In the wake of significant layoffs, many workers are
understandably concerned about job security. However, even in the face
of such uncertainty, there are some steps everyone can take to avoid a
pink slip.
Jeffrey Christian, CEO of Christian & Timbers, a
top-ten ranked global executive search firm, advises, "Although it
may be really tough right now, you have to drive forward and be more productive
than your peers. Simply find a way to get more done. Put aside that you
feel deflated and redirect your emotions to being more productive. Relentlessly
pound out whatever it is that achieves results."
Here are Christian’s suggestions on how to bring value
to your company—and to make sure that your boss takes notice.
1. Become a trusted, irreplaceable advisor to your
boss. Be key to helping him or her make decisions and get things done.
Make your boss a success. As a trusted advisor, you become indispensable
to your boss and the organization.
2. Look busy. This isn't cynical advice. The
real advice is—be busy. Find out what is important to your boss or
your company and do it. When work slows down, it is critically important
to stay in the mainstream of the remaining workflow. Seek out projects.
Ask people if they need help. Make it clear to those around you that you
want to be busy.
3. Get in early and stay late. Even if the workflow
in your company diminishes, don't cut back on your hours. Your presence
in the office, both early in the morning and after most people have left
for the night, sends a strong message that you are busy, that you're ready
to pitch in and that you can be trusted to do whatever it takes to get
the work done.
4. Become more important to your customers. Servicing
your customers' needs, beyond the specific confines of your relationship
with them, is an essential component to success in any economic climate.
During a recession, when customers will be reevaluating their relationships
with all their suppliers and service providers, those who add value will
be most likely to win out. This may mean working with your customers or
clients to understand their broader strategic goals and to introduce them
to other people or companies that can help them achieve those goals
5. Figure out how to save money. Every company
is looking for ways to help its bottom line by cutting expenses. Doing
your job in a more cost-efficient manner is an important way to add value.
6. Become a valued coach and mentor. People bring
value to their companies not simply by performing the job that they have
been assigned to do, but also by helping other employees perform better.
Mentoring other employees helps transmit job skills and company culture
and builds a cohesive workforce. These are assets that every employer
values.
7. Be confident. No matter how hard you work,
how late you stay or how much value you add to the company, it will all
go unnoticed if you project insecurity and fear. Of course, false bravado
wears thin quickly, so confidence must be backed up with real skill and
commitment. Nonetheless, an assured demeanor will take you far.
For additional information on Christian & Timbers,
visit www.ctnet.com
If you'd like to become even more valuable to your
organization, consider these AMA seminars:
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