In the face of layoffs and restructuring in the current economic crisis, Annie Fisher of Fortune Magazine offers a 10-point survival guide for keeping your job - something many managers will be concerned about in the current climate.
Fisher enlists the help of executive coach Deb Bright, who says: "Even when things are really tough, you have more control than you think. For example, you still have customers. You still have chances every day to make an impact."
The ten points of advice are:
1. Create success for yourself - "When there's a lot of negativity around, you need to find ways to feel successful."
2. Set 30-day and 60-day goals - share them with your superiors and give updates.
3. Watch your attitude - don't succumb to pessimism.
4. Keep your network active - stay in touch and try to provide useful information.
5. Update your skills - Keep up to date with the latest information.
6. Ensure your work serves the larger goals of the organization - look to take on extra responsibility.
7. Temporarily forget about work-life balance - concentrate on becoming indispensable.
8. Examine your finances - decide on a budget and stick to it.
9. Don't badmouth people - stay positive or, at the least, neutral.
10. Remember, in the knowledge economy, you are the product - look after yourself physically and mentally.
Keep your job: A 10-point survival guide
Anne Fisher, Fortune, 07/01/09
