Keep your job, get a raise?
Many people are feeling the pain of this recession, and even those keeping their jobs - know someone who has lost theirs. Being laid off is serious business. Now, more than ever, you have to take control of your career and accept responsibility for the things you can do to improve your situation, or keep out of the crosshairs of being laid off. The danger is not just being laid off, but the possibility of other actions - like having your work time decreased, or a reduction in salary, or your salary staying flat. Like most things in this world, you don't have total control, but you do have responsibility - for understanding and accepting the forces at work, and looking out for yourself. Keep in mind -
1. You are employed because you provide some value to your company. During tough econonic times, the company must cut costs, and the largest costs are often people. Don't take it personally, and while its understandable to be emotional, don't let emotions guide your attitude at work or decision making.
2. Your employment there, and salary, are based on your percieved value to the company. Companies expect a certain function to be performed and associate a value to that function (ie.. salary bands). You may - or may not - get an objective look from management. Don't worry about that so much, it is out of your control.
3. Most important! You must be a high-performer, that is, you must be incredible at your job. If it's something where you have natural talents - great - if not, get training or help to get better. Do it on your own if your company won't invest. Then, your excellence must be recognized by people above you, expecially those in high places.
Being great, and having that greatness recognized, are two different things. There are many more modest people in the world - than braggarts. It needs to be common knowledge at your workplace that you are extremely talented and the company is making (or saving - saving is same as making) money by you being there. This is done by actions and exceptional performance. Of course, bragging or self-promotion is counterproductive.
4. Maybe sad but true, but - who you know - matters. It helps to have relationships with higher-ups in the company, but don't be a sycophant. That said - probably doesn't help here, because either you have those relationships already or not.
5. Your job, is not a personal favor given to you by the company. Just as your working for them is not a personal favor to them. It is a partnership that is expected to benefit both parties. Should that relationship end, especially when its unexpected and not a result of performance (ie.. you spit at a customer) - as in layoffs during a recession - it is difficult and unfortunate, however its just business. For whatever you do for a living - there are thousands or even millions of opportunities to work somewhere else. More when the economy rebounds. The odds are in your favor. Don't forget that.
