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We are always trying to think of inventive ways to find jobs. But what about keeping your job?
In this economy, many businesses are laying off employees or, as in the case of companies like Borders, going defunct altogether.
It is no surprise that companies are trying to survive in this tricky economy. That may mean saving money, lowering expenses, mergers or changes in leadership, any of these factors could land you without a job.
Obviously, if the company doesn't have enough money to stay active, there is no way for you to keep your job. However, most companies would probably prefer to "let go" a few employees they think they can do without instead of going bankrupt.
Don't be one of these employees!
An interesting article recommends that you start proving to the company, as soon as you can, that you are vital to its success. It is a lot less likely that you could try and convince your employer once he or she has already given you notice. Anything is possible, but why tempt fate?
Here are some pointers recommended by the article:
1) Keep developing -- It is so easy to get into a rut when you've been at a company for awhile. I've even experienced this working for companies as little as one year! Why not set goals for yourself in your career? Set goals for your 1-year mark, 5-year or even 10-year mark.
2) Continue to learn -- Very much related to the above pointer. In fields like technology or medicine you can't help but continue your education because something new is always being introduced to the market. In a field like retail, for example, think of ways to stay on top of the current trends.
3) Go the extra mile -- Even if it's not in your job description, do it. Do it without your employer or another coworker asking you to do it. Don't get taken advantage of but sometimes doing a little extra can be productive and prove you have initiative.
4) Be visible -- Networking is always a plus. The more people you know, the wider your social circle is. You never know when that may come in handy.
5) Seek out high level mentors -- If possible, make friends with people who have a higher job position than you do and learn from them.
6) Speak the language of money -- This pointer is a bit abstract for me. In simpler terms I believe it means knowing what's important to your employer and contributing in a way that helps said employer achieve its objectives. All companies want to make a profit. If you can aid the employer in this goal you are that much more useful.
The article states that there is no "foolproof" way to secure your job. Yet, these are some ideas that will most likely get you noticed (in a positive way) by your employer.
By: Samantha Taylor
Samantha is a Boston, Massachusetts native. Her studies have taken her from Ohio to England, where she lived for two years. Currently, Samantha lives in Andalucía, Spain, with her husband. She is a writer for Nexxt and contributes to one of its many blogs: retailgig
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