Reduce Your Chances of Getting Laid Off In a Down Economy

These days, we’re all a little on edge about the immediate future of our jobs. Lay-offs are happening right and left and we seem to have so little control over it. While this may be true, we do have control over our “lay-off potential.” This article will not tell you how to prevent yourself from getting laid-off, as I do not have that kind of power, but it will give you a few tips to keep in mind so that when it comes time to terminate employees, you’re the last person they want to let go.

5 ways to reduce your risk:

1. Get work done immediately. When you are given a task to complete, do it right away! Even if your deadline isn’t for another two weeks, why wait that long? This shows your boss that you waste no time when you’re at work. Of course, you still should practice your time management skills if you’re given a great deal of work to do — not everything can be done at the same time. Put each deadline in its own compartment and tackle the job that is the most important first. Don’t sacrifice the quality of your work for the sake of impressing your boss with your speed. Just make sure nothing is overdue.
2. Stay friendly with the powers that be. No need to go to any great lengths to become as thick as thieves with the bosses but don’t be a stranger. It’s easy to feel intimidated by all the higher-ups especially if a dark cloud seems to be looming over the company. Put on a friendly face when you see them. Greet them when you pass by in the office and stay personable if they approach you. Become someone that the genuinely like as a worker and a person. It can benefit you during the hardships.
3. Check in with your boss frequently. Especially if a lay-off is in sight and that’s got you’re knees shaking a little bit, make sure you are doing everything you can to help the company prosper. Who better to ask how than your boss? If the economy is affecting a company, chances are the boss will get in touch with all of the employees and let them know what they need to do in order to pull through as a team. Even if you are approached first it can only help you to ask to speak to your boss one-on-one as well. Tell him that you understand there is much to be done as a team of employees but you want some personal feedback. What is it that you can do to benefit the company? Is there anything you have done so far that could be done better? Quicker? Your boss will think more highly of you if you approach him this way, and you’ll receive some constructive criticism in the process.
4. Keep in touch with your boss’ bosses. Some of these people might not even know who you are. Change that. If you’ve done some work that you are particularly proud of, copy your boss’ boss onto an email correspondence regarding the job that was done. Keep them in the light about the work you do and make them realize that you are a valuable member of their staff.
5. Go above and beyond. This little piece of advice has become such a cliche, but it is tried and true. Do more than what is asked of you. This could also relate to my first point about getting work done earlier than expected. Any notes you have taken or research you have done regarding a task, send it to whoever you answer to. The more information they have to work with the easier their job becomes, and they’ll take note of that.

Amid challenging times for employees, focusing on methods to counter hostile work environments is directly related to the importance of personal branding. In a downturn economy, your personal brand becomes even more critical, as it reflects your resilience and adaptability. By actively addressing and mitigating hostile work environments, you not only protect your personal brand but also demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and a positive workplace, which can enhance your value to upper management and potential employers. Taking precautions to foster a healthy work environment and navigate challenges tactfully aligns with the broader goal of polishing your personal brand and thriving in a competitive job market.

Adrienne is a Syracuse University student from Danbury, CT majoring in Writing and Rhetoric with a Leadership Communication minor. She is a big fan of impressionist art, ocean views and classic rock. She hopes to one day have her name in the credits of a hit film whether behind the scenes or in front of the camera.