In today's economy new opportunities aren't as plentiful as they've been in the past, leaving many employees to sit it out and hope for the best from their current employers.
That's a dangerous strategy to follow. Witness these headlines marking the worsening job market:
- Motorola layoffs reach 10,000 mark
- Analysts see 200,000 banking industry layoffs
- Dell closing plant as part of 8,800 layoffs
To avoid being laid off and having to start all over, consider seeking a lateral move or even a job promotion within your current company. It's easier than you think.
Because internal promotions and lateral moves involve individuals that are already known entities, the key is to come prepared with proof of past job performance and answers to any objections that might be made. This process of rating one's worth in terms of the company's bottom line should begin the very first day on a new job and continue until a promotion is offered or a lateral move requested.
Of course, most of us don't operate that way, and even if you're getting into the game late, you can still do the following to promote your cause.
1. Make detailed records of your job performance to justify a promotion.
No matter how fair an employer tries to be, they don't have the same vested interest as you in personal career progression. What's more, they have many staff to consider, while your focus is understandably personal in nature.
Therefore, don't assume that an employer will recall the good you've done for the company. Make detailed records of past projects, ideas, and successes in which you were directly involved. Quantify all accomplishments with dollar figures or percentages and time periods. Specify what you've done to improve work performance, whether that involves continuing education or learning a new technology.
In other words, prove your worth on paper and be certain to provide copies to those involved in the interview process. Once the interview begins, be prepared to speak about what you've already written down. While everyone else is fleeing the 'sinking ship', you can be the one who will stay and take charge.
2. Create a proposal of how you can contribute to the company in a lateral move.
If you want to avoid being laid off, be prepared to state how your contributions will benefit the company.
Detail in writing (and verbally, when appropriate) your transferable skills and what a good fit you would be with the new department. No company will move an employee from one area to another if major training or adjustments have to be made.
3. Overcome knee-jerk objections.
Few managers like to absorb a contracting department's employees. Unless the new supervisor is aware of how you can contribute to the department's and company's bottom line, you won't be seriously considered.
The key is to always be prepared, and be proactive about what you have done. Additionally, presentation is everything. When providing details about your accomplishments and qualifications, be certain that your work is flawless, easy to navigate, and showcases your talents.
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