Wise careerists recognize and face the fact that job security is a thing of the past. They keep their antenna on the alert for signs that their jobs may be in jeopardy. They have plans on hold to act if they get the pink sheet.
That’s common sense at work for career success.
There are obvious danger signs, such as mediocre or worse performance ratings. Business is going down for your employer. There are rumors that the company is in trouble. Employees are being laid off. Another company acquires your employer. Several managers have jumped ship.
The alarm bells are ringing
There are more subtle but no less significant red flags, according to Greg Gostanian, managing partner at ClearRock, an executive coaching and relocation firm,
1. Your supervisor and other colleagues don’t make direct eye contact with you as often as they used to. You are not invited to the coffee breaks. You are having lunch alone.
2. You have failed to carry out one or two of the most important tasks for which you were hired. Or those assignments are being removed or given to others.
3. People in other departments know more about what’s going on in your own area than you do.
4. You are no longer invited to meetings, consulted on plans, and discouraged from joining professional associations and professional organizations. You will not be copied on important messages.
Work tip: Always be prepared if things get safe
Even if the warning bells aren’t ringing for you right now, it pays to be prepared in case things turn sour. Put the positive power of negative thinking to work as you work toward your career goals.
1. Learn all you can about the state of your employer’s business.
2. Keep your resume up to date. Keep a file of your achievements and accolades.
3. Set aside enough money to support yourself until you can find another position.
4. Continue to learn new skills to keep up with the demands of an ever-changing job market.
5. Maintain contacts with key people who may need your talents. Be visible.
These five action steps will also serve your best interests throughout your career if the decision to look for a new job is entirely yours.