Want to Keep Your Admin Job? Some "Street Rules" of Survival.

by Alex A. Kecskes

In today's bad economy, administrative positions are among the first to be cut. It's unfair and it sometimes doesn't make sense, but unless you're at the very top of the totem pole, you are vulnerable. So what can you do to avoid the cost-cutting ax? Some suggestions:

Don't Complain. Even if things are out of control. Now is not the time to make a noise. Let the other guy send out those "rock-the-boat" emails. Just do your job the best way you know how. Work around the difficulties. Ignore the open door policy or suggestion box. If the boss asks how things are going, answer with "fine, fantastic, great." Let the other guy trouble the boss with how bad he thinks things are and ways to "improve" them. Bosses and upper management have enough on their hands right now. They don't want to be squeezed at both ends. Besides, most solutions typically cost money, require more paperwork, or call for less staff—all big negatives right now.

Blend in. In good times when corporate coffers are bulging, being the fair-haired wunderkind may win you some brownie points. Not today. Your co-workers will read between the lines and suspect you're trying to make them look bad. Perception is reality and they'll do what they can to "return the favor." So don't do any more or less that what is expected of you. Unless the boss specifically asks you, stick to the job description.

Be Happy to Work Nights, Weekends. Chances are your organization or department has already cut staff. The fact that you're still there is a good sign. Don't blow it by complaining about picking up the slack and working nights or weekends. You don't have to volunteer, but if asked, do it and be nice about it.

Take a salary cut with a smile. Again, no need to volunteer or even mention the word, but if the boss asks you to take a salary cut, smile and take it. Let the other workers complain about their cut, make them stand out as ungrateful to have a job. (Some have suggested you volunteer to take a cut, but news of this spreads like a bad cold, and your co-workers could conspire to have you axed.)

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