Preparing for a Layoff

I recently wrote an article about what you can do to prepare yourself financially in the event of a layoff.  I’d like to continue that conversation about what you can do personally and professionally to avoid the possibility of losing your position and what you can do if you do get the axe.

Polish Your Resume- If you don’t have a resume, now would be a great time to get started on one.  I like to look over mine every few months in order to update and add information.  Look it over again, as it is possible that you may have made a mistake somewhere, or your choice of wording may be weak.  The last time I updated my resume, I kept asking myself, “What was I thinking!?” and spent 6 hours completely revamping it.

Take college courses- Taking college courses is a good way to brush up your skills and open your mind to new possibilities.  There are classes for public speaking, mathematics, courses for people with basic to advanced computer skills and courses to fit practically any interest.  I highly recommend getting involved in education.  Not only will it help you in your career, but also in your personal life as well.

Begin Your Job Search Early- If you expect or know that you will be losing your job, start looking for work as early as possible.  The more time you allow yourself to look for work, the less pressured you will feel in taking a job that isn’t right for you.  You may even find a better job than the one you have now.  Sometimes we only stay at a job because we have become comfortable and secure in our positions.  We neglect to consider that there are better opportunities available, we just need to look for them.  Finding a suitable job at present will take more time and will be more difficult to come by.  The competition will be fierce.  You will need as much time as possible, so start early.

Make Yourself Irreplaceable- The reality is that we are all disposable, but that doesn’t mean you should behave that way.  Show your boss that you are a key player in your companies success.  Take on extra assignments, work in developing a new product line, whatever you need to do in order to show that you are there to do your job and do it well.  Companies love team players.  Why?  They make money.  On the other hand, don’t be the person who complains often and/or loudly.  Offering constructive criticism is okay, though it would be better that you offer a solution to complement your concerns.  Your managers and supervisors have enough to worry about without someone complaining.  Give them a break, and a hand.

Make friends- Networking is a great way to open doors to opportunity.  Just knowing “so and so” is sometimes all it takes to get your foot in the door.  The more people you know, the better off you are.  Get out there and meet people!  Even if some of the people don’t directly lead to job opportunities, meeting new people and making new friends is a great way to improve your social life.  In times like these, sometimes all you can really count on are your friends, and the more you have, the better!

What suggestions do you have for preparing for a layoff or for preparing to change jobs or careers?