Top Ten Tips on How to Help You Keep Your Job
Tip Number 10 - Know what is expected of you.
Almost every job changes or regularly evolves. The job that you started with a few years ago has probably changed. It's very easy to fall back into the idea that the job you started with, is the job that you currently have. As a step to improve your position and your job, it is highly suggested that you periodically talk to your boss or other superiors to find out what they really expect of you now and what they really want to see you accomplish in the future.
Tip Number 9 - Don’t gossip on the job.
It's always been a good idea not to gossip anywhere, either at home or away from home. From a practical point of view, doing this an easy way to lose your job. First of all, if others hear you speaking that way, you give him the impression that you have very little in the way of values. If he/she sees you sitting around gossiping about other people, it will convey a certain attitude about you not to mention that you seem to have time on your hands. It is also possible that the one you are criticizing or complaining about could wind up being your next new boss. It goes without saying that in today’s age, one never wants to put any such discussion into email. This creates a “paper trail” which is stored on the company’s server and can be forwarded to others with your identify ascribed to it. So, think carefully before putting anything into email. While you should not be gossiping, you should not be totally oblivious to “office politics”. Office politics indeed matter and you should not be “living under a rock”. Be aware of changes in management, policy, and developments in that particular business sector.
Tip Number 8 - Have a positive attitude.
You don't want to give people with whom or for whom you work, the impression that the only reason that you are there at the job is to collect your paycheck. You don't want to be viewed as an unmotivated person with a negative work ethic. It is quite possible that when staff reductions are to be made, management may first look at those with a negative attitude, especially if the sentiment is polluting the work atmosphere. Don’t send the message to the effect that since you don't like to be there anyway, you will accept a layoff.
Tip Number 7 - Update your skill set.
You can always make time to research recent developments in your field, read a book, read a journal, or take a class, in order to improve your skill set. Some companies offer access to training classes for those who ask as well as tuition reimbursement for courses (and degrees) which are relevant to the job. Keep current with technology in general and specifically that which relates to your field. Don’t create an image that you are “old school” or anachronistic. The more value you are to your employer, the more likely you are to keep your job. Keeping current demonstrates a level of enthusiasm and desire to do well in your job. Obviously, if you do well, so does your organization.
Tip Number 6 – If possible, take on more work or responsibility.
It also reflects well on you if you take on additional responsibility or at least offer to do so. This might mean taking work home, staying after hours. Doing this can help convey the impression that you are indispensable. If you send a message things can't get done without you, you're less likely to be subject to a staff reduction. The opposite of this is of course is to “punch the clock”, arriving no earlier than required and not staying a minute after that.
Tip Number 5 – Network.
There is the old adage it's not what you know, but who you know. This is relevant as your next boss may end up being a coworker, a friend of yours, or even a competitor. Whenever possible, it is key that you build as many positive relationships with others. In the world of employment, some job openings will not be advertised publically. So, knowing many different types of people lots of people will improve your chances of finding that next job. Joining a relevant professional organization in your field and attending their scheduled events is a great way to stay current with current developments, as well as people and job opportunities.
Tip Number 4 - Avoid all things personal at work.
Limit personal phone calls and e-mails at work during work hours. Your use of these channels can and will be tracked. Using company tools and time for personal benefit will not bode well. If your supervisor hears that you are making personal calls, sending personal emails, surfing the Internet, or doing online shopping do not reflect very well on you as an employee. It goes without saying that you should not be running any side businesses or ventures on work time or on your office work station.
Tip Number 3 - Remain active.
Take notes when you're in a meeting or on the phone. Keep a record of what you do. Occasionally share your notes with your boss. Face time is very important. Obviously, if the your boss only sees you around the water cooler, that is not a very good sign; your boss should also see you working. The boss should see you coming in early and/or staying late. It is very helpful to document what you have accomplished. It is helpful to be able to relate to your boss (either during performance reviews and at other time) what you did and accomplished on a given date.
Tip Number 2 - Relationships are critical.
Many of us who work in the professional world but prefer to maintain a distance on a personal level may think that is not important to recognize those with whom we work. While it may sound superficial, one should be aware of special events like birthdays or anniversaries that others celebrate and recognize them consistently and appropriately. It goes without saying that one must be not only respectful but pleasant to others in the workplace in order to to get ahead and keep one’s job.
Tip Number 1 – Don’t give your boss an excuse to let you go.
At minimum, you should follow the basic rules and protocols of the organization. Coming in late and/or leaving early does not look good. Missing deadlines or complaining do not cast you in a desirable light. If you have to leave early for any religious or family obligation, do this with the approval of management. If for religious observance, offer to make up the work and secure coverage for your work and responsibilities. And offer to do the same for others. While we may have our religious values and schedule which reasonable management will understand and accommodate. However, religion should not be an excuse for giving less than 100% to the organization while you are employed there. This goes for asking for time off, leaving early for religious observances. It is also important to identify what is an “absolute” observance and what is discretionary. Multiculturalism and flexibility are not excuses for attending every religious/social engagement. Planning in advance for things that are predictable and offering the organization “something in return” comes across more positively than perpetual last-minute requests. Try to play down any differences between yourself and others. Play up how you do fit in, and are an asset to the organization who wants to be there.