How to Recession Proof your Career

Category: Influence Savvy

“I guess I will just have to continue to work hard, and hope for the best.” This is a comment I overheard when someone was discussing their job stability. It made the hair on my neck stand up.

The economy is in turmoil. No one really knows where things will settle down. Despite Congress approving a bailout plan, stocks are continuing to fall and the economy is continuing its downward spiral. Now is not the time to “just continue to do the same.” Now is the time for U.S. citizens to focus on recession-proofing their careers.

In these tough financial times, many of us are worried about keeping our jobs. People need to make sure they’re brushing up their skills so that, even with so many cutbacks happening, their companies will see them as the valuable assets that they are.

Here are four steps that people can take that will recession-proof their skill sets, starting with enhancing their existing skills.

Step one. Don’t just do what you’ve always done, but enhance your skills. For example, take the computer programs you’re already using and advance your skills. Maximize your productivity with all the technology available to you. Learn new, complimentary programs. By using all the productivity enhancing features that the technology you have on your desktop, you’ll most likely find more hours to be truly productive and valuable.

Many people learn “just enough” to get their jobs done. Take stock in your existing skills and challenge yourself to take some of them to the next level. As an example, if you know how to use your electronic calendar – kinda sorta – take it up a notch. Take advantage of the tutorials your office technology provides. The efficiencies you gain will enable you to focus on more important stuff.

Second. Take a second step and broaden their skills and knowledge. Step one was about “going deep.” Step two is about “going wide.” Branch out and try taking on new responsibilities, and to volunteer for new things. Volunteer for new projects, and do it quickly. Volunteer for the stuff no one else wants to do. Not only will management appreciate it, you’ll learn something in the process. The more you’re willing to stretch yourself and the more things you’re willing to try, the more valuable you become to your employer. Oh, and by the way, the more extensive your resume becomes.

Third. Lead. Once you show that you’re willing to take on new and different projects, the next step is to continue to develop leadership skills. Some people think that leadership is just for supervisors and managers. Hogwash. Everyone can use leadership skills to add value to their company. Businesses need informal leaders as much as they need “anointed” ones. Take on every opportunity available to you to lead a group or committee, and, if the opportunity doesn’t arise at work, seek opportunities out in the community. Every time you lead something, you learn more about the ability to influence others. And positive influence is a skill that is universally valued.

Step four. Update your resume. We’re not saying to imply that you’ll need to look for another job; the reverse. A recession proofing career strategy is for you to make sure that your resume reflects the track record of a valued company asset. Review your resume with a discerning eye – find the skill gaps and figure out how to fill them in. As an example, if you think your resume could reflect more leadership experience, volunteer to head up your company’s next charity event, or coordinate the holiday party. If nothing appears to be available within the company, become a Girl Scout leader, lead a fundraising event in your community, or be the point person on a blood drive.

What kind of story does your work experience and resume tell? Make sure that it’s a well-rounded and up-to-date story, and your skills will help carry you through these rocky times.

The point is, when things are changing, you’ve gotta change. Letting life happen to you just won’t get you where you want to go. Take the initiative to broaden and deepen your skills, build your leadership skills, and sharpen your resume. Before you can lead others, you’ve got to lead your own life.