Monday, April 13, 2009

Who or What Provides My Job Security

In today's tumultuous economy, I am hearing a lot about job security and the lack thereof. It is true that we cannot count on our employers to provide jobs or security for us or for our families.

There are several things that we can do, however, to create the most "security" for ourselves.

1. Perform for your employer. Whether you are retained by your company or downsized, performance is what will help you land your next position. Remember, companies have more of a choice on whom they will hire so you can be certain they will be hiring those individuals that will provide the greatest return on their investment. You cannot count on your employer, however, you CAN count on yourself to bring value to that employer. Just because you may perceive that your employer isn't "loyal" to you, does not negate your responsibility to be loyal to them. I was always taught, "two wrongs don't make a right".

2. Keep documentation of your performance. This documentation is what helps you sell yourself to your next employer. Remember, EVERYONE says that they are #1 or the top performer in their department. Not everyone can produce the documentation to validate that claim.

3. Exude a great attitude. Having a great attitude will help maintain positive relationships. Those relationships are often leveraged through networking and references when you are in the middle of a job search. Never underestimate the power of your own attitude and how it impacts your business relationships.

4. Have an unmatched work ethic. Be a person who is known for going the extra mile. Be known for excellence in your job. Most employees only do enough to "get by". The person who goes the extra mile is typically the person that can land a great job even in a rough economy.

5. Be known as someone that responds quickly. What is the old cliche, "the early bird gets the worm". In this economy especially, be known as a person that follows up and follows up fast.

6. Prepare for a rainy day. Don't spend all you earn. If you are a victim of corporate restructure, a "safety net" will help carry you through until you land that next great position. Often times we live as if we think "it won't rain on me". Well my friends, it rains on all of us and the more prepared we are for that rain, the more we can calmly develop an effective strategy for getting out of the rain.

Bottom line, this country still has 90% employment! Don't get caught up in the unemployment mentality. There will always be a need for great people to propel great companies forward.

Xodus Advantage serves as expert partners to individuals from the time they contemplate a potential career/job change, through the planning and transition phases. We specialize in making the change process positive and practical by empowering the individual to excel in their job campaign strategies. We are committed to seeing a successful career transition.

Our job campaign services include:
Assessing the individual and their career desires
Personal/Professional Branding Strategies
Job Campaign Initiatives
Resume/Cover letter/Brag Book Portfolio Enhancements
Strategic Interview Prep/Coaching
Honing verbal, non-verbal and written communication skills
Business letter writing and follow-up strategies
Interpersonal effectiveness
Networking contacts – recruiters, companies, etc.
Offer negotiation skills

When individuals find themselves on the job market or interested in a career transition, they are typically very uncertain. It is always nice to offer them the “voice of calm” plus real-world practical strategies to accelerate their down time during the transition.

For a free 30 minute consultation, please contact:Lori Harbeck - lori@xodusadvantage.com
Janet Blumen - janet@xodusadvantage.com

Thank you for putting Xodus Advantage on your job search team!

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