consultation.
Updated 08-12-2009
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