How to remain gainfully employed

Let’s face it, we're over hearing about how the world has gone to hell in a handbag, we're sick of listening to the unemployed stats every week and we've had it up to our eyeballs with tales of doom and gloom.

Yet, while the indications show things are on the up, we’re not out of the woods yet and you could still face changes in your workplace. So, here are some handy tips to ensure you do your very best to hold on to your job (and that handbag).

1. Outside the square
Managers and company owners like staff members who think outside the square and use initiative to add value to the company. If this means sacrificing some of your personal time to stay behind and finish that huge sales pitch, then do it. You may not be rewarded with money for working extra hours, but you may just get a pat on the back for your extra contributions.

2. Celebrate your achievements
Let’s face it, no-one is going to toot your trumpet, so you need to toot it yourself. If you have worked extra hard and done something amazing that is going to benefit the company in a positive way, speak up about it. Whether it’s closing the deal with a big client, or you finished that fantastic piece of carpentry, show your managers and your boss what you have achieved.

3. Up skill
You might be skilled in a certain area, but now is the time to start thinking outside the square. Learn computer skills, or a special technique for building. This way you offer your company more skills and in turn they can come to you with more work.

4. Step up to the plate
When a manager asks for someone to do a certain task, put your hand up. This also comes back to going the extra mile. Even if that task is out of your way still do it and always say to yourself “Yes I can do this, and I’m going to do this to the best of my abilities”. If you start putting your hand up for things your managers will recognise this and will start coming to you with jobs and tasks to do.

5. Get feedback
Sure managers can be scary, but now is the time you need to talk to them about feedback, whether it’s good feedback or constructive criticism. This will enable you to see where you can grow in your job and better yourself so you become more of an asset to the company.

6. Smile and have a positive attitude
Sometimes it’s hard to get motivated in the mornings before work, but it’s not hard to smile. Start your day off on a positive note and that positive attitude will continue through your day and have a positive effect your work.

7. The little things
You might be in the tearoom grabbing your morning coffee and the owner of the company walks in. Offer to make a coffee for them. This might sound like you are trying to grease up, but in actual fact it’s the little things bosses remember. Always say good morning to your managers and use their name (and smile… even if you don’t like them all that much). If the kitchen is messy with dishes, put them in the dishwasher or give them a rinse. It’s the little things that also count.

8. Take pride in your self and in your workplace
If you are in a corporate environment make an effort to dress smart and present yourself in a way which will put the company in a good light. Try and keep your desk tidy (we all need a bit of ‘creative chaos’ in our lives however!). Try and stay as organised as possible.

9. Talk about your company in a positive light
Word travels quickly, especially words that aren’t so nice. Always talk about your workplace in a positive way. If you can’t say anything positive then don’t say anything at all.

10. Reality check
Although you might be doing everything you possibly can, you still might face redundancy. There are very talented people who are being laid off, and that could mean you too. If you are made redundant don’t take it personally, see if you can get a reference from your employers and keep a positive mind frame. The government has also introduced a policy that helps people who have been made redundant. Check out www.workandincome.govt.nz for more information. And most importantly always remember “Whenever a door slams in your face a window of opportunity always opens”.