本文发表在 rolia.net 枫下论坛AFP - Career Development: Six Tips for Survival
What are smart people doing to stay afloat?
By Philip H. Grantham


In these uncertain times, companies in all sectors are downsizing at unprecedented rates. Because the finance function is usually one of the last departments to take major hits, you may be spared the axe. However, until the economy has shown signs of turning the corner, we are all vulnerable. So what are the smart people doing to stay afloat?

We have compiled a few tips that may come in handy if you believe that your position is in jeopardy.

Do an honest appraisal: The best thing you can do is to be ahead of the curve. Analyze your current position within your company, and your company’s competitive and financial posture. A realistic appraisal should give you insights as to your vulnerability, and act accordingly.

Network, network, network: People who actively manage their careers know this instinctively: you need to increase your visibility through every means at your command. Attend AFP meetings, become active in your state CPA associations, post your resume on FENG and other sites frequented by recruiters, write a blog.

Be a part of the solution: Many companies create task forces to deal with chronic business issues in times of crisis. Do what you can to get named to one or more task forces working to come up with solutions. You need to be associated with projects or functions that are widely perceived as mission-critical.

Look for ways to add value: Build into your daily routine time to come up with ideas for how the company can either improve its top line, or reduce expenses. Utilize your internal network to promote those suggestions so that you get noticed for having skills and attributes that ensure that you are “a keeper”.

Add a new skill: Just because you are a budgeting genius, you should think about becoming proficient in another discipline—e.g., cost-accounting, financial reporting, etc.
When the powers that be decide to eliminate positions, you may be spared because you have cross-functional expertise. Having an extra skill might make you employable in another group or geographic location within the company.

Alter the value proposition: In many situations, it is obvious that the company will be in a restructure mode sooner or later. If you are feeling particularly vulnerable, you might consider offering to resign and become a contractor, charging based on project completion. Changing your status will probably result in a significant loss of income, but may enable to you to stay involved with your employer until you either get re-hired or another full-time opportunity presents itself.

At the end of the day, in spite of your best efforts, you may not avoid being laid off. While this will undoubtedly be a humbling experience, look at it as an opportunity for growth. While you will of course need to put most of your energies into identifying your next career opportunity, take advantage of the downtime to nurture yourself: take up a new hobby, go back to school, take the trip you have always intended to take. Keep a positive outlook: with perseverance, you will find the right next professional challenge.更多精彩文章及讨论，请光临枫下论坛 rolia.net