By Jan Kearbey - Director of Agency Relations

Dear Jan,
We are nearing the end of the year, and I’m still concerned about the recession and the continued layoffs in the business. Are there any steps I can take to reinforce my position with the agency?
Concerned Connie

Dear Connie,
The first thing that comes to mind from your question is a quote I just read in an article about the current recession. "It’s a recession when your neighbor loses his job. It’s a depression when you lose your own." Harry S. Truman. Obviously, the current economic condition has caused a lot of conversations about recession and depression, depending on where you are in the employment scheme of things. The facts are simple: regardless of your performance, if your employer needs to lay staff off in order to keep the doors open, you may be a casualty. I’m sure you can think of instances where an entire department has been eliminated or individuals with high compensation packages have suddenly been removed. In most cases it is neither personal nor performance based. Having said that, I do believe that it is important to remember a few key factors that may indeed keep you from the list when cuts are required.

Be Known for Your POSITIVE Attitude
Whether it is a weak economy or a strong economy, your attitude will go a long way toward keeping you at the top of the list of performers that are needed in the organization. Obviously, in tough times morale will suffer, and managers want and need employees who continue to be a positive example for co-workers. It only makes sense that employees who appear to enjoy what they are doing would survive better than an employee who is constantly griping. Remember, the glass is half full…or at least "fake it ‘till you make it."

Stay Prepared Just in Case,
Again, because there are no guarantees of employment, it is a good idea to stay prepared. If you were told tomorrow that you would be laid off in one month, three months, or six months, I would venture to say you would take some steps immediately to update your resume and reconnect with former bosses, colleagues, and business associates. It is so much better if you maintain an updated resume and a good networking system during your career rather than waiting until a need arises.

Build on Your Skills
Everyone can learn a new skill that adds value to their position. Take the time to review your existing skill sets and identify capabilities that would make you more effective in your current job. You might want to look at skills that would allow you to take on other responsibilities in your firm. This could be something as simple as Excel, advanced Word, desktop publishing, or digging in and fully understanding how your current software could be used better.

Continue to Perform at Your Best
You were no doubt hired because of the anticipation of a strong work ethic—coming to work on time, offering to work longer hours when necessary, and assisting others by being a team player. Keep it up! Be visible as someone who can be depended on. Be at the top of your game and don’t be embarrassed to make sure your manager is aware of your contributions. ( I would recommend that you do this tactfully so you don’t come across as obnoxious.) Make sure your work reputation keeps you in a favorable light.

Regardless of whether you are in a down economy or an up economy, maintaining a job may be completely out of your control. The best "recession proofing" you can do is simply perform at a level that is beyond what is expected of you at work. Your reputation, your work ethic, your attitude, and your performance all play a part in determining how valuable you are to your company. The good news is that all of these factors are within your control.