Several weeks ago, you may have allowed yourself the luxury of thinking about finding a new position. Can't stand my boss, want more meaningful work, a better commute, higher pay.
Now, with 401k's turning into 201k's, you have abandoned such thoughts, haven't you? You're hoping that you can survive this economic instability (okay... mess) with your job intact. Maybe you're telling yourself, my job isn't so bad... what was even thinking? Leave my job and my generous/kind boss?!?
What if you get fired? What if tomorrow you are called into HR, walk in to a room with a group of somber looking co-workers who tell you, "This isn't your fault, it's a business decision. We're going to have to let you go."
What if they cannot pay you a severance?
An old saying states, "Hope for the best; prepare for the worst." So how do you prepare for the worst?
- Update your resume. Invest your time in thinking about your accomplishments, the projects in which you participated, and your unpaid work. The best accomplishments are ones that you can quantify.
- Think about who you will ask to serve on your list of references.
- Is your contact management system up-to-date? (What is a contact management system??) It can be as simple as a basket full of business cards (I confess - this was my 'system.') or your email address book.
- Have you stayed in touch with friends and colleagues? Perhaps now is a good time to reconnect - coffee before work, lunch with friends. You will be glad that you have made the time and effort IN CASE the 'What If" happens.
What if you are stuck and can't get moving to prepare for the worst? A good career coach can partner with you on your journey.
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