The length of a job search in the US has climbed to 39 weeks – almost 10 months – according to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal. That is the longest average unemployment period since the Labor Department started keeping track in 1948. Many economists suggest this may be the “new” normal for quite some time.
What have we learned from this past, lengthy economic downturn and jobless recovery? For one, we must be much more self-reliant and proactive – a term often used by Stephen R. Covey. But what does this really mean? Its not simply reacting to events that occur, but having a plan based on your own intelligence of what is going on around you – and taking action.
Almost everyone is susceptible to losing his or her job. Even companies doing remarkably well can be acquired by another company, with the resulting merger of workforces and redundant positions slashed. Since you now know it takes an average of almost 10 months to find a new job, you would be wise to start stashing away savings to cover 10 months of living expenses to sustain you during any period of a new job search.My recently published book, 5 Necessary Skills to Keep Your Career on Track, delves into proactivity and recognizing what is going in your work environment. You have to constantly look for signs indicating your standing in the eyes of your employer – and if its taking a negative turn, do something to correct it if possible. What about your companys competitiveness: are they profitable? Innovative? Or in a dying industry? Are you learning and progressing or is it a repressive, even hostile work environment? These are questions you will need to answer – but one thing is certain, the dumbest thing you can do is wait for the ax to fall, if you believe you are in jeopardy of having your job phased out.
You should always have an updated resume and maintain a current profile on sites like LinkedIn, which is where many recruiters begin their searches these days. Everyone needs to be networked with friends, current and former colleagues, extended family, and classmates because you will eventually need their assistance to help you find new positions – but never (the key to effective networking) before asking what you can do to help them first.
Being proactive is recognizing that your company is losing money or outgunned by its competitors; your responsibilities or number of direct reports are being reduced or youve been passed over for promotions; and your position could be in danger – so you immediately begin your search for a new job. Why not let your current job fund your search, as long as you are completing all of your assigned tasks to the best of your ability. The cardinal rules, however, are never use your company email, telephone, or work hours for your job search. And never tell anyone in your company you are looking elsewhere, because no matter how much you trust him or her word will get out. Dont give your employer a reason to boot you out the door. Wouldnt it be great to have 4 or 5 months of your job search completed rather than the long average search time others are now enduring?
Its always easier to keep an existing job than to land a new one. It is up to you to know your standing in your company by maintaining good communication with your boss and co-workers. Volunteer for new assignments and project teams to gain exposure in other departments. Become the go-to person in your company (internal networking) and you can ask for reciprocal assistance when you need it – and learn about new opportunities or promotions before they are posted.
If you have lost your job, check out my new book with 6 steps to hurry the new job process along, resumes, cover letters, and using social media to find jobs.
Richard S. Pearson is the Author of 5 Necessary Skills to Keep Your Career on Track 2nd Edition, now available on Amazon and Kindle. It features using social media to find jobs. He has held vice-president positions with four multibillion dollar travel industry companies and three Internet early stage companies. He has a BA degree from Regis University in Organizational Development. His experience has given him a unique perspective on how to navigate the organizational structures of both large and small companies. He has hired and trained hundreds of employees from frontline salespeople to vice presidents, and coached many through their careers. He is currently working on facilitating the large increase of travel between the US and China, which is taking place. http://www.5necessaryskills.com
