Previously, I said that foreclosure should be the word of the year [1], but I'm thinking that I should have said "layoff" instead. Depressing as it may be, big companies are continuing large layoffs through this holiday season and I can't figure out a better time to figure out the formula for holding on to the jobs we have. Fortune says there are five main points [2] to consider when protecting yourself from job loss, and I'd like to think the respected business publication knows its stuff.
- Be visible. It's not enough to work hard, advises Fortune: "Unless you know that what you're doing is appreciated and noticed, don't bother."
- Don't be a maverick. Right now, managers "are looking to focus on what's core. This is not the time to throw yourself in an unauthorized direction."
See three more of Fortune's tips when you .
- Manage yourself. If your boss is overworked and anxious, "find work for yourself: Take on a new project or make another visible contribution."
- Network. According to the story, "people tend to become more insular. Make sure you're having two networking meetings a week outside the office."
- Don't blow off the Christmas party. Since holiday parties are being scaled back, "if you still have one, your boss probably had to fight for it — and may take it personally if you skip it."
Source [3]