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Career Corner
Tips For Keeping Your Job During Uncertain Times

Mel Otero -- CNN recently reported that there are five people available for every open job. If you are employed and doing your best to stay that way, you have probably heard and understand the statistics. This is not a good time to be looking for a job. So, what can you do to keep your job during these uncertain times?

First, be sure you have realistic expectations and have your priorities straight. Unfortunately, there are always employees that seem to have their priorities confused. The chances are pretty good that you need a job; most of us do. This is not the time to quit a job or perform poorly because you're certain "something better" awaits you at the end of the rainbow. Give this some thought because you may get to the end of the rainbow and find not a pot of gold, but a long line at the unemployment office. In these uncertain times, be thankful you have a job and then consider how to stay employed. When the economy improves and the job picture improves, you can think about a job change. Meanwhile, stay employed during these uncertain times.

These are just a few tips that will help you keep your job:

1) Be a team player. No matter what position you hold, at some point you will need the support and cooperation of your co-workers. Keep that in mind when you have an opportunity to assist or support a co-worker. You can be sure that your supportive action will be observed by management. On the other hand, if you are unwilling to help and be part of the team, that little piece of information will travel to management even faster than a good deed!

2) Don't take personal calls or surf the Web at work. You are not being paid to conduct personal business at work. Wait for lunch time or a break if you need to make a call or check a Web site. Many office computers are now monitored by the IT Department. Sending your résumé, checking job sites, or visiting adult oriented Web sites from the computer at work places your job in jeopardy. You may be just one click away from the unemployment line. Remember that personal calls can be overheard by the wrong set of ears.

3) Focus on your assigned task or project. Having an assignment to complete gives you an opportunity to shine. Put your very best effort into every project and provide an excellent work product. This action will speak volumes on your behalf.

4) Be on time and avoid absences. Your boss is counting on each and every employee to be at work and on time. With so many companies cutting back on staff, each remaining employee needs to be fully engaged. If you are truly ill, of course you should stay home. However, this is not the time to take a "mental health day" and end up at the mall. You're counting on that next pay check, right? The company and the boss are counting on you.

Without a doubt, this list could be expanded. If you will simply use common sense and keep your priorities straight, your chance of staying employed during these uncertain times will certainly be improved.

Mel Otero, author, worked in management in the mortgage banking industry and title insurance industry for over 25 years. She has started Web sites and written articles to provide information, resources, and inspiration during this difficult economy. Mel loves to write, learn, and share experiences and information. Constantly researching and looking for helpful tools, her ultimate goal is making a positive difference in lives. For more, visit www.improveyourlifeandprosper.com. Build self confidence and establish long and short term goals.

© 2010 Mel Otero

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