Tips to Keep You on the A-List at Work

It’s not a cliché: talented people really are a company’s best asset. In tough times, employers keep the staff who perform well, self-manage, and contribute more than the minimum required by the job.

If you’ve been a good employee up until now, here are some tips to place you in the top-performer category and to reduce the likelihood that you end up on a pink-slip list.  
 

Step 1: Gather Intelligence
 

It’s easy to get carried away by doom-and-gloom reporting. Instead of reacting to rumors, learn the facts about the state of your industry and your company. Keeping up with industry news also shows your employer that you’re engaged in the company and its future.

• Read industry trade magazines.
• If your company is publicly traded, read stock analysts’ research reports. A publicly traded company has a stock exchange ticker symbol; for example, Sears has the ticker symbol SHLD. Type this symbol into financial sites such as yahoofinance.com and look for analyst reports and other financial information that’s public record.
• Learn about similar companies in your industry that are doing innovative things and explore whether your company can do something similar.
• Check in with your local Chamber of Commerce — network at local Chamber events and be a good ambassador for your company.
• Join a professional organization in your field as a representative of your company.
• Consider obtaining a professional certification or pursuing further education.

Step 2: Make Yourself Indispensable
 

Employers rarely make a random selection of which employees will be laid off. They know who adds value to the organization and who doesn’t, which jobs are important, and which can be combined or eliminated.

During the layoff process, employers focus on the skills they need to keep moving the company forward. They look for employees who add value to the organization. Even if you’ve been an exemplary employee in the role you were hired to do, companies in crisis are looking for those with the skills and vision to bring the company back into profitability, not just to do an assigned job in the short term.

Explore what more you can offer your manager and the company as a whole. If you have untapped talents, say so and offer them.