By Dorcas Karuana,
We live in an uncertain world. You may have a great job right now, but you never know how long you are really going to have it. There is very limited job security anymore. Many companies do have layoffs especially when profits start to slip a bit and the growth of the business begins to stall. For most of us , the last thing you want to happen when you’re working is termination. After all, it means you no longer have a job. You will no longer receive any salary, and you’ll be one of those unemployed who have to submit resumes and wait for other employers to take notice of you. Termination can also reduce your morale and even damage your reputation.
1. Have your CV ready. Keep your resume updated. It’s a good idea to always be prepared with an updated resume in case anything happens or anything better comes up for you. For example, if you know that your organization is in the process of layoffs or you are looking out for new job opportunities, then prepare for it. Start off by updating your contact information such as numbers, or even a new email address. Make notes of rewards and accomplishments that you have received since the last time you updated this document. Get recommendations from people right now. Having letters of recommendation on hand is smart so you will always be ready to go to an interview without waiting for someone to write a letter. Update your references. Make sure your references are reputable people that know your character. It is a good idea to let them know you will be using them for a reference so they aren’t taken by surprise when they get a phone call.
2. Keep your networks ready. About 60% of the jobs are never advertised; they come in an informal way. Therefore, networks here works for many people. Networking is all about making full use of your contacts whether professional or personal to help you in getting better job opportunities or to make new contacts that will help your search by bringing you more interview calls. Nurse your contacts, at least get in touch with your networks twice in a month to ensure that you are noticed and remembered next time they have any openings. For example, through telephone calls or sending a text message, friendly visits like meeting up the contacts over a coffee or a drink or sending an email and keep track of them so that you can make full use of the replies that you receive.
3. Develop yourself career wise. Stay on top of the game by getting more skills and knowledge in your field. Do not be complacent with what you have or what you are in a company. Plan for growth in your career: by getting short courses or furthering your studies to get that extra certificate. In addition, attending trainings/ workshops will also help you acquire some skills as well as give you an opportunity to network, meet potential employers. These may be sponsored by the employer or by your own self.
4. Deliver in your current job. – The best way to get your boss notice is through results. Delivering in your work will make you an employee that no employer wants to loose. Let your work outcome be noticed both internally and externally. You become a brand that everyone would want to have in his/her company. For internal, good results will help you negotiate for a pay rise and probably earn you a promotion. On the other hand, externally people will recognize your dedication and output, whether suppliers or customers who can be potential employers or can give you referrals.
No one wants to have to search for a new job, but if you are prepared, you will be ready to look for employment if the need arises. However be prepared for this day.
Dorcas is a Recruitment Officer. Corporate Staffing Services. email: dorcas@corporatestaffing.co.ke. Web address. www.corporatestaffing.co.ke
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