How To Lessen The Chances Of Becoming Unemployed?
Today the world is returning to normalcy after the pandemic, but the job market is still facing challenges. The world economy had declined due to the lockdown, followed by no salary increments, pay cuts, delayed payments, layoffs, company shutdowns, etc. Although the situation has improved over time, some countries are undergoing a recession, causing companies to lay off their human resources.
This article is about a few of the key pointers which can be helpful to be in a better position to combat uncertain situations such as but not limited to layoff and lower the chances of becoming unemployed.
Continuous Learning
It is essential to up-skill yourself according to the latest job requirements. Learning new skills of interest helps you in two ways. One, it can be an added advantage in the current job and improve your performance if it is a complementary skill. And two, you can perform multiple jobs and not be dependent on one kind of job. The company can either change your department or, in case of a layoff, you can look for job opportunities, start freelancing or own a venture based on other skills too. Hence, make your skills your strength and drive your career path through tough times.
Performance Improvement
Unlike the olden days today, performance ratings decide your present and future. A zeal to excel in performance at work driven by a competitive spirit, focusing on personal and career growth, is crucial and more beneficial in the long run. Keeping a tap on self-performance, analysing it, implementing necessary actions to improve it and maintaining consistency can help create a self-brand and develop self-worth. Doing so may allow you to choose your career paths instead of organisations deciding whether to continue your employment or lay you off.
Exploring new opportunities
Often candidates work in the same company for longer than the ideal duration (2-3 years). They get into a comfort zone, and exploring new opportunities with other companies becomes difficult. The decision to work in the same company is also about emotional bonding and the resultant belief that the company would always support them in difficult situations if they work going out of the way. The decision limits their competitiveness compared to those who are more agile in learning, exploring and growing. Hence taking up a new job opportunity may help you grow professionally, personally and financially. Remember, CHANGE IS ESSENTIAL FOR GROWTH!
Building professional network
Professional networking through online or offline channels helps identify and explore new prospects. Being active in the professional circle allows you to connect to other professionals from your work domain, get recommended for your skills, get job interview leads and references, exchange relevant knowledge, important information, news & trends, etc. Being Professionally Social is a need of an hour. It helps you get recognised and makes you aware of the competitive environment around you, so you plan your actions accordingly.
Mental Health
Last but not least! If only mental health is good, you can think and focus on your career targets and life plans. Sometimes it is difficult to maintain a work-life balance due to work demands and deadlines, especially in India. But dedicating 30 mins to 1 hour a day for oneself is crucial. Meditation, light exercises, relaxing hobbies or activities, etc., can help control stress. Spending some time away from the screens (laptop, computer system, or mobile) but with friends & family or observing the beauty of mother nature is an excellent therapy to relax and rejuvenate mentally and physically. Good health is an elementary necessity.
Being determined, self-reliant, multi-skilled, and a good performer focused on growth and survival allows you to depend on and be confident about your abilities in situations of crisis, uncertainties or recession. Patience and perseverance is the ultimate key!
