Taking Care of Business in Times of Uncertainty

Keeping a little ahead of conditions is one of the secrets of business

                                                                                                       -Charles M. Schwab

     Working in times of uncertainty can be stressful.  Hearing rumors of layoffs, seeing the increase in “behind closed doors” meetings, and watching colleagues pack up their desk and be escorted out of the building inevitably leads to questions. “Are the cuts over?” “Who’s next?” “Am I safe?” Add to that the recent news of layoffs in well-known financial companies, telecomunications, transportation, technology and news media, and one starts to wonder if there are any options available for long and secure employment.  Even if you hang on to your job this time, the uncertainty still seems to linger until trust and security are restored with time.

     I’ve watched employees cope with these circumstances in a variety of ways in my own organization– some go into denial and pretend all is well; others feel that they are untouchable and have nothing to fear; some feel trapped, immobilized and powerless to take any action at all; while others take action immediately to start a job search – both internal and external.  Unfortunately, a few of the first three types of employees were recently let go and none of them had a back up plan to get re-employed quickly.  Those with a proactive approach had started a job search and landed on their feet with no major gap in employment. They were thinking a little ahead of conditions and taking care of their business.

     I know it takes energy and effort to press into the reality of a restructuring.  And the other reality is that not everyone gets let go….so you just don’t know if it is you that may be cut or the person in the space next to yours.  The good news is there are things you can do to empower yourself in times of uncertainty - whether you are the one who gets cut or the one who survives. These things are actually simple – keep ahead of conditions, take some action, and take care of your business!

     Action has a way of pushing through your denial, fear, and powerlessness so that you are in a position to make decisions for yourself rather than having your company make them for you.  Your company will take care of its business; it is up to you to take care of yours.  Here are some actions you can take during hard times to shift from denial, powerless, and immobilized to confident, knowing you will land on your feet and be ok no matter what happens:

• Take time to document accomplishments.  Seeing yourself on paper brings home just how much you have to offer either at your current job or your next job – this will build your confidence and improve your overall outlook.
• Prepare a resume.  This will further polish your accomplishments and provide some relief that it is done and ready, when and if needed.
• Start a job search.  The simple act of looking, even casually, can open up possibilites you never thought about for alternative employment.  It will also instantly give you relief just knowing that you actually have options to pursue and are not stuck where you are.
• Take time to network.  Meet with colleagues to see what is out there and have some fun while doing so!  Connecting with people and discussing your concerns is always helpful in uncertain times.
• Apply for some jobs.  Seeking alternatives will help you to gain perspective on your current situation.  Applying for jobs and going on interviews doesn’t mean you have to take a job, if offered.  And if you choose to stay at your current job, it will be by choice. Having choice leads to feeling empowered. And who knows, you may just find a better opportunity!

     If you are feeling uncertain about your job, you don’t have to stay stuck and feel that you have no options.  Start taking action today by paying attention to conditions and taking care of your business!

Thanks for taking the time to read this Inspiration today.  Feel free to post a comment. I look forward to hearing from you and supporting your job search!

Warm regards,