How to Keep From Getting Laid Off

Although the worst of the recession is probably over, the spectre of finding a pink slip on your desk still looms for many workers. Here's what you can do to reduce the chances that you'll become another workplace casualty.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Be sure that your superiors know what a great job you're doing. Volunteer to take on projects and work overtime. Those who are silent may only be noticed when the layoff list is created. Make it a point to become personally known to senior office personnel if possible.

2. Proactively share any ideas you have that can generate additional revenue, regardless of who gets the credit. This is the time to help the company make more money, not worry about rewards. Your supervisors may also remember what you did later (when they can afford to do something about it). Those who can bring new business into a company will be the last ones to go. Any ideas that can save your company money will be welcomed as well.

3. Make sure that you're viewed in a positive light by both your supervisors and coworkers. If you are perceived as a source of encouragement to those around you, then management may be willing to keep you on as a morale booster. Complainers often get cut loose just because of their attitudes.

4. Keep learning and expanding your sphere of expertise. Employees who go back to school to get a higher degree related to their jobs show that they are serious about their work and can be viewed as an investment in the future of the company.

5. If all else fails, be willing to take a cut in pay in order to keep your job. Don't wait until you find a pink slip on your desk before taking this tactic; sit down with your boss and pitch him a proposal for more work for less pay. Of course this isn't a fun alternative, but it may still beat unemployment.