Protect Your Job and Avoid a Layoff

Six Tips for Protecting Your Job and Avoiding Layoff

Do you think you and your job are safe from layoff? Every time we watch the news, we hear about more layoffs. Earlier in this series we have talked about Handling a Layoff - Survival of the Fittest as well as Ten Ways to Get Fired and Lose Your Job (find more of this series in the resources). In today's economy no jobs seem to be completely safe, but there are six things you can do to protect your job and avoid being laid off.

1. Make Yourself Indispensable at Work

Do the things that need to be done at work. Take some of the load off your supervisor or boss. Find out what your manager's weakest point is or what tasks he/she likes least, and offer to help in those areas. Make your supervisor's job easier, and you will be the last person he will want to lay off.

2. Be Committed at Work

Come in early and stay late. Turn projects in on time -- or early. Don't neglect your family, but being the most dependable and and dedicated employee can certainly strengthen your job security.

3. Be a Problem Solver at Work

Examine those things that cause stress, loss of revenue, or other problems at work and look for ways to solve those problems. If you can help make things run more smoothly and efficiently for your business, you may be able to save your job.

4. Cross Train at Work

Just like cross training helps strengthen you physically, cross training at work can strengthen your position at your job. Find out how to do more than your own job. Don't just consider moving higher in your own department; be available to move into a completely different area or to take on new responsibilities. Flexibility and preparation to take on another position can help protect you against layoff.

5. Be Profitable at Work

Profit isn't just for sales, although if you are in sales, go the extra mile to bring in another sale. If you are not in sales, look for ways to save your company money or to increase revenues. Make or save your company money, and you will increase your value at your job.

6. Communicate with Your Boss at Work