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Improving Effectiveness by Overcoming Work and Information Overload |
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Thoughts and Tips to Recession Proof Your Career Salutation:
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Thoughts |
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Relax! It is not as bad as the media leads us to believe. This was the theme of a recent National Post editorial. We survived1982, 1992, and 2000 and we will survive this one too. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that there are over 300,000 unfilled, skilled knowledge workers jobs. Yes, these are tough times and each of us must be wise to deliver maximum value wherever we may be. In such times there are also good lessons to be learned. During the 1982 recession my older brother had an international role with PPG industries. As a man in his mid 50’s, with layoffs all around him, he was concerned for his job. Speaking with a close friend who was a Senior VP he asked “Joe, is my job at risk?” Joe replied, “Any morning you wake up and sincerely believe that you cannot give to the company more than you are paid, you should look for another job; otherwise, don’t worry about it.” In 1992 Canada was in a recession. My employer for 12 years was restructuring and my role was greatly in doubt. With two children and a big mortgage, I looked in the mirror one morning and remembered my brother’s lesson. While blaming my employer for management mistakes, I neglected to take ownership for my own value contribution in a changing world. Stress gripped me as I realized I had to take action. I approached my boss in honest discussions that led to a change that is among the best I ever made. |
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Tips |
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Make peace with reality: § Organizations do not lay off good people they need and who contribute good value; if they do, they are foolish and you do not want to be there.§ The market and organizations are in constant and rapid change and you must keep pace. What should you do? At all times, spend 10% of your time looking for your next job or responsibility.o Keep your accomplishment based résumé up-to-date. Every 3 months update your accomplishments and if there is nothing to update, you must honestly ask what must be changed.o Keep growing. In light of the changing world write a 6, 12, 24 and a 36 month flexible career track. If you are not being stretched, you may not be growing. If you are not growing, you may risk being left behind.o Keep learning. The shelf life of most information, knowledge and technology is very short. If you are not reading, then how are you learning?o Keep your credible network alive. Invest in quality relationships. Spend much time with your important people. Important people are those who help you develop and define your roles and/or are critical to achieving your goals. Avoid draining people who complain a lot.o Keep your life alive. You work to live, not live to work. Make sure you have a life to enjoy.o Keep financial stress at bay. Even the best plans experience unfortunate surprises. When these happen your decision ability is best when financial stresses are absent. Create a survival budget and keep it handy. This along with a 3 to 6 month contingency fund will protect your sanity in tough times.The best of life lessons are often learned in tough times. These are tough times. If, like me, you have not fully mastered the above tips, don’t be discouraged. When it comes to career management progress, not perfection, should be the goal. |
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