How to Increase Job Security

Job security is something that is never guaranteed, and sometimes the loss of a job can happen out of the blue. Many businesses are outsourcing jobs and trimming costs whenever possible. Examine the security of a current job and take steps to ensure the continuation of a steady paycheck. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Examine the requirements and qualifications of the current job. Do your skills and qualifications match up with the job? If there are gaps, seek out solutions to obtain the knowledge and skills needed.

2. Check the education requirements of the current job. Is your education in line with the job requirments? If a degree is required, plan to return to school to get your degree if you don't already have it. Your employer may even cover a portion of the tuition expense as a benefit of employment.

3. Ask your supervisor about extra assignments or duties that you can do. Putting forth extra effort in the current job will help you develop a reputation as a person who is willing to go the extra mile.

4. Display a positive attitude. Be the person that everyone wants to work with. Find new ways to interact with as many people as you can each day.

5. Offer to take a salary cut if the company is cutting back or experiencing a severe budget crisis. Being proactive about a salary cut may save the job from being cut entirely.

6. Stay late, and put in extra effort where needed. Hopefully, the extra effort will be noticed by upper management and noted on feedback forms.

7. Connect with the co-workers and management by participating in activities outside of the job. Attend company parties, golf outings, and get to know "the other side" of the company employees. Having a relationship with employees outside of the daily work life helps build stronger relationships on the work site.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid office gossip when rumors start flying.