The Hire Report® – Employment Outlook 2009

As the economy continues to take a downturn, more and more American jobs are at risk. In fact, the unemployment rate of 6.5% hit a 14-year high this October with 1.2million jobs lost in 2008 alone. But with all the cutbacks, what's the likelihood that you will face a layoff in the coming months? A new study shows that the majority of people fear the worst. One recent online poll reveals that three out of four people believe their organization is likely to issue layoffs in the next 12 months….and one in three people believe their job is at risk today.

For those who really want to secure their careers, or at least prepare appropriately for what may come, five simple and straightforward conversations can substantially increase confidence and serenity in these uncertain times.

1. Ask tenured co-workers about past practices -- How have layoffs been handled in the past? Is advance notice given? Are cutbacks across the board or targeted? How are the decisions made?
2. Clarify compensation surprises with HR – How is your company performing in 2008? Will the company be paying normal bonuses or annual raises this year?
3. Assess your general risk levels -- How likely is a layoff in your division or department? Middle level management personnel are the first to get axed. Cost center employees are usually next.
4. Assess your specific risk level -- Find out where you stand with your supervisor. What skills, job changes, projects or other actions would make you less dispensable?
5. Have a conversation with yourself -- What should you be doing now to prepare yourself to survive a layoff?
6. Update your resume -- The competition for jobs is fierce – Do you know how to network, interview and negotiate salary? Then consider hiring a career transition coach!

The best way to predict your future is to create it. Those who step up to these six crucial conversations skillfully put themselves in a much better position to create -- and control -- their own destiny.

Coach Mark