5 Ways to Keep Your Job

Brush up on your skills, experience and education. What's missing from your resume? What can make you more valuable to your employer? Identify a class to take, a work project to volunteer for. It is time and money well spent.

2) Make yourself indispensable

Pitch in on extra projects, work overtime if needed. Ask your boss how you can help during these tough times. Let them know you are there, and are willing to do what it takes to help the company pull through.

3) Define your unique skill set

What makes you stand out from your peers in your industry? What unique skill(s) do you possess that you can leverage during this time to demonstrate your value and worth to your employer? Identify it - communicate it - leverage it.

4) Be proactive - network now

Expand your network now. Develop alliances within your industry - for yourself and your company. Team up to generate new business or collaborate on projects. This network will also come in handy if you are laid off later on. Networking is still the best way to find a job.

5) To prepare for the worst case scenario

a. Network everywhere: Professional associations, job hunting groups, social groups, even your church. Utilize discussion and networking forums online like www.linkedin.com.

b. Create a backup plan: What can you do financially to cover yourself in case you do get laid off? Put extra cash into savings. Cut back on certain expenses. Find a way to make it happen. (Look for more on this in our next issue...)

It is possible to stay afloat in this tough economy.