JOB SPECIAL ...........IS YOUR JOB SAFE?

IS YOUR JOB SAFE?





Find out what you can do to avoid being sacked.

People are usually shocked when they are told to go, but in many cases, the writing would have been on the wall. It is just that employees fail to read these and take corrective measures. We look at some such signs.

YOU HAVEN'T LEARNT ANY NEW SKILL

An employee needs to con stantly upskill himself to stay ahead. This has become easier with the launch of massive open online courses (MOOCs).These are cheap, some even free, and one can study after work. Make sure your boss knows when you sign up.

YOU DON'T GET ALONG WITH CO-WORKERS

Interpersonal skills are critical at the workplace. Your ascent in the firm depends 20% on aptitude and 80% on attitude.The same is true when it comes to sacking. Even if you are an above average performer but don't get along well with coworkers, you could be the first one to be sacked. So, mend fences before it's too late.

YOU ARE DOING LESS WORK

If you are doing less work than you did last year, there is reason to worry. More work coming your way is an indication that your company has faith in your abilities. On the other hand, less work could mean that the individual is not really required. Volunteering requires a pro-active approach.So, don't wait for someone to call for help, search for them.

YOUR PAY HIKE WAS BELOW AVERAGE

Your annual salary increment says a lot about how much your company loves you. If you get a below average hike, you are obviously not in the good books.There is a bigger danger that you may be laid off if the company starts downsizing. The best way to deal with this is to talk to your boss. Accept the blame but resolve to work harder.

YOU ARE NOT CONSULTED

If nobody asks for your opinion and you are kept in the dark about what's going on, your ideas are not considered useful. Instead of wallowing in self pity, understand the reasons why you are being sidelined and then approach your boss for feedback. Before you do it, do a dry run. Identify a coworker who can honestly and objectively comment on your performance and offer constructive criticism.

YOU DON'T PERFORM CORE FUNCTIONS

Jobs in divisions that are not related to the core function of the company are particularly at risk. Simply put, only if your work is critical for the survival of the business, your job is safe.Information flow is very important to know what is going on.But if you are in a peripheral role, you will have to work extra hard to be in the loop.

YOUR COMPANY IS FACING PROBLEMS

The same problem can manifest at a broader level. If your company is facing financial pressure, it may cut down on certain non-essential roles.

ET21DEC15