Are You Personally Prepared if Your Organization Downsizes? - The New Now

By Chelle Shell

On July 1st, 2009 the US Department of Labor reported the Nation’s unemployment rate is at a 26-year high of 9.5%. Analysts predicted there would be approximately 350,000 jobs lost in the month of June but the actual number ended up being around 433,000.

Let’s face it - these statistics are extremely disturbing. But the reality is, even in the better times, no job is 100% secure. I am not telling you this to create stomach ulcers for you or to cause you to have sleepless nights. There are things you can do to prepare yourself in case you become one of the 4.4 million people across the US without work.

1. If you have a job right now keep it. Go out of your way to work as hard as you can and make sure you are utilizing your time wisely. Learn to wear many hats and make yourself invaluable. Career development is also key. Many organizations have cut this out of their budget so invest in yourself. It will also show your boss you’re going the extra mile.

2. Get your resume up-to-date and get it out there. If you are concerned your current employer may see your resume posted on online job boards then list it confidentially. Make sure your contact information is not on the resume itself or your current place of employment. You may want to list your current job title but list the organization as confidential. If your boss is smart I bet his/her resume is online as well.

3. Network. I know you believe you are networking but are you really? Having a cocktail at a “networking event” for happy hour isn’t going to cut it. Call people you’ve met throughout your career: vendors, former clients, former colleagues, old classmates, family, friends and neighbors. Make sure these people know your skill set and your work ethics.

4. If an opportunity presents itself look into it. Just because you go on an interview doesn’t mean you’re getting married. Of course you will want to be discreet but if anything, it’s good practice for the interviewing process and who knows, it could mean a better job and more money.

5. Save your money. Although times are hard and it can be very difficult to put extra money aside right now try to have enough “emergency money” to last you for 5 – 6 months. Having this money to get you through troublesome times sure will make a job search much easier on you and your family.

6. Look into health benefit costs. Find out now what the cost for COBRA would be and then shop around to other carriers and see if a high deductable plan or an HMO such as Kaiser Permanente might be a better bet. Knowing the expense of health benefits will allow you to create an accurate budget when setting aside your “emergency money”.

Job searching is tough enough without the added stress of worrying about finances and insurance. Getting laid off is never easy but having your ducks in a row and being prepared sure will make a problematic situation just a bit less stressful. Doing these things doesn’t mean you’re planning on losing your job; it just means you will be better prepared for today’s new now.

About the Author
Michelle “Chelle” Shell has worked in management for over 14 years in positions ranging from recruitment to public relations. In her current role as Client Development Manager for Opportunity Knocks she assists national nonprofit organizations and recruitment agencies connect with talented, qualified nonprofit professionals and HR management solutions. Chelle is passionate about health related missions and is active in her transitioning neighborhood association as well as local tennis associations. She is also a Board Member of ANP, Atlanta Nonprofit Professionals.

For questions and/or comments for Chelle please click on “comments” below and start typing away. Many of you have the same concerns and this will allow you to read what others have to say as well as help the masses. And don’t worry, you don’t have to identify yourself if you would like to remain anonymous.