Top 7 Ways to Keep Your Job

If you’ve watched the news, you know many companies are laying off employees in this unstable economy.  That has many people nervous that their job could be cut next.  Would you believe something as simple as your body language or enthusiasm at work could determine whether you stay or go?  We talked with career counselors and found the top seven things you can do to keep your job.

7.  Volunteer for projects.  Said Julie Newman, Director of Career Development at Clemson University, “There will be projects that nobody wants to do.  Now is the time to step up to the plate.“

6.  Show energy and enthusiasm.  Use eye contact and sit forward in your chair in meetings.  Said Kathy McKinzie with Spartanburg Community College, “Its important to demonstrate to that employer that you want to be here.  Body language is a big part of that.“

5.  Take a class or read up on a new skill that can make you more valuable.

4.  Take an interest in your boss’s interests or pay them a compliment on their work.  Just don’t over do it.  Explained McKinzie, “Without getting too personal, you don’t want to compliment them on something that might be too personal.“

3.  Contribute some of your extra time and make sure it’s noted with an email during off hours.  Said Newman, “Now’s the time to come up with ways the company can save money, opportunities for you to shine.“

2.  Take notes when you’re assigned a task. 

1.  Take credit for your successes.  Said Newman, “In staff meetings, talk about some projects you’ve completed or some things you’re working on.“

Experts say be sure to do these things for all the managers you work with.  That way if your boss is let go, others will be aware of your strengths.

Web Resources
What not to include in a resume
DON’T include personal information such as:
• Your age
• Your marital status
• Your children’s ages
• Your problems finding a job
• Hard-luck stories
• How difficult your life is
DON’T include details about your physical shortcomings such as:
• Any disabilities
• You can’t drive
• You’ve survived some trauma
• How you’ve been victimized
DON’T include details that show you in a bad light such as:
• Any type of negativity
• Self-ridicule
• That you’ve never had a job before
DON’T include your height, weight or photo (unless this information is specifically requested by a prospective employer).
DON’T ramble on about how much you used to make in your past jobs.
DON’T mention family members and their employment or interests.
These are some of the important points you should always keep in front of you.

—From http://www.write-a-resume.org

Learn more about how to write a resume

How to keep your job in an economic slowdown

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